O. Kefalonia. Holidays on the island of Kefalonia - what you need to know? Map of Kefalonia in Russian with cities

Kefalonia - the island of seafarers, an island of beaches where nymphs gather and miracles happen. The island got its name from the hero Cephalus from ancient Greek mythology.

Kefalonia is the largest island in the group of seven Ionian islands. It is located between the islands of Zakynthos and Lefkada almost in the center of the Ionian Sea. The area of ​​the island of Kefalonia is 671 square meters. km, and the length of its coastline stretches for 250 km.

Since May 2013 to the island of Kefalonia started for the first time direct weekly charter flights from Moscow, which together with the existing ones charters from St. Petersburg making the island of Kefalonia more accessible to tourists from Russia. Kefalonia is connected by air (30 minutes) and ferry (1.5 hours) connections.

Complex tours Zakynthos – Kefalonia are in particular demand for holidays on the islands of Greece, because you can fly to one island and fly back from your vacation from another. The islands complement each other, and the impressions from your tourist trip will be twice as great.

Holidays on the Island of Kefalonia in Greece.

At first glance, Kefalonia is a mountainous and harsh island. As you move along the serpentine road leading along the coast, landscapes of amazing fabulous beauty open up around every turn: a sea of ​​incredible blue, framed by rocky bays with beaches, and green islands of seaside villages. Vineyards, myrtle and olive groves with trembling leaves of trees emitting an almost metallic sound, as well as original coastal towns with yachts and small fishing boats moored at the embankments, complete the landscape picture of the island of Kefalonia.

The island of Kefalonia captivates travelers with grape valleys, slopes with cypress alleys and pine air. Kefalonia immerses tourists in an atmosphere of relaxation and gives joy! The hospitality and cordiality of the Greek residents towards the Russians proves that there is an invisible spiritual connection between the two countries.

Holidays on the island of Kefalonia are distinguished by their regularity and tranquility.

Cities and resorts about. Kefalonia.

The capital of the island of Kefalonia is city ​​of Argostoli. 10 km from the capital there is an international airport that receives flights from Athens and charter flights.

The city of Argostoli was rebuilt after the devastating earthquake of 1953 with a magnitude of 7.2 on the Richter scale. Today modern life is bustling here, and at night there is also a holiday “party” in discos, clubs and bars.

Patron of the Island of Kefalonia – Saint Gerasim, who lived as a hermit in the Katavotres cave 2.5 km from the monastery near Argostoli.

Ferry services operate from the main port of Argostoli, as well as Sami, Poros and Fiskado.

Sami is the second port of the island and the main gate for ferries from Italy, Patras, Astakos and Lefkas. Port Sami became the main filming location for the film “Captain Corelli’s Mandolin” with the participation of N. Cage and P. Cruz.

The main resort towns of the island of Kefalonia: Skala, Lixouri, Lassi.

The beach season on the island of Kefalonia lasts from May to mid-October. The highest summer temperature of +35C occurs in August.

Beaches on the island of Kefalonia are presented for every taste: from “wild” and secluded to noisy with developed tourist infrastructure.

The best beaches of Kefalonia island.

• Myrtos is the most beautiful and photographed white sand and pebble beach in Greece with great depth of sea. It is among the top 10 best beaches on the planet;
• Xi is a shallow beach with dense red sand, framed by limestone cliffs with healing blue clay;
• Katelios – long sandy beach;
• Makris Gialos and Platis Gialos (4 km from the capital Argostoli);
• Antisamos – near the port of Sami;
• Petani Beach;
• Skala Beach is a long sandy beach near the town of Skala.

More than 20 beaches in Kefalonia have their own names, many of which have been awarded the Blue Flag for cleanliness.

Hotels on the island Kefalonia.

Apartments and villas, small family hotels and 4* and 5* luxury hotels make up a significant part of the hotel map of the island of Kefalonia.

The best hotels for all categories of tourists: Cyprotel Kefalonia Garden Village 4*, Porto Scala Hotel Village 4*, Mediterranee 4*, Cephalonia Palace Hotel 4*, Utopia Resort & SPA 5*, Appolonion Resort & SPA 5*, White Rocks Hotel & Bungalows 5*.

Family holiday with children It’s better to spend it at the Ionian Sea Hotel and Aguapark 3*, where the SOLnechny Krug club has been created and animators-educators work.

Sights of the island of Kefalonia.

