Best Places to Visit in Kefalonia
As the largest of the Ionian islands and one of the most verdant, Kefalonia has long been a must-visit destination that is on the bucket list of many travellers. Many have discovered the epic landscape, stunning unspoiled beaches, crystal-clear waters, caves and historical culture of this beautiful Greek island, which keeps visitors coming back, time and again. Because it is a relatively small island, getting around and exploring the sights is fairly easy, especially if you hire a car. Here are our recommendations for the best place to visit in Kefalonia while enjoying your villa holiday.
Lassi
A popular resort village on the southern coast, Lassi is very popular with Kefalonia newbies thanks to its abundance of restaurants, shops, cafes and mini markets, with everything you could need right on your doorstep. Exploring Kefalonia from here is easy if you don’t have a car, as the village offers rentals and day trips and excursions for those who don’t feel like driving, especially if you want to explore the island’s main capital of Argostoli. Beach and sunbathing lovers are well catered for on this part of the island, which boasts the beautiful white-sand beaches of Platis Gialos and Makris Gialos, offering nearby beach bars, tavernas and water sports for all ages.
Just outside of Argostoli, you’ll find the famous Katavothres Sea Mills, which is one of the island’s most popular attractions, featuring mills that pump sea water to the Melissani Lake, which lies 15km uphill. Lassi is also home to the island’s first travel agency, Panem, which has been running for the last 35 years. They offer family-friendly trips to the iconic Shipwreck Bay, Blue Caves, or even a day trip to the island of Ithaca, the legendary birthplace of Odysseus.
Sami
If you’re wondering what is the best area to stay in Kefalonia, this desirable town is considered to be more Greek in nature, and is home to more locals than expats. Wander around and discover an abundance of traditional tavernas, cafes and restaurants offering their catch of the day. Sami also offers plenty of jewellery and souvenir shops selling beautiful hand made ornaments, pots and lace, as well as a small beach named after the town. The nearby Antisamos beach is the location where the film Captain Corelli’s Mandolin was filmed on the island. If you hire one of our beautiful properties such as Villa Ambrosia Sami, all of this is just short drive away.
History lovers will delve into the classical sites of Sami, including the Agrilia Monastery, and the Roman baths and town ruins of ancient Sami, which were referenced in Homer’s texts. Also worth exploring is Karavomilos Lake, which is home to many wild birds, fish, a quaint local church and watermill. If you’re into hiking and want to explore the nature of Kefalonia, the 2.5km Watermills Trail makes for a fantastic walk, covering stone bridges, mountain views, lush vegetation and crystal-clear waters.
Assos
Want to experience a very quiet and laid-back side to Kefalonia? Assos is the ideal retreat for couples and those who want to avoid the busier resorts, and is arguably one of the best places to go in Kefalonia. There isn’t much in the way of amenities, which means you’ll see more locals than tourists. A handful of tavernas are dotted here and there, and a mini market stocks local produce you can enjoy when you return to your Villa Kristola. We recommend hiring a car to explore this area of the island properly. Park up and wander around Assos, taking in the picture-postcard alleyways, stunning views, turquoise waters, castle ruins that date back to the Venetian era, and olive groves buzzing with cicadas. Indulge in a spot of lunch on the pebble beach, backed by epic limestone cliffs.
Plan your next getaway and discover the best places to visit in Kefalonia on a luxury villa holiday. Why not see more of our Very Villa Plus holiday villas on this beautiful Greek island?