Move over Mykonos and slide across Santorini because when it comes to an elegant holiday to Greece, Kefalonia ticks all the boxes. Utterly laidback and beautifully unspoiled by mass tourism, Kefalonia is an island that has been blessed by the Greek Gods and one sweeping glance across the landscape will tell you everything you need to know. Home to the third-largest mountain range in the country, scenic beauty is in abundance from the warm blue waters that are home to a treasure trove of marine wildlife to the pretty pebbled beaches flanked by verdant forests full of majestic trees and plants. Every area of Kefalonia is sun-kissed and has so much to offer – think Blue Flag beaches, delectable cuisine, fascinating architecture and so much more. While Greece is famed for its island-hopping this Ionian gem will have you wanting to stay put. A destination unto itself, all the resorts and villages in Kefalonia are worth a visit so all you have to do is follow our trusty guide – you’ll be down the harbour with the locals before you know it.
Poros
Picture-perfect Poros is perched on Kefalonia’s south-east coast, a charming village that’s almost in its own little world. Once a thriving tourist hub in the early 1980s when Kefalonia originally welcomed organised tourism, Poros is now slower-paced and wonderfully traditional, making it the ideal village for those who want to relax and escape the stresses of daily life. Poros still has a working port that connects to the mainland, home to a number of impressive-looking yachts bobbing in the bay and the occasional docked cruise ship which deposits a fresh arrival of eager tourists. The harbour is the heart of the village and is where visitors can experience the hustle and bustle of local trade and fishing activities as well as plenty of cosmopolitanism with the bars, restaurants and shops.
Poros is surrounded by some of the most diverse flora and fauna in Greece, and its undoubtedly the ideal location to embrace the beauty of nature. Everywhere you turn you’ll find lush woods and forests abundant with evergreens, oaks and cypress trees, striking orchards, verdant fields and plenty of calm streams and rivers that flow effortlessly into the aquamarine sea. Wander along the multiple walking trails and admire the aromatic herbs and bushes that line the countryside and find yourself on a white pebble beach. Unspoiled and void of loud crowds, every beach in Poros is the perfect setting for a relaxing day in the sun. Aragia Beach is a must-visit thanks to its crystal-clear waters ideal for snorkelling, the picturesque white sands, and plenty of bars where beverages can be brought down straight to your sunbed. Finish up your sunshine session with a touch of al fresco waterside dining at one of the surrounding tavernas followed by a sunset stroll along the laidback promenade.
The region is the perfect place for the authentic Grecian experience, boasting beautiful landscapes, traditional tavernas and architectural wonders - all of which are embodied by Olympic Holidays' exclusive Poros on the Beach concept. Collating three traditional self-catering apartment complexes by the beach, this glorious holiday package provides you with your very own sunbed reserved on the shore, as well as access to a shared swimming pool with a bar. A half-board "Dine Around" option is also available whereby guests can enjoy breakfast off-site and the choice of either lunch or dinner at local participating tavernas for an authentic culinary feast.
Lassi
Lassi is the largest resort on Kefalonia with a big personality to match. Here is where both adventure and relaxation come together in perfect harmony, suitable for families and couples alike with plenty to keep every visitor occupied. Just 20-minutes from the airport and three kilometres from the Argostoli capital, Lassi’s main base is the lively strip which is packed full of stylish bars, delicious restaurants and multiple attractions and amenities. Explore the squares and courtyards, wander down to the marina and stroll along the palm-lined promenade before admiring the famous Drapano Bridge and visiting the fascinating archaeological museums.
Your first stop in Lassi will undoubtedly be the beach. Located on the south-west of Kefalonia and the biggest resort on the island, here is where you can find some of the most beautiful stretches of sand whether you want to be adventurous with some watersports or simply take it easy with a lounge on the shore. The star attraction is the due of beaches, Makris Yialos (Greek for long, sandy beach) and Platis Yialos (translating to wide sandy beach) which both boast all the amenities you’d expect on a stellar beach from sun beds to snack bars. If you’re seeking something a little more secluded, travel southbound down the coast to discover a cluster of quiet coves that are just as heavenly.
