When you think of a Greek island, what comes to mind? Sun-drenched beaches, whitewashed houses perched on dramatic cliffs, crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life? If so, then Kefalonia should be next on your list. This stunningly beautiful island has everything you could want and more. Kefalonia, the largest of the islands in the Ionian Sea, is situated between the rest. Famous among tourists and locals alike, it is frequently depicted in the media and enjoyed by everyone. Kefalonia has been a tourist hotspot ever since. The island is stunning, with picturesque villages and a wealth of other sights to see. It is a popular tourist destination because it is Greece’s largest and most fascinating island. This island has lush green mountains, clear blue waters, and white sands on most of its beaches. Here are just a few reasons why Kefalonia should be at the top of your travel list!
1. Stunning Beaches
Kefalonia is known for having some of Greece’s most beautiful beaches, and it is fairly easy to access the beaches of Kefalonia by ferry boats. For instance, Myrtos Beach is widely recognized as one of Europe’s finest shorelines. Clear waters and towering cliffs are the beach’s calling cards. Their waters span the entire variety of blues and greens, lapping against beaches of white sand or beautiful, round stones. The most impressive, Myrtos, can be found at the base of a steep limestone cliff. However, Petani and Skala shouldn’t be missed. Or there’s Poros, where the forest’s reflection in the Ionian Sea brings out the colors. Makri Gialos adds a touch of modernity with its turquoise waves that bounce to the beat of beach bars. And Xi, with its soft green waves and fine red sand, is a refreshing change of scenery.
2. Breathtaking Landscapes
Kefalonia is known for its beautiful beaches and equally impressive scenery. Tall mountains, lush woods, and quaint towns can all be found on this island. Hiking, motorcycling, and horseback riding are just a few of the activities that allow guests to experience the island’s varied landscapes. The stunning colors of the waters in Melissani Cave, which is situated on the east coast of Kefalonia, make it a trend in stories each summer. At midday, when the sun is directly overhead, the water in Melissani Cave creates a stunning vertical reflection. You would not have found this beautiful underground lake if the cave’s ceiling hadn’t given way.
3. Rich History and Culture
Kefalonia is also a fantastic vacation spot for people looking to learn about the region’s rich cultural heritage. Greece has a very rich history and culture, and what’s interesting about that is that every part of this country has a distinct cultural heritage that might differ from other places. The ancient Mycenaeans originally lived on this island. The Cave of the Nymphs and the Palace of Nestor are two examples of historical sites that have survived this culture. Many Byzantine churches and Venetian fortresses can be found on the island as well.
4. Delicious Food and Wine
Kefalonia is also worth a trip for its excellent cuisine and wine. The island is famous for its fresh fish and traditional cuisines such as stifado (beef stew) and pastitsio (a type of lasagna). Some of the best Greek wines come from the island of Kefalonia. These wines are made from Robiola and Assyrtiko grapes. When in Kefalonia, take advantage of any opportunities you can to sample the island’s delicious regional cuisine. To begin, the wonderful tavern that sits on the shore of Avithos merits a second mention. There, you may enjoy delicious dishes prepared with fresh local ingredients and seasoned with high-quality Greek olive oil. Excellent Kefalonian wines and a breathtaking view of the endless blue of the Ionian Sea only make the food taste better.
5. Friendly Locals
Lastly, visitors often remark on Kefalonia’s welcoming residents. Kefalonian residents are happy to show guests around and talk about their way of life. Locals are known across Greece as some of the friendliest and most helpful people you’ll ever meet. You can expect to adopt their carefree outlook on life within a few days of your arrival. When you visit this Greek island, you’ll feel like you’ve come home.
