Kefalonia: Why you must visit this under rated, hidden gem Greek Island

Greece is well-known for its stunning islands such as Santorini, Mykonos, and Crete, but nestled quietly in the Ionian Sea lies a lesser-known paradise: Kefalonia. Kefalonia is an under rated hidden gem greek island, offering a blend of untamed natural beauty, pristine beaches, charming villages, and an authentic Greek vibe with an Italian twist that remains untouched by the over-tourism that plagues more famous destinations. For travelers seeking a quieter, more relaxed experience, Kefalonia is a perfect choice, filled with unique landscapes and serenity. Here's why Kefalonia should be at the top of your travel list.

Assos, a colourful, vibrant village in Kefalonia

A Slice of Authentic Greece

Kefalonia, the largest of the Ionian Islands, is known for its lush greenery, dramatic landscapes, and crystal-clear waters. The island’s beauty is rugged and wild, characterized by sweeping cliffs, sprawling olive groves, and striking beaches. It’s the perfect place for travelers looking to escape the crowds, enjoy nature, and explore off-the-beaten-path Greek culture.

While Kefalonia gained brief international fame as the setting of the movie Captain Corelli’s Mandolin starring Nicolas Cage, it has managed to retain its serene atmosphere, making it an underrated and somewhat secret island paradise in Greece.

Beautiful Places in Kefalonia:

1. Argostoli: The Vibrant Capital of hidden gem Greek island of Kefalonia

Argostoli is the capital and largest town of Kefalonia, offering a mix of modern amenities and traditional Greek charm. This bustling seaside town is where most visitors begin their journey, thanks to its lively atmosphere, scenic harbor, and welcoming vibe.

Things to Do in Argostoli:

• Visit the Drapano Bridge: The stone De Bosset Bridge connects the town to the Drapano peninsula, and offers beautiful views of the bay. At 689.9 meters, it is the longest stone bridge crossing the sea in Argostoli. The bridge crosses Koutavos Lagoon, a beautiful natural reserve where you can often spot sea turtles.

• Stroll through Lithostroto: The main pedestrian street filled with shops, cafes, and restaurants offering local delicacies and handmade crafts.

• Meet Logger head turtles at Argostoli Harbour: It was a pleasant surprise to see a Logger head turtle that was swimming alonng the harbour close to 12 PM when we visited, despite them having a repuation for not being seen after 10 AM at this spot. They arrive in groups at the harbour following after the fisherman boats every morning, hoping to catch some scraps and retreat to the sea after. An activity kids and adults can enjoy.

• Learn about local history at the Archaeological Museum: The museum houses artifacts from ancient Kefalonia, offering insight into the island's deep-rooted history.

• Beaches: Nearby, you’ll find the famous Makris Gialos Beach, perfect for swimming and relaxation.

  
  

2. Assos: A Fairytale colourful Village

Assos is one of the most picturesque and charming villages on the island. Nestled on a small peninsula and surrounded by lush greenery, this quaint village feels like a step back in time. Its colorful houses, calm harbor, and historic ruins make it a favorite among those seeking tranquility.

Things to Do in Assos:

• Explore Assos Castle: Perched on a hill above the village, this 16th-century Venetian fortress offers panoramic views of the area and a glimpse into Kefalonia’s storied past.

• Walk the Narrow Streets: Wander through Assos’ cobblestone streets, admire the pastel-colored houses, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

• Relax by the Sea: The small bay in Assos is perfect for a refreshing swim or a lazy afternoon by the water.

• Myrtos beach: You will stop at a view point of Myrtos beach on your way to Assos. Butthe beach itself is not part of Assos and is worth the detour. There are many parking spaces and sunbeds at this beach.

• Have a gelato: We grabbed a delicious gelato to beat the August heat at Rotsis family bakery (google maps linked below). They also have a wide selection of Greek sweets to try if you have a sweet tooth!

