Kefalonia

Karavados

This charming village at the foot of Mount Ainos oozes beauty with its pine forest, olive groves, rustic houses, imposing church and inviting little tavernas. This place is perfect for a truly relaxing and laid-back holiday. Nearby Agios Thomas beach is a popular spot for snorkelling in the azure waters and catching some rays on the sands.

Lassi

This purpose-built town is one of the island’s most popular resorts with hits golden sandy beaches, and bustling main street with plenty of shops, restaurants and bars. You’ll discover a myriad of water sports action here and the capital Argostoli is a short taxi ride away if you fancy a night on the town.

Lixouri

This picturesque resort near the ancient town of Paliokastro is a great choice for a sunshine escape in Kefalonia. The town is home to disco bars, traditional Greek restaurants and charming coffee shops. Lepeda, Xi and Mega Lakos are two delightful beaches near Lixouri village.

Poros

Get a taste of real Greek life in this laid-back coastal town which retains its authentic charm and unspoilt atmosphere. It is home to a charming port, two pebbly beaches and is surrounded by lush forests and glistening waters. You’ll also find a range of souvenir shops, bars and restaurants. Nearby Atros Monastery, which dates back to 1264, is definitely worth a visit.

Skala

This fabulous village resort has plenty of appeal for holidaymakers with its lush pine forests, tranquil waters and an amazing beach which runs for 3km. It is also home to charming Greek pastry shops, cocktail bars, superb traditional restaurants and the ruins of an ancient Roman villa.

Beaches are the major part of the appeal of Kefalonia holidays so what better way to soak up the sun than to head to one in particular, there are many to choose from. All offer excellent watersport facilities from jet-skiing, parasailing and leisurely pedaloes. Alternatively, grab your hat, bottle of water and camera and head to the mountain range, the third largest mountain range in Greece, to discover the amazing views of nearby islands. Pretty villages, ancient landmarks and interesting designs grace Kefalonia making it an interesting experience to any traveller.

While on holiday in Kefalonia, why not visit the 3^rd century ruins of a Roman Villa in Skala or the many caves offering stunning sights such as stalactites and underground lakes. Historic old churches, imposing monasteries and hilltop castles make for great adventures perfect for those on family holidays to Kefalonia. After a day of sightseeing there is nothing better than to sit and relax in one of the many restaurants or eateries and watch the world go by. Seafood and meat cooked the Greek way all washed down with a local beer and a drop of Ouzo and you’re sorted. With much to offer, you will find that Kefalonia holidays tick all the right boxes no matter how many times you visit.

What better way to spend a day of your Kefalonia holiday than visiting one of the islands famous wineries, spend the day tasting an array of local wines while enjoying the stunning surroundings under the warm sun.

You won’t be disappointed with the glorious sandy beaches, magical coves and enchanting bays in sun-kissed Kefalonia.

This awe-inspiring island is perfect for the beach holiday of a lifetime – with everything from long sandy expanses and shallow waters which are ideal for families to secluded untouched coves which are great for couples craving a romantic time in the sun.

The most popular beach is Myrtos with its pristine golden sands, towering hills and crystal-clear waters. This magnificent semi-circular beach which lies between the feet of two mountains is surrounded by incredible natural beauty.

Lourdas Beach is another wonderful sandy expanse with turquoise waters, verdant landscape and glorious waterfalls running through the mountainous backdrop.

Makris Gialos Beach is a hive of activity with beach volleyball and a myriad of thrilling water sports among the activities you’ll discover there. This sandy stretch near Argostoli also has plenty of beach bars and restaurants.

Emblisi Beach is a heavenly escape for couples who want a private and romantic time together. The calm waters are also perfect for snorkelling to the seabed to explore the abundant marine life.

Other fabulous sandy expanses of note in Kefalonia include Avithos Beach on the south of the island, Skala Beach which has the coveted Blue Flag status and Agios Thomas Beach, a charming little gem near Karavados village.

There’s no shortage of delicious traditional dishes and drinks to try out during a holiday in Kefalonia.

