Nestled in the Ionian Sea, Kefalonia is a stunning Greek island that is a paradise for travelers. Its crystal-clear turquoise waters, picturesque villages, and spectacular natural scenery attract thousands of tourists each year. The island is famous for its beautiful beaches, rich history, and vibrant culture. However, there is much more to Kefalonia than meets the eye. If you’re looking to get off the beaten path and experience the island differently, then here are some unique activities to try on your Kefalonia holiday.
1. Explore the Melissani Cave
The Melissani Cave is located about 2 km from the town of Sami, and it is one of the most visited tourist attractions on the island. The cave has a subterranean lake that is surrounded by stunning stalactites and stalagmites. The natural light that enters from the roof creates a mesmerizing effect on the water, and it’s an excellent place to take photos. You can take a guided tour of the cave, which lasts around 30 minutes, and it’s a great way to experience the natural beauty of Kefalonia.
2. Go sea kayaking in Myrtos Beach
Myrtos Beach is one of the most famous beaches in Kefalonia, known for its crystal-clear waters and white pebbles. However, instead of lounging on the beach, try something different and go sea kayaking. You can explore the hidden bays and coves around the beach, and it’s an excellent way to get some exercise while enjoying the stunning scenery of the island.
3. Discover the hidden beaches of Kefalonia
Kefalonia has some of the most beautiful hidden beaches in the world, and they’re perfect for those looking to escape the crowds. One such beach is Petani Beach, located on the western coast of the island. It’s a pebble beach with crystal-clear waters, and it’s surrounded by steep cliffs. It’s an excellent place for swimming and snorkeling, and it’s a great way to experience the untouched beauty of Kefalonia.
4. Hike to the top of the Enos Mountain
Enos mountain is the tallest mountain in Kefalonia, standing at an impressive 1,628 meters. It’s located in the southern part of the island and is covered with dense forests of fir, cypress, and pine trees. Hiking to the top of the mountain is a challenging but rewarding experience. The views from the top are breathtaking, and you can see the entire island from above. It’s also an excellent place for stargazing, and you can witness a spectacular sunset from the summit.
5. Explore the underground lake at the Drogarati Cave
The Drogarati Cave is located near the village of Chaliotata, and it’s another unique attraction in Kefalonia. The cave has vast chambers with limestone formations and a beautiful underground lake. You can take a guided tour of the cave, which is around 45 minutes long, and it’s a fantastic way to experience the natural wonder of Kefalonia.
6. Visit the village of Fiskardo
Fiskardo is a charming village located on the northern tip of Kefalonia. The village has beautiful neoclassical buildings and a picturesque harbor. It’s also known for its excellent seafood restaurants, and it’s a great place to try some traditional Greek cuisine.
7. Take a boat trip around the island
A boat trip around the island is an excellent way to experience the different beaches and coastline of Kefalonia. You can book a guided tour or rent a boat and explore at your own pace. You can discover hidden coves and bays that are only accessible by boat, and it’s a great way to spend a day on the water.
8. Visit the Monasteries of Kefalonia
Kefalonia has several beautiful monasteries that are worth visiting. The Monastery of Agios Gerasimos is one of the most famous on the island, and it’s located near the town of Omala. The monastery is dedicated to the patron saint of the island, and it’s a place of pilgrimage for many Greeks. Another monastery worth visiting is the Monastery of Agios Andreas, which is located on the southern part of the island. It offers stunning views of the Ionian Sea, and it’s a peaceful place to visit.
9. Try wine tasting at the Robola Winery
The Robola Winery is located near the town of Fragata and is one of the most famous wineries in Kefalonia. The winery produces some of the best wines on the island, and you can take a tour of the vineyards and learn about the winemaking process. You can also try some of the wines and buy some bottles to take home as souvenirs.
10. Discover the Roman Villa at Skala
The Roman Villa at Skala is an ancient Roman villa that was built in the 2nd century AD. It was discovered in the 1940s and is now a popular tourist attraction. The villa has several well-preserved mosaics that depict scenes from Greek mythology. It’s an excellent place to visit if you’re interested in history and want to learn more about the island’s past.
FAQs
Q. What’s the best time to visit Kefalonia?
A. The peak season in Kefalonia is from June to August when the weather is warm, and the beaches are at their best. However, if you prefer fewer crowds and cooler temperatures, then May and September are also good times to visit.
Q. What’s the best way to get around Kefalonia?
A. The best way to get around Kefalonia is by car. You can rent a car from the airport or one of the many car rental companies on the island. Public transport is limited, and taxis can be expensive.
Q. Are there any water sports activities in Kefalonia?
A. Yes, there are several water sports activities in Kefalonia, including kayaking, snorkeling, scuba diving, and paddleboarding.
Q. Is Kefalonia a family-friendly destination?
A. Yes, Kefalonia is a family-friendly destination, and there are plenty of activities for kids, including visiting animal farms, water parks, and beaches with shallow water.
Q. What’s the currency in Kefalonia?
A. The currency in Kefalonia is the Euro.
Top 10 tourist attractions in Kefalonia
1. Myrtos Beach
2. Melissani Cave
3. Enos Mountain
4. Drogarati Cave
5. Fiskardo village
6. Boat trip around the island
7. Monastery of Agios Gerasimos
8. Robola Winery
9. Roman Villa at Skala
10. Petani Beach