• Argostoli. Archaeological and ethnographic museums and an ancient multi-arch bridge;
• Mounts Enos (1627 m) and Rudi (1130 m) are the natural attractions of the island. They are covered with a relict species of dark green “black spruce” trees, which grows only here. The Enos mountain range is a national reserve with an area of ​​1973 hectares;
• The resort village and port of Agia Efimia is a holiday destination for diving and yachting enthusiasts;
• Lixouri. Jacob's Palace with a library, ruins of ancient Pali;
• Fiscardo is a fishing harbor with ancient architecture, the only one not damaged by the 1953 earthquake;
• Melissana is a cave on the lake, which can only be accessed from a boat;
• Drongarati Cave (House of the Dragon) is one of the longest descents at 44 meters, which ends in a cave hall with excellent acoustics, where concerts can be held. The cave fascinates with stalactites up to 300 meters long;
• Assoc. Venetian fortress from the 16th century;
• Kastro is the medieval capital of the island.

What to bring as a gift from the island of Kefalonia? Great mood, video and photos! Honey, Robola wine, Feta cheese, quince and almond sweets and olive oil.

The largest island of the group of seven Ionian islands is Kefalonia (Greece). It is located between the islands of Zakynthos and covers an area of ​​about 800 square meters. km. The highest point is Mount Big Soros (1628 m). The capital of the island is the city of Argostoli. The population of Kefalonia is about 35 thousand. The length of the coastline stretches for 250 km (you can see this by looking at the island of Kefalonia on a map of Greece). The island is widely known for its excellent beaches, magnificent nature, ancient architecture, shrines and unique natural caves.

History of the island

The island has been inhabited since the Paleolithic era. The first inhabitants who settled Cephalonia were the Lelegi tribes (15th century BC), they worshiped the king of the sea, Poseidon. During the Bronze Age, the ancient Greek peoples of the Tylevoi and Tafii lived here.

According to one version, the island of Kefalonia (Greece) received its name in honor of the mythological hero Kefal. Some historians associate the name of the island with the Cephalin family. Homer called the island Sami, but in his time it was still sparsely populated. Since the classical period, the island has been known by its current name.

In the Middle Ages, the island was part of the Byzantine Empire. Later it was captured by different peoples: Venetians, Turks and Normans. Since 1797, Kefalonia was under the protectorate of Venice, and later the island was occupied by the French. Under the influence of French revolutionaries, the local population overthrew the feudal system. Subsequently, Cephalonia became part of the so-called state of the 7 Ionian Islands. In 1864, all the Ionian Islands united with Greece.

Kefalonia, Greece Tours

Since 2013, the island of Kefalonia has become even more accessible to Russian residents thanks to the introduction of weekly charter flights from Moscow and St. Petersburg. It should be noted that complex tours Kefalonia-Zakynthos are also in great demand. Thus, you can fly to one island and fly home from another. Accordingly, you can get twice as many impressions.

Getting to know the island

At first glance, the island is mountainous and rugged. Nevertheless, like all of Greece, Kefalonia (the photos are simply impressive) does not lose its charm. While moving along the steep serpentine, landscapes of fabulous beauty open up: the azure sea, harmoniously outlined rocks, as well as green small islands of seaside villages. The landscape picture of the island is complemented by olive and myrtle groves with fluttering leaves, vineyards, and distinctive and different coastal towns. Snow-white yachts and fishing boats moored off the coast add a special flavor to Kafalonia.

All the islands of Greece are stunning with their extraordinary beauty. Kefalonia, of course, was no exception. This region captivates travelers with its fresh air with the scent of pine trees and the crystal surface of the sea. In general, a holiday in this place is calm and measured.

Capital of Kefalonia

The capital of the island is the city of Argostoli. Just 10 km from this locality there is an international airport that serves charter flights and flights from Athens. The region is located in a zone of increased seismic activity; in 1953, a devastating earthquake with a magnitude of 7 on the Richter scale was observed in Argostoli. As a result of the disaster, the city was seriously damaged. It had to literally be rebuilt from scratch. Now the capital is bustling with life, and at night numerous clubs, bars and discos light up their lights. The port of Argostoli has ferry connections with other cities in Greece.

The second port of the island is Sami. It is the main gateway for ferries coming from Italy, Astakos, Patras, Lefkada and other places.

Resort towns

The main resorts of Kefalonia are Luxouri, Skala, Lassi. The rock, in particular, is most favored by tourists from the UK. The city has about 30 hotels, 3 supermarkets, more than 10 bars and several dozen souvenir shops. Lassi and Luxouri are also famous for their vibrant nightlife and golden beaches.