  
  

3. Fiskardo: The Cosmopolitan Harbour

For those seeking a mix of luxury and authenticity, Fiskardo is a must-visit. This picturesque fishing village on the northern tip of Kefalonia is known for its beautiful waterfront, where yachts and fishing boats bob gently on the water. Unlike much of the island, Fiskardo was largely untouched by the devastating 1953 earthquake, allowing it to retain its historic Venetian-style architecture.

Things to Do in Fiskardo:

• Stroll the Waterfront: Fiskardo’s harbor is lined with several restaurants, cafes, and boutique shops, making it a great place for a leisurely walk or dining by the sea.

• Explore Local History: Visit the 6th-century basilica and the Roman cemetery nearby to get a taste of the area’s historical significance.

• Day Trip to Ithaca: Fiskardo is a great jumping-off point for a quick boat trip to the neighboring island of Ithaca, the mythical home of Odysseus.

• Relax on Nearby Beaches: Close to Fiskardo, you’ll find serene beaches like Emblisi Beach and Dafnoudi Beach, both offering stunning turquoise waters.

• Try the local dish Stifado (beef stew): After having a strong diet of gyros and souvlaki on our Greek holiday, we were waiting to try the Stifado, a delixious beef stew full of flavours served with rice & fries. If you are a non-vegetarian, you should try this dish at restaurant Roula's Grill House (linked below)

Top Things to Do in Kefalonia:

1. Explore Melissani Cave and Lake

One of Kefalonia’s most magical attractions, Melissani Cave, is a partially submerged cave filled with stunning turquoise waters. Visitors can take a boat tour through the cave and experience the mesmerizing reflections created by sunlight streaming through the collapsed roof. The combination of the crystal-clear water and the dramatic rock formations makes this an unforgettable experience.

Note: It's a very commercialised boat tour that lasts barely 10 minutes. You have to queue up and the ride lasts about 10 minutes. Fee per person : 7€. There is no view point to look at this cave from above, and this shot is a drone shot.

2. Visit Myrtos Beach

No trip to Kefalonia would be complete without visiting Myrtos Beach, often considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Enclosed by steep limestone cliffs, the beach’s white pebbles and vibrant blue water create a picture-perfect setting. Whether you’re sunbathing, swimming, or just soaking in the incredible views, Myrtos Beach will take your breath away.

3. Hiking on Mount Ainos

If you’re into outdoor activities, consider a hike up Mount Ainos, the highest mountain in the Ionian Islands. The mountain is part of a national park and is home to rare fir trees and abundant wildlife. The hike offers incredible views of the island and the surrounding sea, making it a great way to connect with Kefalonia’s natural beauty.

4. Wine Tasting at Robola Wineries

Kefalonia is famous for its local Robola wine, a dry white wine made from grapes grown in the island’s rich soil. Several wineries on the island offer tours and tastings, allowing you to sample this exquisite wine while learning about the island’s winemaking traditions.

5. Explore Drogarati Cave

This impressive cave, located near Sami, features stunning stalactites and stalagmites, and is renowned for its excellent acoustics. In fact, it has been used for concerts in the past due to the echoing sound effects created within the cave’s vast chambers.

Where to Stay in Kefalonia:

Avertosia Luxury Villas (Argostoli)

For those seeking an affordable luxury family holiday or a group trip with friends, this super spacious 2-bedroom villa overlooking the Ionian sea featuring a stunning private pool is an absolute paradise. We stayed here during our trip and cannot recommend it enough! Check out the property here.

It was perfectly located for us to explore Argostloi, Myrtos beach, Fiskardo and Assos. The villa offers various services such as private chef, yoga classes and much more. If this holiday sounds perfect for you, check availability and book here.

Our final thoughts on Kefalonia:

Kefalonia is an island of contrasts — from its dramatic landscapes and tranquil villages to its bustling harbour towns and secluded beaches. The island’s rich history, natural wonders, and laid-back atmosphere make it a hidden gem that deserves to be explored. Whether you're seeking relaxation, adventure, or a taste of authentic Greek culture, Kefalonia has something special to offer.

If you're planning your next getaway, skip the more crowded Greek islands and head to Kefalonia, where you'll find breathtaking beauty, warm hospitality, and an island experience like no other.

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