Kefalonia is located in the Ionian Sea, and it is one of the most beautiful islands in Greece. Verdant nature, Italian-style towns and beaches with turquoise waters are waiting the visitor. Kefalonia is also a large island, where the points of interest are spread all over the place. From Fiskardo to Skala, the island is full of hidden coves, virgin bays and charming villages. Thus, a road trip is the best way to explore the island. If you rent a car in Kefalonia, these are the best places to visit and the top beaches to swim and sunbathe.
Best points of interest in Kefalonia
Fiskardo is on the northern side of Kefalonia, a wonderful settlement with colourful neoclassical houses, paved paths and an elegant atmosphere. Bars on the coastline, traditional Greek taverns, luxury hotels and elegant shops create an unforgettable scenery.
On the eastern side, is situated the capital of the island, Argostoli. Argostoli is the main centre of the island, offering the visitor numerous opportunities for food, shopping, accommodation and entertainment. The cobblestone coastal promenade with the bars and taverns is a must in this city, which gets crowded during summer. Very beautiful is also the Botanical Garden of Argostoli and the lighthouse, the trademark of the island.
Lixouri is the second largest town in Kefalonia, 32 km west of Argostoli. It is famous for its rich cultural tradition and hosts one of the oldest philharmonic schools in Greece. Neoclassical houses, old chapels and monasteries as well as beautiful streets and cozy shops create an amazing atmosphere.
Assos is a small village in a close distance to Fiskardo and Myrtos beach, on the northern side of Kefalonia. It is built amphitheatrically on an impressive cliff, full of pine trees, and strongly reminds of Italy. On the front of the village, you can swim in its stunning beach with the turquoise waters and the golden sand.
Sami is a small port with a lovely beach, where the crew of Captain's Corelli Mandolin stayed, when the film was shot on the island. The famous actor Nicolas Cage stayed in a villa above Sami. There is also a cafe with the name of the film, in which the myth says that all waiters look like Nicolas Cage. In a close distance to the modern town, you can visit Ancient Sami. Ancient Sami was a powerful city in the antiquity, inhabited since the Palaeolithic times. In the archaeological site, you can admire the impressive walls, Roman houses and tombs from various periods.
Skala is the most touristic place with mass tourism, numerous restaurants and all-inclusive hotels. The beach of Skala is very beautiful and organised. If you want to get away from mass tourism, then take the road that connects Skala with Argostoli and discover lovely villages, such as Markopoulo and Katokelios as well as tiny private beaches, where you may see turtles or dolphins swimming.
Saint Gerasimos is the patron saint of the island, and local people believe that he had miraculous skills. In the Monastery of Saint Gerasimos, which is located close to Valsamata village, he lived as a monk and his relics are kept.
Top beaches in Kefalonia
Myrtos is one of the most popular and beautiful beaches in Greece. It is a long bay with golden sand and emerald waters. It is partly organised, but in the summer, it gets very crowded. The best way to visit it is to stay in Fiskardo and go by car to this amazing beach a weekday and not during the weekends.
Near the port of Sami, you can go to Antisamos, a beach that has white pebbles, lush greenery and crystal blue waters. This beach was the beautiful romantic setting of the international film shot in Kefalonia, Captain Corelli's Mandolin.
12 km from Lixouri, you can visit Xi Beach, an imposing cove with red sand and surrounded by white cliffs. It is organised, family-friendly, with a beach bar and water sports facilities.
Petani has taken its name from the ancient Greek word, which means abundant waters. It is located on the western side of Kefalonia, and it has crystal waters that deepen gradually, so it is ideal for kids. Petani Beach is also the ideal spot for romantics, as it is famous for its breathtaking sunsets.
If you want to visit a bay away from the crowds, then Agia Eleni, near Petani, is perfect for you. It has blue waters, white pebbles and hardly any tourists, although it is one of the most beautiful beaches in Kefalonia.
Platia Ammos is the ultimate beach for adventurers. A few years ago, it was accessible only by boat, and now, it can be reached through climbing down 280 steps. You can drive to the end of the road near the beach, but then climbing is unavoidable. However, the stunning natural beauty will make you forget everything else.
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