Kefalonia- the largest of all the Greek islands of the Ionian Sea. To the north of it is about. Lefkada, to the east is the famous Ithaca, the birthplace of Homer’s Odysseus, and to the south is about. Zakynthos The highest points of Kefalonia are Mount Enos and Rudi (1627 m and 1130 m respectively), its total area is 671 km².
The first mentions of the local inhabitants, the Cephalonians, are found in Homer’s poem “The Illiad”. In that distant era, their lands were part of the state of Odysseus. In subsequent periods of history, many conquerors visited the island. Its lands were dominated by the Romans, Byzantines, Normans, Turks, Venetians, French and English. And only in 1864 it finally became part of Greece.
The natural beauty of Kefalonia amazes you at first sight. The greenery of the mountain slopes covered with coniferous trees and the riot of colors of flowers that can be seen in every corner of the island are harmoniously combined here.
If you wish, you can travel around Kefalonia all year round, visiting a new place every day - after all, there are 365 villages! Each of them boasts something unusual, but all the villages are united by traditional Greek architecture, an abundance of greenery and flowers, which local residents love to decorate balconies, courtyards and building facades with.
Unfortunately, the powerful earthquake of 1953 also left its mark on the island. Many houses were destroyed, including magnificent buildings from the Venetian period. However, there is a lot to see in Kefalonia: modern architecture complements the appearance of cities and towns, and lush gardens still delight the eyes of visitors.
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Sights of Kefalonia
Monastery St. Andrew's And Church of Panagia Languvarda– the most interesting sights of Kefalonia that survived the earthquake. The monastery is notable for the fact that it houses a unique relic - part of the right foot of the Apostle Andrew from the monastery. There is also a museum here, where Byzantine icons and church vestments are displayed.
An interesting story is connected with Church of Panagia Languvarda, which is located in the village of Markopoulo. According to legend, during the period of Byzantine rule, pirates landed on the island. In order to save the nuns of the local monastery, the Mother of God turned them into small snakes. Since then, every year on the day of the Dormition of the Virgin Mary (August 15), many snakes with crosses appear in the village. The parishioners catch them and bring them to the icon “Theotokos of the Serpent”. People believe that if you apply a snake to a sore spot or even just hold it in your hands, you can be healed of ailments. Naturally, on this day hundreds of pilgrims come to Markopoulo to see the miracle with their own eyes.
While vacationing in Kefalonia, you can visit other equally wonderful places:
- Unique underground Melissani cave lake, formed as a result of an earthquake
- Drogariti Cave at a depth of 44 meters, which is about 150 million years old
- The highest mountain reserve of the Ionian Islands Enos(1628 meters).
- Asos Fortress, built at the beginning of the 17th century
- Mycenaean period domed tomb of Zanatu, whose burials scientists date back to 1400-1000 BC.
- Ruins of a Roman villa, on the walls of which magnificent mosaics have been preserved
Beaches of Kefalonia
Among the beaches of Kefalonia, it is difficult to give preference to just one, because every corner of the island has a unique and charming atmosphere in its own way. But there are several world-famous beaches that visitors to the island try to visit first.
Ammes. A small, calm beach covered with golden, fine-grained sand, located in the village of Svoronata. A good bonus: there is an airport nearby.
Antisamos. The beach is located in a bay near the town of Sami, not far from the main port, and is rightfully considered one of the most beautiful not only in Kefalonia, but throughout Greece. And it’s not surprising: here the green slopes of the mountains approach the crystal clear water, forming amazing idyllic landscapes.
Makris Gialos. This beach is known for the best infrastructure on the island: there are cafes, snack bars and restaurants, you can rent umbrellas, sun loungers and all the necessary equipment for relaxing on the water. Every year Makri Gialos is awarded the Blue Flag, an international sign of quality.
Platys Gialos. This beach is part of the same coastline as Makris Gialos and is also well maintained and awarded the Blue Flag. But it is Platis Gialos that tourists call the Greek Riviera. Pines, flowers and other greenery form the special charm and charm of this stretch of coast.