A popular speciality to tantalise your taste buds is Kefalonia meat pie which consists of cubed pork, lamb, goat or beef which is combined with feta cheese, rice, onions, garlic, olive oil and marjoram.

Bakaliaropita is a scrumptious cod pie which includes roast pumpkin, potatoes and a filo pastry dome, while poutrida is a wonderful spicy dish which is pork with cabbage, cauliflower, carrots, broccoli, paprika and hot pepper.

Bourbourelia is a hearty vegetarian soup which comprises a range of pulses and beans, plus salt and olive oil.

Kefalonian honey is highly-regarded and you’ll find it being sold in jars in many shops and markets on the island.

Popular desserts include galaktoboureko, which comprises chilled custard and layers of filo pastry soaked in syrup, while mandolato is a mouth-watering sweet nougat featuring honey, almonds, egg whites and sugar.

The island is also renowned for its superb locally-produced wines which include Robola, Chirinia, Vostididi Tsouousi and Mavrodaphne of Keffalonia.

Restaurants with a great reputation on the island include Andromeda in Lourdas, Phaedra Restaurant in Argostoli, Tassia in Fiskardo village and Captain Nikolas in Lixouri.

Odysseus Zoo land

Children will love this natural park which is themed on the The Odyssey, the epic work by the legendary Greek author Homer. You’ll get to meet some captivating animals and birds including the endangered black pig, the horses of Ainos, royal deer, parrots and donkeys.

Beekeeping honey farm

Kefalonia is renowned for its honey and you can see it being produced in the Dias Beekeeping Honey Farm in Svoronata. You’ll wear a protective suit and enjoy an informative 3-hour tour around the farm. You’ll get to sample the delicious produce at the end of the tour.

Turtle spotting

Walk along the beach and harbour area in Argostoli searching for protected loggerhead turtles. Volunteers from Wildlife Sense can also be seen here, regularly patrolling the area on the lookout for turtle nests and creating hatchling inventories.

Catamaran sailing trip

Spend a relaxing day cruising around the coast aboard a fabulous catamaran. You’ll sail past magnificent beaches, cliffs, forests and idyllic bays. You’ll also be served a tasty lunch on the boat and enjoy some swimming and snorkelling.

Mount Ainos

The tallest mountain on the island peaks at 1,628 metres and sits inside Kefalonia’s only national park. The area is great for hiking, with a choice of exciting trails, and it’s also home to plenty of wildlife including goats, wild horses, vultures, buzzards and eagle owls.

Saint Theodoroi Lighthouse

This is a delightful attraction in picturesque surroundings which was built in 1828. The lighthouse on the tip of the Argostoli peninsular is most impressive with its 20 towering white columns.

Melissani Cave

Take a boat trip inside this popular tourist attraction near Sami which is truly amazing. The cave has a subterranean lake inside it which is surrounded by trees and forests. Part of the cave roof collapsed centuries ago, allowing light to pour in and create a magical effect.

Fiscardo fishing village

This is a great place for a group to spend a day out in the glorious sunshine. The former traditional fishing base is now a boaters paradise, with super yachts aplenty on the promenade. You’ll also discover charming fish tavernas and wonderful cafes.

Brewery trip

You can enjoy a visit to the Kefalonian Brewery in the town of Sami where you’ll get to sample the delicious liquid gold beer. A guide will give an in-depth explanation of the brewing process, followed by a visit to the tasting room.

Monastery of Sissia

This is a truly beautiful building which stands on a hill above Lourdas Beach and close to Platies village. Folklore suggests that the monastery was founded in the 13th century by Saint Francis of Assisi.

Water sports

Take to the sea for some exhilarating water sports fun. There’s plenty of opportunity all around the coast to enjoy a range of activities including wakeboarding, jet-skiing, waterskiing, kneeboarding and paddleboarding.

Museum visit

The Archaeological Museum of Argostoli is well worth a visit during a solo holiday in Kefalonia. You’ll see some amazing exhibits here including a collection of enthralling antiques unearthed on the island between pre-historic times and the Roman period.