Breathtaking Kefalonia
We flew from Bristol Airport, and in just under four hours, we landed in Kefalonia. After picking up our hire car (definitely essential for exploring), we made our way to Svoronata, a peaceful village just 10 minutes from the airport. We stayed at the Avithos Resort Hotel, a boutique, Boho-style hotel surrounded by beautiful gardens, offering a relaxed and peaceful atmosphere—exactly what we needed for a restful stay.
Every evening, we strolled to Esperides Restaurant, just a two-minute walk away. Nestled in an orange grove, this place served homemade, traditional Greek food, and it quickly became our favourite spot. The setting was perfect, with a relaxed vibe and delicious meals that felt like they were made with love.
For beaches, we were lucky to have a variety of options nearby. Ammes Beach, just a 10-minute walk down a dirt track from the hotel, was a lovely, quiet spot with soft sand and calm waters. The beach had cheap loungers with umbrellas available for hire, and there was a small rustic bar serving drinks and snacks, making it perfect for a laid-back day by the sea. The beach is very peaceful, offering safe swimming, making it ideal for families or anyone looking for a quiet place to unwind.
We also visited Lourdas Beach, a quieter spot with stunning views of the mountains, and of course, Myrtos Beach—Kefalonia’s most famous beach. Known for its dramatic cliffs and crystal-clear waters, Myrtos is especially renowned for its striking turquoise seas and white sand. It’s a picture-perfect spot that’s just as breathtaking in person as it looks in photos. However, please check the weather conditions before visiting the beach, because the sea can be too rough for swimming.
The island is full of beautiful places to visit. We made the short drive to Argostoli, the island’s historical capital. This bustling town has a rich history, with Venetian influence still visible in its architecture and layout. Argostoli was established by the Venetians in the 16th century and later developed into Kefalonia’s cultural and administrative centre. We enjoyed a stroll along the waterfront, taking in the views, and had a few drinks in the cafés. Argostoli is also home to the Korgialenios Library, which houses important manuscripts and documents related to the island's past.
Fiscardo was another highlight—this picturesque fishing village in the north is full of charm, with pastel buildings and a laid-back atmosphere. It’s also the most well-preserved village on the island, largely due to its survival through the devastating 1953 earthquake that destroyed much of Kefalonia. The town has a rich Venetian history, with buildings dating back to the 18th century, which you can still see today in its architecture. Today it is a vibrant tourist resort, with an array of lovely restaurants that frame the very pretty harbour.
We also made our way to Assos, a small village with a beautiful Venetian Castle. The history of Assos goes back to the 16th century when the Venetians built the castle to protect the island from invaders. The town was once the capital of Kefalonia before being moved to Argostoli. We hiked up to the castle, and the panoramic views of the island were absolutely worth the climb!
Another special destination on our trip was the Meliassani Cave Lake or the cave of the nymphs, formed by a collapsed limestone roof, the cave houses mesmerizing turquoise waters which are especially astonishing when the sun is shining through. it was a truly magical experience taking a boat trip through the cave. I would definitely recommend it.
Driving around the island is a real treat. The roads are well-maintained, but they can be a bit hair-raising at times—winding, narrow roads with steep drops make for an exciting (and sometimes nerve-wracking) drive. Still, the stunning views at every turn make it all worthwhile. Just try and avoid the mountain goats!
Our week in Kefalonia was everything I wanted from a holiday: relaxing, scenic, and filled with Greek charm. If you’re looking for a place to unwind, explore, and experience traditional island life, Kefalonia should be at the top of your list. I’d love to help you plan your own trip to this incredible island.