Kefalonia

The Ionian island is located west of mainland Greece. It is known for its limestone cliffs, secluded bays and gorgeous golden beaches, making it ideal for people who want to have a classic beach holiday. The island is fairly small when compared to some of the other islands, with an area of 786 kilometres and a population of 35, 801.

Kefalonia has a traditional Mediterranean climate with mild winters and hot summers, making it a fantastic holiday destination. The best time to visit is between June and August when temperatures regularly sit in the mid-twenties, with the hottest month being August (25 degrees). Elevated areas can be slightly cooler during the summer with cool breezes to off-set the heat of summer. Hot weather often begins in May and can continue late into October, making this destination a great place to visit throughout the year.

In Greek mythology, Kefalonia is the spot where a young refugee from Athens, called Kefalos, landed and defeated a group of people known as the Tafi. The island shows evidence of inhabitation from more than 10,000 years ago, ensuring that it has a good history, specifically, in the middle ages. It was then, in 886-912 AD that Kefalonia was made capital of the Ionian islands. It was conquered by the Ottomans in 1479 and remained under the rule until the Napoleonic wars, when it fell under British control. Finally joining the rest of mainland Greece in 1864.

With an excellent culinary tradition visitors are sure to enjoy tasting the delicious Kreatopita, a mixed-meat pie wrapped in a flaky pastry is a must, or the tasty chicken or beef sofigido, a thick tomato stew with wine and cloves, which is Kefalonia’s version of the more famous stifado. The island also offers a great selection of fresh fish dishes, alongside some delicious local wines, making it the perfect destination for food lovers.

A place of unique natural beauty, it features an array of activities that are perfectly suited for children. Foremost, there are many beaches, which come sandy or pebbled and provide a variety of watersports, including snorkelling and surfing. There is also a wide selection of great inland areas, including mountains, waterfalls and luscious forests for families who want to hike around the beautiful scenery on their family holiday. Stables, are plentiful on the island for anyone who wants to explore the beautiful scenery from the back of a horse.

The best thing about Kefalonia are the many beaches that decorate its coastline, such as Antisamos Beach, where Captain Corelli’s Mandolin was filmed or Petani Beach famous for the great watersports that it offers. There is also a great selection of nature inland, with hiking and camping popular on the island, while, the Melissani Cave, is a beautiful underground spot, known in Greek myth for being the place where a nymph committed suicide.

The island hosts all the traditional Greek religious events, alongside the Robola Wine Festival, which takes place during the third weekend of August in Fragata. This includes a range of delicious local wines, along with traditional dancing and music that lasts long into the night. The capital Argostoli also hosts an international music festival in late August, which combines international and local music, and is a great cultural event, which visitors are sure to enjoy.

The best nightlife in Kefalonia is found in the capital, Argostoli, replete with modern clubs, trendy bars and big discos, there are plenty of places to dance the night away with refreshing drinks and a fun atmosphere. Parties can also be found in other places like Sami, Skala, Fiscardo, Lixouri and Poros. The other parts of the island are perfect for relaxing times, looking out over the turquoise waters of the Ionian Sea.