The hottest weather in the region is observed in August - about 35 o C. There are beaches here for every taste - from secluded “wild” ones to very noisy ones with developed infrastructure.

Better beaches

• Myrtos Beach (Kefalonia). This beach is considered the hallmark of not only the island, but the whole of Greece. This is the most beautiful white pebble-sand beach in the country with great depth of sea. In addition, it is even included in the top 10 best beaches on the planet. Myrtos is well equipped, there are sun loungers with umbrellas, a team of lifeguards, and bars. It is located on the western coast of Kefalonia between the mountains of Kalos Oros and Agia Dinati. From the city of Assos it takes only 20 minutes to get there. However, buses are not allowed into the protected area. Despite its wide popularity and landscapes of incredible beauty, there are usually few tourists here. This is due to the inaccessibility of this place. Myrtos Beach (Kefalonia, Greece) has repeatedly been a springboard for filming. For example, some scenes from the film “Captain Corelli's Choice” were filmed here.
• Xi is a shallow beach with unique red dense sand. It is framed by limestone rocks with healing blue clay.
• Kaminia - sandy beach. It is located 34 km from the capital of Kafalonia. It is considered one of the longest beaches on the island.
• Skala Beach - located on the southern tip of the island in the town of the same name. It has an excellent layout, surrounded by picturesque hills and rocks.
• Antisamos is located near the port of Samos. It is considered a rather favorable place for sunbathing and swimming.

More than 20 beaches in the region have their own names, many of them have been awarded the Blue Flag. Overall, Kefalonia (Greece) is a great holiday destination from May to mid-October.

Island attractions

• The resort village of Agia Efimia is a favorite place for divers and yachting enthusiasts.
• Argostoli. Ethnographic and archaeological museum, as well as an ancient arched bridge.
• Luxuri. The ruins of ancient Pali and the Ipkovat Palace with a unique library.
• Mounts Roudi and Enos are natural attractions of the island of Kefalonia (Greece). These mountain ranges are covered with relict tree species that have a dark green color (the so-called black spruce).
• Assoc. Here you can visit a Venetian fortress dating back to the 16th century.
• Fiscado is a fishing village with ancient architecture. By the way, she was the only one not damaged by the 1953 earthquake.
• Drongarati Cave or House of the Dragon. One of its descents reaches 44 meters and ends in a cave hall with acoustic cancellation. Here you can admire the incredibly beautiful stalactites.
• Castro. The city was the capital of Kefalonia in the Middle Ages.

Shrines of Kefalonia

Having seen all of the above attractions on the island, you can continue excursions to Kefalonia’s shrines. There are two monasteries here - St. Andrew Myliapidias and St. Gerasimos. Both of these monasteries are female.

Saint Gerasim, who led a hermit's life in caves, is the patron saint of Kefalonia. The ascetic was born in 1506 in the city of Trikala (Peloponnese). After receiving his education, he began to travel throughout Greece and managed to visit Constantinople. On Mount Athos he began his monastic life in the Kapsala cave. Later he went to Jerusalem, where he served in the army for 12 years.

Desiring peace and solitude, the saint travels to the island of Zakif. And in 1555 he moved to Kefalonia, here he lived for five years in the Lassi cave near Argostoli (at this time a temple was built over it). From 1560 he moved to the Omala region, where he restored the chapel and built a convent with a sisterhood. He called it “New Jerusalem”.

A cave with a narrow entrance has survived to this day, where the saint lived for about 19 years. Gerasim died in 1579. His relics are in a glass shrine in the Church of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary. The monastery has three plane trees planted by Gerasim himself, 37 small wells and three springs. The saint is known for his ability to relieve obsession.

The monastery of St. Andrew Milapidias was founded in the Byzantine era. In 1264 it was transferred to the Latin Bishopric. A hundred years later it fell into decay and was revived only in 1579, when it was bought by three sisters - Leontia, Benedicta and Magdalene. They settle there, and soon the monastic community grows. In 1639, after a shipwreck, the Greek-Romanian princess Roxana ended up in the monastery. She made a huge property contribution to the monastery, but most importantly, the princess donated to the monastery the relics of St. Apostle Andrew the First-Called from Mount Athos. The monastery also houses a museum with rare ancient icons and relics.

Phenomenal phenomenon

A rather unique phenomenon occurs in the village of Markopoulo. On the day of the Dormition of the Virgin Mary, an incredible number of people with small crosses on their heads crawl there. They rush to the church, climb straight into its dome, and then crawl to the icon of the Virgin Mary. Amazingly, they do not leave it until the very end of the service. The local population reveres snakes as saints. Many consider this phenomenon a good omen.

