Travel Guides: All Countries / Europe / Greece / Ionian Islands / Kefalonia
 |  | Destination Guide : Kefalonia |
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| | | Sun, style and sophistication |  | Why go on holiday to Kefalonia?
Sun, style, and sophistication - three S's that sum up the beautiful Ionian island of Kefalonia. Rugged, towering mountains provide a dramatic landscape while the fertile earth and splendid flora serve up a feast for the senses.
It's all capped off with picturesque fishing villages and glorious beaches.
How much does it cost?
You may not pick up the real cheap accommodation deals found on some other Greek Islands. Prices vary but seven-day self-catering packages start at about £250, B&B at about £300. Expect to pay about £150 for a return flight to Athens. There are connecting flights from Athens for about £35 at the time of writing.
When should I go?
Kefalonia does not experience the cooling winds of the meltemi, so July and August are extremely hot. Most days reach at least 30C (high 80Fs). The climate in spring and autumn is more comfortable. Expect high rainfall between October and February.
* Feeling inspired? Book a break to Greece.
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| | | The world of Captain Corelli |  | What should I do when I'm there?
The lively, modern port of Argostoli is set on a peninsula, connected to the rest of the island by a causeway. A Saturday market on the waterfront is a bustling hive of activity, with luscious fresh produce for sale.
The only village on Kefalonia not to be devastated by a massive earthquake in 1953, Fiskardo is a delightful fishing harbour, framed by cypress-topped hills and home to some splendid Venetian buildings.
It is also a popular stopping-off point with holiday yachts. Sami is a pretty little port, where much of the film of Captain Corelli's Mandolin was shot.
What are the beaches like?
The sweeping, white sandy beach of Myrtos is considered one of the Greek islands' most spectacular and is 3km from the white-washed village of Assos, on the north coast.
Another outstanding beach can be found at Lourdas on the south coast between Argostoli and Skala. By boat you can access some delightful coves and have a beach all to yourself.
What sights are there?
There are two spectacular caves on Kefalonia. Mellisani cave, 2.5km from Sami, is a subterranean seawater lake where the water turns into a kaleidoscope of colour when the sun shines through an overhead opening.
Nearby Drogarati cave is filled with spectacular stalactites.
What activities can I do?
Choose from a wide selection of watersports including parasailing, waterskiing, sailboarding and scuba diving. Kefalonia's also a fun and challenging place to go mountain biking - but watch out for potholes!
What are the flora and fauna like?
Kefalonia has a rich diversity of plant life. There are many species of wildflower, including orchids; the heady scents of thyme, oregano and bay leaves; and a unique fir forest species.
Visitors to Kefalonia in June may be lucky enough to witness the annual influx of loggerhead turtles, who lay their eggs on the island's southern beaches.
The waters around Kefalonia are also home to the Mediterranean monk seal, one of the six most endangered mammals in the world.
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| | | Living the good life | | Where's good for nightlife?
Ibiza can safely hold onto its crown as the party island, but Kefalonia has a selection of discos and bars which will satisfy all but the most fervent club animals. Lassi, a popular resort 20 minutes' walk from Argostoli, is probably best for clubbing.
What's the food like?
Expect plenty of fresh seafood and the usual taverna staples which you'd find on the mainland.
Kefalonian lamb pie is a local speciality well worth seeking out. Veggies will delight in the stuffed peppers and tomatoes, giant beans in tomatoes and herbs and green beans. Robola, the local white wine, slips down easily.
What should I buy?
An exotic and eclectic range of local produce including thyme honey, mandoles (pralines), Robola wine, quince paste and various cheeses. Island pottery is another good souvenir.
What is there for children to do?
There is a children's park in Argostoli, but other than that the beach is the main attraction. The water is clean and clear and children are made to feel welcome all over the island.
Tourist office
Hellenic Tourism Organisation, 4 Conduit Street, London W1S 2DJ. Tel. 020 7495 9300.
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| | Available rental properties in Kefalonia |
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| |  | | Villa Olive Grove
3 bedroom property suitable for 6+ guests
Full kitchen, open & airy living space, modern romantic decor
4 patio & balcony areas with fantastic sea a
|  | | Villa Brio complex, Kefalonia, Greece, Villa 1
Four
seafront villas, in Kefalonia, Greece, with private beach and pools, for those who opt for finesse & affordable luxury during their holiday.
|  | | Villa Brio complex, Kefalonia, Greece, Villa 2
Four seafront villas, in Kefalonia, Greece, with private beach and pools, for those who opt for finesse & affordable luxury during their holidays.
|  | | Villa Brio complex, Kefalonia, Greece, Villa 3
Four seafront villas,in Kefalonia, Greece, with private beach and pools, for those who opt for finesse & affordable luxury during their holidays.
|  | | Villa Ithaca, Kefalonia
Stunning newly built Greek villa with private pool and garden set in the picturesque village of Karavados on the island of Kefalonia. Very near to the
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