Cephalonia (Kefallinia) has a grandeur and majesty unrivalled in the Ionian, its sheer geology demands respect and exploration. From the towering black tree studded Mount Aenos to the dizzying cliffs and turquoise waters of Myrtos Bay the scenery is quite simply stunning, with breathtaking views waiting round every corner. For walking and driving in the country Cephalonia is a dream with small tranquil villages, hidden coves and beaches, and numerous picturesque harbours and fishing villages to discover.

As well as it’s natural beauty there is a sophistication and cosmopolitan air to the island which is born out of the islanders rich historical past, pursuit of knowledge and history of seafaring. The capital Argostoli boasts marble shopping streets, elegant cafes and bars, whilst the chic old venetian yachting village of Fiskardo buzzes with flotillas and celebrity yachts during the long hot summer months.

Historically Cephalonia or Kefallinia as the ancients named it is virtually a living history of the western world, having been occupied by every empire builder imaginable. The Romans, Venetians, French, Russians, and British have all left their mark, and their legacies can still be seen in the old fortresses, ruins, bridges and architecture. Then steeped even deeper in history there is the neighbouring island of Ithaca shrouded in mist and mythology.

More than anything Cephalonia is an island of contrasts from the lush green plains and sandy beaches of the south, strange beauty of Lixouri peninsula, to the magical charm of the mountain villages and turquoise sea in the North. It’s power and beauty will almost certainly impact on you straight away.

Prepare to be charmed


Things to do or see during your stay.

Mount Aenos
This is a national park area with it’s highest peak reaching 1,628 metres. Best to visit on a clear day when Zakynthos, Ithaca, Lefkada the gulf of Patras and Corfu can all be seen as if floating in an azure sea. There are a very rare breed of wild horses still inhabiting the park area, numbers seriously declined, especially over cold spell of Winter 2005.

Melissani lake
Beautiful underground lake, believed to have mythological links to worship of the God Pan. This is where water filters up from undergournd streams that run under the island.

Drogarti caves
Spectacular caverns with stalactites and stalactites, good idea to combine with visit to nearby Melissani lake.

Assos & it’s Castle
Assos is probably one of the most stunning locations for a village you will ever see. Perched on a thin isthmus between the mainland of Cephalonia and a sea locked mountain with a fortress. There is a Lovely walk to the Fortress, which takes around 45 mins, take lots of water, and remember your camera! It is not recommended to drive to the top.

Shopping on Lithostroto, Argostoli
The main capital Argostoli has a charming square and marble street which is well worth a visit to sip coffee in one of it’s many stylish cafes, or to shop along it’s famous street. Open 9-2.30 and then from 5.30-10.00. Bars and restaurants open til late.

Fiscardo by night
This chic yachting town comes to life in the evening, and you simply have to put on the glad rags and spend an evening dining in one of it’s many waterfront Tavernas!

Walking Treking
There are plenty of old trails and walks in the North of Cephalonia. Friends of the Ionian have several on their site that you can download. The municipality of Pylaros, has also compiled a leaflet on trails in the area, which can be picked up from the office on the waterfront in Agia Efimia.

Motor boat hire
Outboard motor boats can be hired from Fiscardo, Agia Efimia, and Assos. This is an especially fun way of visiting the more out of the way beaches and coves. Please note that the sea around Assos is prone to strong winds and the coastal area from Fiscardo is safer for taking out a day boat. You can also get across to Ithaca from here and moor up in Polis Bay. If you get the hance walk up into the village of Stavros turn right in square and visit the superb Polyphemus Taverna. Traditional homemade fayre in truly rustic surroundings. Steep walk up, can call taxis from bar on beach.

Skippered Day Charters
Day Yacht Charters can be booked from Fiscardo, to sail around th North of Cephalonia, Ithaca, Lefkas and smaller islands, please ask Peter for availability and prices, tel 6949174623

Private Motor boat charters
There are 2 large ribs in Fiscardo where you can organise personal excursions to the northern beaches and also the magical island of Ithaca, stopping in Kioni for lunch, or your own beach BBQ. Please call me for more information.

Jamies Marine Adventure
Sail around Northern Cephalonia on an old wooden Kaiki with Marine biologist Jamie and his crew, learn about the sea creatures of the Mediterranean, and also learn to snorkel, lunch freshly prepared on board.

Ferry boat to Itahca or Lefkas
Ferries leave daily from Fiscardo for both islands. Ask Anna or Nikos for timetables.

Car Hire
We can arrange competitive Car Hire for our guests with Nikos in Agia Efimia for delivery to the airport or your accommodation.


Beaches

Unlike the South of the island the North has no sandy beaches, however it has plenty of stunning bays and coves to explore, some are reachable only by boat, many are quiet even at the Height of the season.

Myrtos
Probably the most famous beach in Greece, and amongst the top ten in Europe. Turquoise bay, with white pebble and sand beach. Please watch the current here on windy days! There is a view point at the top from which to take photos.

Skala
Long stretch of sand, with sheltering trees to back of the beach. Skala is one of the main tourist destinations on the island.

Anti Samos
One of the famous locations for filming Captain Corellis mandolin, beautifully located with pine studded hills running down to azure sea. Visibility superb for snorkelling here!

St Fridays
Lovely beach with chilled out atmosphere off coastal raod from Agia Efimia to Sami. Lovely Bar and restaurant, grass runs down to beach and there are shady trees. Clear waters!

Alaties
Picturesque little beach, with pleasant Taverna. The beach gets it’s name from the salt that gathers on the rocks. Now used as sunbathing platforms.

Iouruslaem
Spectacular drive to this lesser known beach, scenery just like Cornwall! Taverna above the beach. Owner makes his own breads, cakes and Jams.

Yiayanna
Only for those who love extreme driving, as the beach is 6kms down an unmade track. Hair raising experience! Very quiet and lovely swimming.

Agia Sofia
Tarmac road leads to this picturesque little hamlet, with tiny beach and views to Ithaca. Great for walks and photo stop.

Foki
On the back road into Fiscardo, lovely spot with plenty of natural shade under the trees to the back of the beach. Great for snorkelling out to caves. Taverna above beach.

Emblisi
Lovely clear swimming water on this lovely beach, just before fiscardo on the left follow road to Emelisse Art Hotel. Snacks available from Wagon to back of beach.

Dafnoudi
Secret little bay, approached on foot through the woods. Ideal for nature lovers. Wear sturdy shoes on the way down! Take supplies with you.

Old Villages
If you feel like a journey back in time and want to visit some old villages, that still have old stone houses then the back road from vasiliakedes towards Agia Efimia passes through Plagia, Karia, Komitata. Also passes through surreal almost volcanic landscape and spectacular views to Ithaca. Look out for Goats!

Cashpoints, Agia Efimia and Fiscardo.
Please note that there are no facilities for changing money in Assos. So come prepared.