Kefalonia Island, Greece. Hotels

Finally

Millions of tourists from all over the planet visit the Greek islands every year. Kefalonia attracts the eyes of travelers not only with its stunning nature, but also with the opportunity to engage in various sports. Here you can play tennis, basketball, go fishing or ride horses. Particularly adventurous guests can try their luck in the casino. Lovers will also love the resort, because the local beaches are considered the best throughout the Mediterranean.

Kefalonia is an island where miracles happen, or so the locals say. Quickly look at where Kefalonia is located on the map of Greece and pack your bags.

Kefalonia(Κεφαλονιά) or Cefallonia(Κεφαλλονιά) or Cefallinia(Κεφαλλήνια) is one of the islands of the Ionian archipelago, part of Greece.

Settlements

The towns of Kefalonia are clean, tidy and small enough to get around without any rush. If you want to come to this cozy corner to enjoy its picturesque views, you will not be disappointed. Lush forests, breathtaking mountains, dizzyingly high cliffs falling into the sparkling azure sea - this is what Kefalonia is all about. You can book a hotel in advance on a well-known website, and you can compare prices from different services. If you prefer to stay in private apartments, you can look at similar offers from local residents.

The cities here are very beautiful:

general information

The island has three name options: Kefalonia, Kefallonia, Kefallinia. You may also hear locals call it "Sephalonia". This is the name of the region, which also includes the island of Ithaca (Ithaca). Hence the name of the airport. The island is mostly known for being the location where the film Captain Corelli's Choice was filmed. However, souvenirs related to the film are not as common here as you might expect, even in Sami, the old port in the east of the island where the filming itself took place.

Languages ​​of the island

An impressive part of the island's population spends only the summer months in Kefalonia and lives abroad in the winter. The reason is simple - there are very few jobs on the island after the end of the tourist season (April - November). Therefore, there are a large number of Greeks on the island who speak with an American accent. English is used everywhere here. The exception is older people who speak only Greek. Many will also understand you if you speak Italian, as the island is historically closely related to the nation from the Apennine Peninsula. Try learning a greeting in Greek and you will receive an enthusiastic response.

How to get there

By plane

The main airport, Kefalonia International Airport, located near Argostoli and Lassi, is a typical, small island airport. In other words, if two planes arrive at an airport, it immediately becomes overcrowded. On Tuesday and Sunday, the airport is visited by the most people, and on both days there is real chaos here. Remember that the word "chaos" is of Greek origin, so just try to move through it. Despite this, the airport staff are very friendly and calm. Flights to mainland Greece are operated by Sky Express and Olympic Air. You can find out the prices for flights for your dates on various aggregator sites, or, for example,.

You can also arrive here by ferry from Italy, mainland Greece or another island (the main ports are Argostoli, Sami and Poros). KTEL also provides buses from Athens from the Kiffisou Street station to various points on the island (ferry included in the price).

Clue:

Kefalonia - the time is now

Hour difference:

Moscow 0

Kazan 0

Samara 1

Ekaterinburg 2

Novosibirsk 4

Vladivostok 7

When is the season? When is the best time to go

Kefalonia - weather by month

Clue:

Kefalonia - weather by month

Main attractions. What to see

The island has four peninsulas, as well as high mountains, which together create a stunning landscape. A series of earthquakes (the last one in the 70s) left little of the ancient buildings on the island, but the local architecture is practically no different from the architecture of the rest of Greece.

In the center of the island there are two noteworthy caves: Drogarati Cave

unfortunately lost a large number of stalactites and stalagmites (it is said that during the occupation of Greece by German troops during the Second World War, soldiers used them as targets for training their shooting skills) and Melissani (in reality an underground lake above which the earth collapsed during an earthquake), filled crystal clear blue water from underground rivers flowing under the entire island. Seeing them is an unforgettable experience.

Sami Beach (near the city of the same name) is also incredibly beautiful (blue water, white stones, mountains encircling a small bay), but there are always traffic jams around the beach. Myrtos Beach, to the west, is very popular but can get busy. It is known for its rather steep descent to depth (after 3 meters you will not feel the bottom), so it is not recommended for those who cannot swim. Be sure to bring sunblock as the beach is covered in white pebbles and the sun shines blindingly bright in high summer.