Argostoli
The beating heart of Kefalonia! Argostoli is the island’s capital standing on the far end of the island’s natural bay and engulfed on all sides by imposing mountains and majestic forests. After the devasting earthquake in 1953 that destroyed the entire capital, its beautiful Venetian houses and other surrounding villages, Argostoli completely reinvented itself to become a thriving hub for lovers of the exciting Greek holiday. The summer season is when the area truly shines, basked in warm heat with colourful sands and pebble that twinkle with the sunlight. Visitors will feel as if they’ve stepped directly into paradise, and there are plenty of activities and attractions available to make their Kefalonia adventure one they’ll never forget.
The main town is designed amphitheatrically in a traditional Grecian layout to overlook the breathtaking Koustavos lagoon which shimmers hues of blue and green whenever it’s caught by the sun and is draped by the large Drapona Bridge. The gorgeous architecture continues with the charming churches and neoclassical buildings, providing an essence of quaint traditionalism while still offering a cosmopolitanism edge. The working port is a sight to behold so be sure to walk by early in the morning to witness the melodic bartering between local business owners and fisherman as they sell the freshest fish and seafood you’ll ever taste. A spot of sightseeing is a must, from the Museum of Archaeology and the Historical and Cultural Museum to the Korgialenios Library and the magical Katavothres caves. But, if you’ve come to Argostoli for the beaches, shopping, cuisine (try the Kefalonian spinach pie, it’s heavenly) or the relaxation, you certainly won’t be disappointed.
Skala
Transformed from a small fishing village to a modern, diverse area, Skala is Kefalonia’s most popular resort – and for good reason. Lively and exciting without being loud and obnoxious, Skala offers the very best of a Greek holiday from the stunning hotels and family-run apartments to pictureseque beaches and plenty of adventure. Find everything you could possibly need in the contemporary main village before taking a step back and spend hours getting lost in the maze of narrow cobblestoned streets in the original fishing village. Here is where you’ll pass locals playing cards outside tavernas, quaint boutiques for that unique souvenir and small fishing huts that have stood the test of time. Keep walking until you reach the outskirts of the village and you’ll find a 3rd century ancient Roman villa that’s definitely worth the visit for the gorgeous preserved mosaic tiles. Discover the remains of the Temple of Apollo which dates back to 600 BC and climb up to the top of the surrounding hills to discover the ruins of the original Skala village which is also a fantastic photo opportunity for Instagram-worthy snaps of the spine-tingling landscape.
Blue Flag beaches of both sand and shingle are surrounded by neck-craning pine trees which give off a sweet aroma that fills the air while you either relax, swim or get your adrenaline fix with the likes of paragliding and jet-skiing. The attractive waterfront lined with tavernas, bars and the occasional nightclub attract those of all ages to Skala, but beach lovers and adorers of nature will certainly be in their element here. If you ever need an escape from the hustle and bustle of the main resort. Head to the fields and hills to roam alongside the goats and sheep that run free and walk the numerous winding trails through the valleys and marvel at the vineyards, orange and olive groves and the endless amount of fig trees. Oh, and don’t forget to visit Potamaki beach on the coast which has been declared a conservation area due to the rare loggerhead turtles that lay their eggs on the sand.
Fiskardo
A visit to Fiskardo will feel as if you've stepped directly into a fairytale. Perfectly picturesque, you'll be enchanted from the moment you arrive as you gaze at the luxurious yachts and fishing boats swaying gently in the ocean breeze, marvel at the rugged hillsides abundant with cypress trees and the white pebble beaches that shine brilliantly against the backdrop of striking Venetian buildings. Fiskardo is located in the north of Kefalonia and was a former fishing village which has now been transformed into a lovely cosmopolitan resort popular among tourists - you might even spot an A-lister or two if you're lucky!
While the modern feel engulfs the main town, there remains an essence of stepping back in time as you navigate the narrow alleys, stop in for a bite to eat at the family-run tavernas, shop for souvenirs in the charming boutiques and visit the small cultural museum at the top of the harbour. By night, Fiskardo transforms. The gorgeous waterfront is illuminated by the twinkling stars and the hubbub of visitors who flock to the many bars and attractions that come alive when the sun comes down. Whether you're here to stay or just for the day, Fiskardo is a must while on holiday in Kefalonia so certainly hire a car or embark on a local excursion to this glorious location.
There’s no such thing as a single visit to Kefalonia – with so many striking resorts and villages to explore, it’s truly impossible. With Olympic Holidays, every holiday dream is made a reality so allow us to take you on an adventure to this Ionian paradise to create memories you’ll look back on for years to come.