Kefalonia is said to be one of the first inhabited places in Greece as findings as far back as 50,000 BC have been discovered. Not only is Kefalonia the first inhabited place, but it’s also the largest of the Ionian islands, and dramatically different from the rest. It was once voted tenth in the world scenic beauty league, as Kefalonia boasts some of the best beaches of the Greek Islands.
Kefalonia is a great island to be explored, either by car or coach as there is an excellent road network. There is fantastic nature for walkers, ramblers, swimmers and snorkelers to enjoy. Being the least commercialised tourist destination, it is somewhere you’ll want to revisit time and time again.
Things to do
As the largest of the Ionian islands Kefalonia has plenty for you to do. The caves of Drogarati are a fantastic sight. The caves have stayed cool over thousands of years, and have taken to forming the multi-coloured stalactites and stalagmites that fill the caverns.
The island has a fascinating history with archaeological finds dating back to the Mycenaean era when Odysseus set sail for Troy with 12 ships from Kefalonia. The island has two hundred villages with monasteries and churches tucked away in the valleys.
One of the first places you’ll end up as a tourist, and for some the last, is one of the huge array of beaches. Pleasant beaches include Lepada which has red sand that slopes gently into the shallow water where you can paddle or snorkel which shoals of colourful fish nibble your toes!
If you go kayaking you may spot a Mediterranean monk seal, one of the six most endangered mammals in the world. Or if you are of a patient disposition you may be able to see the magical sight from June to August, when female loggerhead turtles come ashore to nest all along the western and southern beaches of Kefalonia. It is a truly magical place.
Shopping
Kefalonia’s shops tend to mainly stock local products and jewels. Most of the shops of the island are located in the capital Argostoli on Lithostratos Street. You’ll find products such as Kefalonian ‘thyme honey’, silver and gold jewelry and various wines. With so many vineyards growing in Kefalonia, island wine comes highly recommended and includes red and white wines.
Nightlife
Kefalonia is not famous for its Nightlife but there are plenty of bars and clubs scattered around the island, offering a wide range of music and the possibility to drink, dance and party all night.
Nightlife is based around Argostoli, the capital of Kefalonia, but the modern bars and big nightclubs can be found in main resorts such as Sami, Skala, Fiscardo, Lixouri and Poros. In the summer various beach parties are organised and are famously fun.
Eating out
Eating out in Kefalonia is more about a social dining experience than simply satisfying your hunger. The Greeks eat with friends and family which is why you will often see large tables filled with Greek families offering ‘mezzes’ what seem like an endless series of starters and main courses. A mixture of dishes are chosen and everyone helps themselves to a little of everything. It’s a truly sociable time to catch up on everything that is happening.
Kefalonia offers a wide range of foods from the traditional Greek menu, tavernas, grills, souviaki bars, restaurants, Italian, Chinese, Indian, western and many more. There is no chance of going hungry in Kefalonia.