Not as amazing, but still good and not crowded beaches can be found in the south near Skala and the Lixouri peninsula to the west. Xi Beach, south of Lixouri, is an excellent spacious sandy beach where peace and tranquility reigns. Makris Gialos and Platis Gialos are two stunning beaches in Lassi but, as expected, often crowded. Petani beach on the Lixouri peninsula is also good, and on Antisamos, near Sami, some scenes for the film about Corelli were filmed. Kaminia Beach is a beautiful shallow beach between Anno Katelios and Skalla where you can spot a turtle!

The pier from which Mandras throws Pelagia into the sea in the film is located on Khorgota Beach.

If you want to take a boat trip, check out the one near Ithaca or the glass-bottom boat trip Captain Mackie.

The Roman villa, located in the vicinity of the Rock, with a mosaic floor, should be a must-see in your Kefalonia travel itinerary. Today, excavations in this place continue, and new finds make Viluu even more attractive to tourists.

Food. What to try

The Ionian Islands have their own culinary tradition, and the local cuisine differs from traditional Greek cuisine. She was not influenced in any way by Eastern culture, unlike Italian and Austrian. Since many Greeks moved to Kefalonia after the 1953 earthquake, Greek dishes can also be easily found here, sometimes even easier than traditional Kefalonia dishes.

The cuisine of Kefalonia is famous for its meat pie, which is served in several restaurants. This is more of a homemade farm dish than a modern one. Finding a good meat pie is not the easiest task, but at Captain's Table in Argostoli you will have perhaps the best opportunity to try this dish. The dishes served in many establishments are not bad, but they cannot be called spectacular. The menu in many places can be different Asking locals about the best places to eat is a good idea.

If you are in Argostoli, go to the big bakery opposite the harbor and get some small round cheese pies, they are delicious.

At the entrance to the Venetian Castle in Kastro there is an excellent tree-shaded restaurant/café with a very friendly owner (a Greek married to an Englishwoman). The homemade cakes here are very tasty.

In Poros there is a good tavern “Dionysos”, from which there is an excellent view of the island of Ithaca and the pier. In this place you can find one of the most delicious meat pies on the island (creatopita), as it is prepared according to the traditional Cephalonian recipe (contains up to three types of meat). They also serve squid, which is sun-dried before cooking. Despite this, the restaurant's signature dish is moussaka, even a small piece of which is filled with many flavors.

Beverages

Frappe is an instant cold coffee. Many people drink the drink. Inexpensive and refreshing.

Freddo cappuccino - cold cappuccino. Also very popular, like frappe, but stronger and less harmful to the stomach.

Ouzo is a Greek liqueur with anise flavor.

Mitos is a Greek light beer. Good for you if you've spent the whole day in the sun. In addition, the drink is quite inexpensive.

Orshad syrup is called sumanda here and is popular in Kefalonia.

Safety. What to watch out for

Kafelonia has a very low crime rate. However, be careful in busy areas, as tourists are the victims of most crimes. Traffic, as in general in Greece, can be too busy in the cities. The roads in the mountains are very winding, and some of them can only be driven by a four-wheel drive vehicle, but the roads are generally of high quality.

Watch your step; if the street is poorly lit, the sidewalks may be uneven.

You will rarely see a local police officer on a city street. They are mainly involved in issuing fines for speeding. You will need a translator if you contact them regarding insurance claims.

Things to do

In Agia Efimia you can rent a boat for a small fee and visit the untouched wild beaches that can only be reached from the sea.

In Kefalonia you will find several riding arenas. It is also possible to arrange a horseback ride into the mountains through ruined villages and ancient vineyards, where the roar of mountain goats and the cry of eagles are the only sounds to break the absolute silence. This trip is very interesting and is recommended to everyone, even in the middle of summer. To the west you can drive to the remote village of Ateras, and then take the road down to reach the small beach with the monastery of St. Spyridon.

Wildlife Sense, (+30) 26710 81285. This is a volunteer organization working with local authorities and environmental organizations that protects rare species of plants and animals through scientific research and awareness-raising of this problem to ordinary citizens.

The George and Mary Vergottis Foundation organizes world-class concerts of both national Greek and foreign music.

Diving Club, Agia Efimia, +30 26740 62006. The club provides a range of diving-related activities. These can be classes for beginners (no special knowledge is required) or courses to obtain a scuba diver certificate.

Motorcycle tours in Kafelonia, Karavomylos, +306942665034. Opening hours: 8:30-16:30. Motorcycle tours in Kafellonia lasting from 1 to 10 days. Accommodation provided. Follow the "secret" roads of Kafellonia, discover ancient paths and hidden valleys. Food, drinks, and protective equipment are included in the price.