Myrtos. A large number of tourists come to the island. Kefalonia is precisely for seeing the world famous Myrtos beach. It looks especially impressive from the heights of the surrounding rocks - a strip of snow-white sand with an incoming azure wave beckons you to go down the mountain serpentine and relax on the seashore.
Xi. Xi Beach, located near the town of Lixouri, is interesting for its unusual yellow-red sand. It is believed that the local clay has healing properties, so many vacationers smear themselves with it and thus take sunbathing. The descent into the water on Xi is gentle and shallow, so the beach is preferred by tourists with children. There are places to eat and relax - there are many eateries, hotels and apartments in the beach area. Xi is also awarded the Blue Flag for Quality.
Rock. The sandy beach of Skala is one of the widest and longest (about 3 km) on the island. It is located on the territory of the city of the same name, so all the amenities of civilization are at hand.
Kefalonia Island Map
Photo: Mouzenidis Travel
Here is a detailed map of Kefalonia with the names of cities and towns in Russian. Move the map while holding it with the left mouse button. You can move around the map by clicking on one of the four arrows in the upper left corner. You can change the scale using the scale on the right side of the map or turning the mouse wheel.
What country is Kefalonia in?
Kefalonia is located in Greece. This is a wonderful, beautiful place, with its own history and traditions. Kefalonia coordinates: north latitude and east longitude (show on large map).
Virtual walk
The “man” figurine above the scale will help you take a virtual walk through the cities of Kefalonia. By clicking and holding the left mouse button, drag it to any place on the map and you will go for a walk, while inscriptions with the approximate address of the area will appear in the upper left corner. Select the direction of movement by clicking on the arrows in the center of the screen. The “Satellite” option at the top left allows you to see a relief image of the surface. In the "Map" mode you will have the opportunity to get acquainted in detail with the roads of Kefalonia and the main attractions.
The largest island of the group of seven Ionian islands is Kefalonia (Greece). It is located between the islands of Zakynthos and covers an area of about 800 square meters. km. The highest point is Mount Big Soros (1628 m). The capital of the island is the city of Argostoli. The population of Kefalonia is about 35 thousand. The length of the coastline stretches for 250 km (you can see this by looking at the island of Kefalonia on a map of Greece). The island is widely known for its excellent beaches, magnificent nature, ancient architecture, shrines and unique natural caves.
History of the island
The island has been inhabited since the Paleolithic era. The first inhabitants who settled Cephalonia were the Lelegi tribes (15th century BC), they worshiped the king of the sea, Poseidon. During the Bronze Age, the ancient Greek peoples of the Tylevoi and Tafii lived here.
According to one version, the island of Kefalonia (Greece) received its name in honor of the mythological hero Kefal. Some historians associate the name of the island with the Cephalin family. Homer called the island Sami, but in his time it was still sparsely populated. Since the classical period, the island has been known by its current name.
In the Middle Ages, the island was part of the Byzantine Empire. Later it was captured by different peoples: Venetians, Turks and Normans. Since 1797, Kefalonia was under the protectorate of Venice, and later the island was occupied by the French. Under the influence of French revolutionaries, the local population overthrew the feudal system. Subsequently, Cephalonia became part of the so-called state of the 7 Ionian Islands. In 1864, all the Ionian Islands united with Greece.
Kefalonia, Greece Tours
Since 2013, the island of Kefalonia has become even more accessible to Russian residents thanks to the introduction of weekly charter flights from Moscow and St. Petersburg. It should be noted that complex tours Kefalonia-Zakynthos are also in great demand. Thus, you can fly to one island and fly home from another. Accordingly, you can get twice as many impressions.
Getting to know the island
At first glance, the island is mountainous and rugged. Nevertheless, like all of Greece, Kefalonia (the photos are simply impressive) does not lose its charm. While moving along the steep serpentine, landscapes of fabulous beauty open up: the azure sea, harmoniously outlined rocks, as well as green small islands of seaside villages. The landscape picture of the island is complemented by olive and myrtle groves with fluttering leaves, vineyards, and distinctive and different coastal towns. Snow-white yachts and fishing boats moored off the coast add a special flavor to Kafalonia.
