Holidays to incredible Kefalonia

Stunning scenery, picturesque villages, tucked away beaches... you’ll find Kefalonia has it all. This gem of an island is not only the setting for the book and film Captain Corelli's Mandolin, but is also thought to be the birthplace of Odysseus, hero of Homer's Odyssey and king of nearby Ithaca. Over the years Turks, Venetians, the French, Russians and British have all ruled the island - until 1864, when Kefalonia joined Greece. Visit the bustling capital of Argóstoli, rebuilt with wide avenues and a handsome town square after an earthquake in 1953, or explore Melissani Caves, an open-air cave lake, with stalagmites and stalactites.  

Found off the western coast of Greece, Kefalonia is the largest of the seven Ionian islands; whilst each one is special in its own way, a holiday to Kefalonia will be something to remember forever. Blessed with a natural beauty and plenty to explore, whether you’re in the mood for relaxation or adventure, you’ll find what you’re looking for on this enchanting island. 

There are many breathtaking beaches to be found on the island, but if you only visit one, make it Myrtos. Possibly Kefalonia’s most well-known beach, it’s renowned for the dramatic limestone cliffs that rise up steeply from the pretty white pebbles that make up the beach. With the twinking turquoise waves washing the pebbles and the clear blue sky above, it’s not surprising that this scene has made it on to countless postcards! 

Found on Kefalonia’s west coast, the island’s friendly capital presents a perfect snapshot of the local culture and heritage. The waterfront lined with swaying palms is an ideal way to soak up the charms, whether that’s watching as the boats come and go, relaxing with a coffee or enjoying delicious meze. You’ll also find a nearby lagoon boasting various species of bird, over which runs a stone bridge that grants fabulous views back over the mirrored surface of the lake towards the town. 

On the other side of the island to Argostoli, and around a 45-minute drive away, you’ll find the spectacular Melissani Cave Lake. Named after the Greek nymph Melissani, and filled with fascinating stalactites and stalagmites, this underground lake is fed by freshwater streams and seawater that replenishes the water as quickly as it pours out. This constant cycle ensures the water remains crystal-clear – so that when the sunlight floods in through the caved in ceiling, the water takes on an ethereal glow. You can experience it all on a boat ride through the cave, or from a balcony on top of the cave for top-down views.