Souvenirs. What to bring as a gift

Be sure to purchase wild thyme honey, its taste is incomparable, as well as local wine, Robola.

As you can guess, souvenirs are sold here in large quantities. Some good quality jewelry is sold at a low price; you are unlikely to be deceived, since the Greeks prefer to sell what they paid for.

Kefalonia is considered one of the most popular islands of the Ionian Sea, the length of its coastline is two hundred and fifty kilometers. The island gained real fame after the release of the film “Mandolin”, after which its attendance increased many times over.

The peak season is in the summer; local beaches are in no way inferior to exotic Asian countries.

The 1953 earthquake claimed the lives of a large number of people; many survivors were forced to leave the island, as they saw no way to restore the destroyed infrastructure.

Over time, all the settlements were rebuilt, the increasing number of tourists from year to year allows us to hope for the best even in not the best crisis years.

How to get to this part of Greece?

Kefalonia has long been in demand among tourists; the island is connected to the mainland by air and ferry lines.

The safest and fastest way of transportation is considered to be a direct flight from Athens; flights are carried out by Olympic Air and Sky Express.

In summer, routes to Corfu and Zakynthos are added to the main flights.

The main island airport is located near Lassi and Argostoli, and due to its fairly compact size, it seems crowded if there are two planes on it at the same time. The airport experiences the greatest load on Sunday and Tuesday; on these days, real chaos begins here.

Buses from Athens also run to Kefalonia; the journey takes much longer, but in seven hours it is an excellent opportunity to explore a large number of amazing places.

Ferries are another affordable means of transportation, with routes operating from Italy as well as mainland and island parts of Greece.

Tickets between the islands are sold at the ticket offices located next to the piers; they are not available for pre-sale; it is best to apply an hour before departure, when the ticket offices open.

Ferries transport vehicles and passengers; if there are always places for the latter, then if it is necessary to transport cars, you need to plan everything in advance and not put off buying a ticket until the last minute. The schedule depends on the season, you can view it on the Internet.

The best attractions in Kefalonia

One of the most famous attractions is considered Fortress of St. George, the first mention of which occurs in the 12th century.

The architectural structure was made in the shape of a polygon; it served as a refuge from invaders. Currently, all that remains are ruins, which tourists from all over the world come to see.

Fans of antiquity will be interested Venetian castle in the village of Assos, it hides the spirit of medieval wars and battles at the end of the 18th century. Here there were battles between the French and Russians.

You can feel peace and harmony in the island’s holy places; monasteries and churches display unique icons, altars and attributes for rituals.

In the capital Argostilione a must visit Historical and Archaeological Museums To fully explore the sights, it is recommended to rent a car.

The one formed as a result of the earthquake deserves special attention. Drogarati cave, it is located at a depth of sixty meters and excites the imagination of viewers with its unusual topography and excellent acoustics; sometimes concerts are held here.
In the medieval capital of Castro is located Venetian fortress b, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding area.

Read also: Kefalonia Island - history, cities, resorts, beaches, cuisine

Beaches of Kefalonia

Kefalonia has a large number of beaches with a unique atmosphere; it is quite difficult to give preference to just one. The following places are the most popular among tourists:

• Ammes located in the small village of Svoronata, the place is quite calm, the advantages include a sandy surface and a short distance from the airport.

• Antisamos
  located in a bay near the town of Sami, it is considered one of the most beautiful in Greece.

  Its popularity is explained by the picturesque landscapes, the slopes of the mountains almost come close to the water area, the beach is ideal for a relaxing holiday, this unique place gives you the opportunity to completely merge with nature and find harmony.

• Makris Gialos known for the most developed infrastructure.
  There are a large number of restaurants, snack bars and cafes here. Here you can rent sun loungers, umbrellas and other attributes of a beach holiday. Every year the beach receives the international quality mark Blue Flag.

• Platys Gialos
  It is also distinguished by its amenities and has a Blue Flag; it is often compared to the Riviera. located near Lixouri, its distinctive feature is sand of a unique yellow-red hue, reminiscent of Burgundy wine.

  Many vacationers smear themselves with local clay, which has healing properties. Due to the gentle slope to the water, the place is very popular among tourists with children; on the beach there are a large number of apartments, hotels, and cafes.

• Rock is one of the longest and widest beaches on the island; its unique location within the city provides quick access to all the achievements of civilization.

Kefalonia Island Hotels



Catalonia has been popular among tourists since ancient times; air and sea routes provide year-round communication between the mainland and island parts.