All the islands of Greece are stunning with their extraordinary beauty. Kefalonia, of course, was no exception. This region captivates travelers with its fresh air with the scent of pine trees and the crystal surface of the sea. In general, a holiday in this place is calm and measured.
Capital of Kefalonia
The capital of the island is the city of Argostoli. Just 10 km from this locality there is an international airport that serves charter flights and flights from Athens. The region is located in a zone of increased seismic activity; in 1953, a devastating earthquake with a magnitude of 7 on the Richter scale was observed in Argostoli. As a result of the disaster, the city was seriously damaged. It had to literally be rebuilt from scratch. Now the capital is bustling with life, and at night numerous clubs, bars and discos light up their lights. The port of Argostoli has ferry connections with other cities in Greece.
The second port of the island is Sami. It is the main gateway for ferries coming from Italy, Astakos, Patras, Lefkada and other places.
Resort towns
The main resorts of Kefalonia are Luxouri, Skala, Lassi. The rock, in particular, is most favored by tourists from the UK. The city has about 30 hotels, 3 supermarkets, more than 10 bars and several dozen souvenir shops. Lassi and Luxouri are also famous for their vibrant nightlife and golden beaches.
The hottest weather in the region is observed in August - about 35 o C. There are beaches here for every taste - from secluded “wild” ones to very noisy ones with developed infrastructure.
Better beaches
- Myrtos Beach (Kefalonia). This beach is considered the hallmark of not only the island, but the whole of Greece. This is the most beautiful white pebble-sand beach in the country with great depth of sea. In addition, it is even included in the top 10 best beaches on the planet. Myrtos is well equipped, there are sun loungers with umbrellas, a team of lifeguards, and bars. It is located on the western coast of Kefalonia between the mountains of Kalos Oros and Agia Dinati. From the city of Assos it takes only 20 minutes to get there. However, buses are not allowed into the protected area. Despite its wide popularity and landscapes of incredible beauty, there are usually few tourists here. This is due to the inaccessibility of this place. Myrtos Beach (Kefalonia, Greece) has repeatedly been a springboard for filming. For example, some scenes from the film “Captain Corelli's Choice” were filmed here.
- Xi is a shallow beach with unique red dense sand. It is framed by limestone rocks with healing blue clay.
- Kaminia - sandy beach. It is located 34 km from the capital of Kafalonia. It is considered one of the longest beaches on the island.
- Skala Beach - located on the southern tip of the island in the town of the same name. It has an excellent layout, surrounded by picturesque hills and rocks.
- Antisamos is located near the port of Samos. It is considered a rather favorable place for sunbathing and swimming.
More than 20 beaches in the region have their own names, many of them have been awarded the Blue Flag. Overall, Kefalonia (Greece) is a great holiday destination from May to mid-October.
Island attractions
- The resort village of Agia Efimia is a favorite place for divers and yachting enthusiasts.
- Argostoli. Ethnographic and archaeological museum, as well as an ancient arched bridge.
- Luxuri. The ruins of ancient Pali and the Ipkovat Palace with a unique library.
- Mounts Roudi and Enos are natural attractions of the island of Kefalonia (Greece). These mountain ranges are covered with relict tree species that have a dark green color (the so-called black spruce).
- Assoc. Here you can visit a Venetian fortress dating back to the 16th century.
- Fiscado is a fishing village with ancient architecture. By the way, she was the only one not damaged by the 1953 earthquake.
- Drongarati Cave or House of the Dragon. One of its descents reaches 44 meters and ends in a cave hall with acoustic cancellation. Here you can admire the incredibly beautiful stalactites.
- Castro. The city was the capital of Kefalonia in the Middle Ages.
Shrines of Kefalonia
Having seen all of the above attractions on the island, you can continue excursions to Kefalonia’s shrines. There are two monasteries here - St. Andrew Myliapidias and St. Gerasimos. Both of these monasteries are female.