The island has many beaches, restaurants, hotels and a variety of attractions, making it an excellent place for families and youth. Many tourists come to the island because of its environmental friendliness; some beaches are marked with the Blue Flag.

The island of Kefalonia (Greece) is a wonderful holiday destination that will appeal to lovers of bright beaches and sunny resorts. It is located in the heart of the Ionian Sea and is the largest of the islands in this region.

The area of ​​Kefalonia is 800 square kilometers. On its territory there is the Enos mountain range, the highest point is 1628 m. The largest city is Argostoli, which is also the capital of the province of Kefalonia. The local population is only 40 thousand people.

Kefalonia is a fairly young resort in Greece. During World War II, it was heavily damaged by the attacks of the enemy army, and in 1953 there was an earthquake that destroyed everything that was built on the island. It was these events that caused infrastructure and tourism in Kelafonia to begin to develop only in the late 80s of the 20th century.

Island airport

There is an airport on the island, which is located not far from the capital of Kefalonia. Most often, planes land here from Athens, but the city also receives charter flights from many European countries. Travelers can get to the neighboring islands of Greece using ferries. In addition, this vehicle delivers residents to the Peloponnese coast, to the ports of Patras and Kylini.

Kefalonia is popular for its modernized areas, such as nightclubs, cafes and cinemas, but there are also quiet coastlines and beautiful mountains where the iron hand of progress has not yet reached. Holidays in Kefalonia will be an unforgettable trip for every tourist.

The best beaches in Kefalonia

The most popular attraction of the island is its coastline. Among the most beautiful, picturesque and clean beaches it is worth noting:

Assos Beach

Located in a small village of the same name, 40 km from the capital of the island. The Ionian Sea here is very calm, the water is clear and clean, blue. The beach is pebbly and quite long. There are no sun loungers or umbrellas here, but you can rent a boat and go on an exciting journey through bays that are inaccessible by other means of transport. There are restaurants and cafes in the immediate vicinity, and the village has an ancient castle with a panoramic view of the sea. Can be reached by car, a great place to relax with children.

Myrtos Beach

Kefalonia is the owner of one of the most popular and beautiful beaches in Greece - Myrtos. This is a real “pearl” of the island, which is the goal of every tourist to visit. The water here is azure, calm and clean, which is confirmed by the UNESCO Blue Flag, the sand is white, dotted with pebbles.

The distance from Argostoli (30 km) can be covered by car. The beach has a crescent shape, is surrounded by rocks, and is located at the foot of two mountains. Sun loungers and umbrellas are available for rent, and there are cafes and restaurants on the territory of Myrtos. The sea is deep.

Petani Beach

The length of the coastal strip is almost a kilometer; there are high cliffs on both sides. The water here is clear, even at a depth of several meters you can see what is happening at the bottom. The waves are quite strong; children cannot be left unattended here, as there is no shallow water.

Argostoli can be reached by car, the distance is only 20 km. Petani Beach is fully equipped - there are sun loungers, a bathroom, an outdoor shower and umbrellas on its territory. There is a cafe and two large taverns. There is a small parking lot nearby.

The sandy part of the island, located in the west. The capital of Kefalonia is 34 km away. This is one of the cleanest and longest beaches in Greece. The water is warm and clear, calm during daylight hours. Perfect for family holidays, the depth near the shore is less than a meter. You can get there by your own or public transport (to the village of Skala, then 10 minutes on foot), there is parking. On the beach there is a snack bar and cafe with soft drinks and fast food.

Antisamos

The shore and bottom are covered with white pebbles, the water is crystal clear, azure and warm. The beach stretches for 700 meters and is located 27 km from the capital of the island. It is stunningly beautiful from nature - there are hills with green vegetation all around, and the sea changes its color from blue to turquoise. Antisamos was awarded the UNESCO Blue Flag.

The beach can be reached by personal transport (parking is available) from the port of Sami. Suitable for families with children, there are all amenities, including a cafe, sun loungers, umbrellas and an outdoor shower.

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Sights and entertainment: what to do during your holiday

The best time to visit the island is summer. From April to October, life here is in full swing. It is at this time that you can enjoy the various entertainment that is offered on this Greek island.

Kefalonia is rich in both natural and man-made beauties. Here you can see picturesque landscapes and dive into mysterious caves, or have a blast at a club and spend time in an expensive restaurant. All travelers should pay attention to the attractions that are listed in every Kefalonia guidebook.