Saint Gerasim, who led a hermit's life in caves, is the patron saint of Kefalonia. The ascetic was born in 1506 in the city of Trikala (Peloponnese). After receiving his education, he began to travel throughout Greece and managed to visit Constantinople. On Mount Athos he began his monastic life in the Kapsala cave. Later he went to Jerusalem, where he served in the army for 12 years.
Desiring peace and solitude, the saint travels to the island of Zakif. And in 1555 he moved to Kefalonia, here he lived for five years in the Lassi cave near Argostoli (at this time a temple was built over it). From 1560 he moved to the Omala region, where he restored the chapel and built a convent with a sisterhood. He called it “New Jerusalem”.
A cave with a narrow entrance has survived to this day, where the saint lived for about 19 years. Gerasim died in 1579. His relics are in a glass shrine in the Church of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary. The monastery has three plane trees planted by Gerasim himself, 37 small wells and three springs. The saint is known for his ability to relieve obsession.
The monastery of St. Andrew Milapidias was founded in the Byzantine era. In 1264 it was transferred to the Latin Bishopric. A hundred years later it fell into decay and was revived only in 1579, when it was bought by three sisters - Leontia, Benedicta and Magdalene. They settle there, and soon the monastic community grows. In 1639, after a shipwreck, the Greek-Romanian princess Roxana ended up in the monastery. She made a huge property contribution to the monastery, but most importantly, the princess donated to the monastery the relics of St. Apostle Andrew the First-Called from Mount Athos. The monastery also houses a museum with rare ancient icons and relics.
Phenomenal phenomenon
A rather unique phenomenon occurs in the village of Markopoulo. On the day of the Dormition of the Virgin Mary, an incredible number of people with small crosses on their heads crawl there. They rush to the church, climb straight into its dome, and then crawl to the icon of the Virgin Mary. Amazingly, they do not leave it until the very end of the service. The local population reveres snakes as saints. Many consider this phenomenon a good omen.
Kefalonia Island, Greece. Hotels
Finally
Millions of tourists from all over the planet visit the Greek islands every year. Kefalonia attracts the eyes of travelers not only with its stunning nature, but also with the opportunity to engage in various sports. Here you can play tennis, basketball, go fishing or ride horses. Particularly adventurous guests can try their luck in the casino. Lovers will also love the resort, because the local beaches are considered the best throughout the Mediterranean.
Kefalonia is an island where miracles happen, or so the locals say. Quickly look at where Kefalonia is located on the map of Greece and pack your bags.
If you have long dreamed of an unforgettable vacation, it’s time to go to Kefalonia: there are so many attractions on this small island that it will be enough for several trips.
Kefalonia is a beautiful island in the Ionian Sea, with a rich history and beautiful beaches. Tourists come here in search of an unusual holiday, acquaintance with ancient culture and vivid impressions. There are beautiful quiet bays and centers of beach recreation and entertainment, preserved ancient buildings and mysterious caves, beautiful nature and modern service.
The area of Kefalonia is more than 780 square kilometers. It is located between Lefkada and Zakynthos, in the very center of the Ionian Sea. Therefore, Kefalonia's weather is warm and humid all year round. In summer, the average air temperature is +32°, and the water warms up to +26°. In January, the thermometer rarely drops below +14°, while sea water warms up to +16°.
In Kefalonia (Greece), the weather is favorable for the tourist season to last throughout the year. You can relax on the beach from April to October inclusive. The rest of the time, not everyone will risk taking a dip in the cool water. But this time you can visit a variety of excursions in Kefalonia.
Village of Assos
How to get to Kefalonia
You can get to the island by air or water. There is one airport here that accepts domestic flights within Greece - regular and charter from Europe.
How to get from Athens to Kefalonia? By plane only: flights operate all year round. During the summer, Kefalonia Airport receives flights from Corfu and Zakynthos.
You can get here by ferry almost all year round from the cities of Sami, Killini, Argostoli, Poros. The Kefalonia – Zakynthos ferry runs only in summer.
Inside, the main transport is buses. They connect almost all populated areas. Buses run every day except Sunday - keep this in mind when planning your travel route around Kefalonia. The fare ranges from 1 to 5 EUR, depending on the length of the route.