Drogarati Cave

Located 120 m above sea level, the limestone cave has been a victim of photo hunters and curious tourists for more than 20 years. Up to 800 people can be accommodated here at the same time, the total length of the territory accessible for passage is 95 meters. Thanks to its natural acoustics and large area, it often hosts concerts, mainly operatic and classical.

The entrance to the cave is safe and open all year round from morning to evening. There is high humidity inside, temperature – +18°C. There is parking and a souvenir shop nearby.

If you like historical sites, be sure to visit this place. The memorial is dedicated to the events of 1943 called the “Cefalonia Tragedy,” during which 10,000 Italian soldiers were killed when they refused to defect to Germany. This is a very important page in life for the inhabitants of the island, and for tourists it is an interesting place that allows you to get to know the culture of Kefalonia better.

Monastery of St. Gerasim

Local residents consider St. Gerasim the patron saint of the island and everyone who resides on it. That is why the nunnery named after him is the holiest and most revered place on the island of Kefalonia. It is located 8 km from the capital of the island, near Mount Ainos. The church is very beautiful both inside and outside.

Boat Tours

Since the coast is the main attraction of Kefalonia, the island’s residents have compiled over two dozen routes for tourists. Today, such excursions are the most popular among visitors to Kefalonia, as they allow you to see places that cannot be reached by other means of transport.

One of the most famous and visited boat tours is Captain Vangeli's Special Cruises. This is a day trip (about 7-8 hours) to Ithaca, Fiskardo or Zaknitos. The large, modern ship accommodates 40 tourists and a team of professionals who serve visitors and conduct excursions. There are several stops throughout the trip - be sure to visit picturesque caves, a monument to Odysseus, beaches, souvenir shops and cafes. In addition, the ship has a huge advantage - a glass bottom, which allows you to admire the view of underwater nature. This trip will appeal to both adults and children.

The price of such a full-day excursion averages 50-65 euros per person. The cost depends on the route and the company that provides the service.

For lovers of beautiful but extreme entertainment, Kefalonia is a paradise in Greece. Thousands of species of animals live in the waters of the island, many of which are rare or even listed in the Red Book.

To go diving in Kefalonia, it is best to contact special centers. They will offer suitable options for both beginners and professional athletes. Many clubs have modern dive boats that allow you to travel even through the mysterious caves of Kefalonia.

Weather and climate

On the island of Kefalonia, as throughout Greece, there are very hot summers, wet winters, warm spring and autumn. You can plan a vacation as early as May, at which time the air temperature rises above 21°C. The water in the sea warms up to +19°C - not fresh milk, but you can swim.

Holidays will be comfortable in the fall as well. Until mid-October, the island has warm seas (+23°C). True, the average number of rainy days in October is 8.

The quietest and most practical time to relax on the beach is May, June and September. The weather is already suitable, but there is no influx of tourists as in July and August. Prices during this period are slightly lower than in high season.

July-August are traditionally the hottest months. The average temperature during the day is +29-30°C, can reach +35°C, at night +24-25°C. You don’t have to leave the sea for hours; the water temperature of +26-27°C allows you to do this.

In winter, life on this Greek island comes to a standstill and it becomes quiet and cozy. The temperature rarely drops below 7⁰, there are very warm days when January and February are absolutely no different from April.

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What to try from food, prices

The famous coastline played a big role even in this area of ​​life. The main delicacies on the island are seafood, the preparation of which varies depending on the region and time of year. During your holiday in Kefalonia you must try the following dishes:

Captain Nicholas

The choice of food establishments on the island is large. The cost of meals in restaurants varies significantly: you can have lunch for two for 10 €, or dinner for 80 €.

For example, consider one of the high-rated middle-class establishments - Captain Nicolas (to enlarge the photo, click on it). The restaurant is in high demand among tourists. Located in the village of Lixouri on a site surrounded by trees and flowering plants with a beautiful view of the sea - . The staff here is attentive, and the owner communicates personally with visitors.

Fish and seafood are excellently prepared here, and they are worth ordering. The average bill is 20-25 € for two.

Among the rest, we can highlight the following establishments:

• Katelios Grill House in Kato Katelios;
• Erasmia to Petani - located on Penati beach;
• Kastro Cafe - near the castle of St. George, they serve excellent desserts for 4-5 €.

The island of Kefalonia (Greece) is a great place to relax. Here you will not only escape from everyday problems, bask in the bright sun and enjoy the turquoise waters, but also have fun at concerts, restaurants and ferries. Have a nice trip!

Infrastructure facilities mentioned in the article are marked on the map below.

Video from the island of Kefalonia.

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