Petani Beach
Another type of local transport is a taxi: Kefalonia offers quite affordable prices and the opportunity to book a transfer from the airport on a budget.
Car rental in Kefalonia is a common service; you can arrange it right at the airport. There are companies that rent a car and deliver it to the client within 15 km. It is convenient to travel around Kefalonia by car, and if desired, you can load it on board a ferry: often water transport provides such services for private transport and taxis. Driving around the island by car is convenient: you don’t need to adapt to the traffic schedule, you can break away at any time and go to see the next attraction. Or drive further away in search of a secluded beach.
It’s worth renting a car if you’re traveling to Kefalonia with children: the little one will be comfortable in a car with air conditioning, and you can go to the hotel or have lunch at any time.
In Kefalonia, the roads are suitable for traveling by bicycle and moped: almost the entire local population travels this way. Visitors, wanting to save money on renting a car in Kefalonia, often also choose two-wheeled transport.
Argostoli
Where to stay
How to get to the island of Kefalonia on your own? The easiest way to fly is from Athens. If you are vacationing in Greece, you can devote 1-2 days to visiting this island. If you are not initially planning a trip to Kefalonia, you should take care of overnight accommodation in advance.
The cost of living here depends on the area and the distance from the coastline. At the same time, even the most budget hotels on the island of Kefalonia offer a high level of service and luxurious rooms.
The largest hotel complex is located in the town of Lassi, near beaches with golden sands. There are quiet hotels for families with children and a corresponding beach. Hotel Lassi is located 300 meters from the sea and has its own swimming pool. From here to the airport is only 5 kilometers.
Before booking a room, read reviews about hotels in Kefalonia. The low level of service here is nonsense. But if you are looking for a quiet option, away from noisy parties, finding such a hotel is quite possible. You can also rent a room in a villa or an apartment.
Hotel Maria Anna in Trapezaki is surrounded by a picturesque garden, located near the sea. Guests can use the grill. There is a restaurant and grocery store on site.
Listostrotos (Bobble Street) in Argostoli
What to see in Kefalonia Island?
There are many sights and interesting places here, which you can wander around from morning until night.
Kefalonia Island: Attractions to see:
Village of Assos
Miracle with snakes in Kefalonia
Miracles on the island of Kefalonia are associated with the mysterious icon of the Virgin Mary. Many years ago, she was found on a tree after a fire, safe and sound. Several times it was transferred to the church, but the icon mysteriously disappeared, after which it was found in the roots of a burnt tree. Later a church was built here. One day the temple was attacked by pirates. But mysteriously snakes appeared around the building. Since then, in Kefalonia, the Assumption of the Virgin Mary (August 15) has been accompanied by the appearance of snakes in the temple in this church of Kefalonia. If they do not appear, this indicates impending troubles, most often an approaching earthquake.
Wild beach in the northern part of the island
Local beaches
Looking at the map of Kefalonia with beaches, you will see that they are located almost along the entire perimeter of the island. They are in every city, near every major beach resort. Usually the hotel is a stone's throw from the beach. But in some places it is prohibited to build any buildings at a distance of 5 km from the water line - it is better to get to such beaches by rented car or bicycle.
Xi Beach
Myrtos Beach (Kefalonia) has a UNESCO award as the cleanest and most beautiful. There is a very high level of security here, so among the vacationers there are many families with children. And in the evening, the coast is flooded with sunset light, which makes it incredibly beautiful.
Popular local beaches include Xi, Atisamos, Skalou.
Kefalonia's nudist beaches are usually located behind the cliffs. Some of them can only be reached by water - for this you will have to rent a boat.
Foki Beach
Enjoy your holiday on the island of Kefalonia: excursions to interesting places
A sightseeing tour of the island is the easiest way to see absolutely all the sights of Kefalonia and take photos of memorable places. The main routes begin with a visit to the caves, which are the pride of the island.
Other popular routes include:
- Excursion to the monastery of St. Gerasimos;
- Visit to the Robolla winery with tasting;
- Sea cruise around the coast of Onassis's Dream.
The average cost of excursions is from 50 to 300 EUR, depending on the duration and route.
