Kefalonia holidays

With its rugged mountains, lush vineyards and golden beaches, Kefalonia is a picture-book island paradise. Lakes and caves will draw you in, with the promise of immersing yourself within the setting of Captain Corelli’s Mandolin, while feta-covered foods and traditional snacks are must-eat local sources of fuel.

Popular Kefalonia Holiday Resorts

Kefalonia Holidays, Myrtos Beach, Greece

Sotiris Hotel

Svoronata, Kefalonia

Our rating

Recently renovated
Peaceful location
Friendly service

Niriides Hotel Kefalonia

Skala, Kefalonia

Our rating

Based on 92 reviews

Relaxed atmosphere
Great for families
Close to village centre
Spacious apartments
Small and friendly

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Language

Greek

Currency

Euro

Time difference

+2hrs

Cost of a beer

from €3 a bottle

3 course meal

around €25

Flight times

3.5hrs

Hollywood looks

The largest of the Ionian Islands, Kefalonia is also one of the most unspoiled. Its coast is lined with sandy beaches and dramatic white cliffs, while the middle of the island is covered in mountains and vineyards. No wonder it was used as a major film backdrop!

A laid-back break

Life in Kefalonia moves at a relaxed pace. Skala’s the liveliest spot on the island, but even here the evenings tend to revolve around sunset cocktails rather than full-on club crawls. Daytimes are devoted to countryside strolls or soaking up the sun on the island’s ample sands.

Sublime sights

Some of the island’s most popular sights are naturally occurring – the stalagmite-filled Drogarati Cave is one of the biggest and most dazzling highlights. But you’ll also find Roman ruins, Venetian castles and medieval monasteries to potter around, or simply explore the rugged scenery coating this remarkable region.

Svoronata

Lying on the western coast of Kefalonia, Svoronata is one of the most peaceful resorts on the entire island.

Lassi

Enjoy the laid-back vibes of Lassi – set up camp and begin to explore the island of Kefalonia.

Skala

With its traditional tavernas and Blue Flag beach, it’s no wonder Skala is one of the most sought-after resorts in Kefalonia.

Lourdas

You’ll always have the opportunity to unwind in Lourdas.

Lixouri

Embrace laid-back life in the charming town of Lixouri.

Trapezaki

This rural resort is all about showing off its tranquil bay.

Sami

Along the eastern edge of Kefalonia, Sami has bagged the lion’s share of beautiful beaches.

Lakithra

This popular village in the Livatho area is a great base for exploring.

Spartia

Embrace the local pace on a relaxing getaway in Spartia.

Karavados

This teeny-tiny toy-box Greek village is a real display of traditional island life, with its colourful church, glowing gardens and handful of fresh food joints.

Argostoli

Modern and cosmopolitan, Argostoli provides the culture of an island capital together with the local warmth of a smaller resort – it’s a real treasure trove.

Peratata

Nestled on the southern tip of Kefalonia, this chilled-out village isn’t far from the capital.

Beaches

Madeira is dotted with small, secluded beaches made from natural volcanic sand, so they’re all pretty unique. There’s a peaceful spot 25 minutes’ drive from Funchal, and over in Machico, the island’s second-biggest town, you’ll discover a manmade golden-sand beach that’s great for kids. Just pick a place!

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Sights

The island’s famous for its flowers. You’ll find out why at the Botanical Gardens in Funchal. These sit right on a hillside, so you’ll also get some unbeatable views of the city. But if you want pure and simple culture, there are many museums, galleries and monasteries to explore.

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Agios Gerasimos

Lassi, Kefalonia

On a hill overlooking Lassi you’ll find the Cave of Agios Gerasimos, where the patron saint of the island once lived for five years. A small church has been built here in his honour as well as the monastery of...

St.George's Castle

Peratata, Kefalonia

Perched above the village of Peratata you’ll discover the Castle of Saint George, originally built in the 12th century. The castle has Byzantine and Venetian features and although it stands mostly in ruins, it...

Activities

The natural lava pools in Porto Moniz are a natural phenomenon you won’t find elsewhere. Take a swim and enjoy the beautiful mountain scenery. Madeira’s levada walks are the real hillside heroes of this archipelago, while whale and dolphin watching is every bit as jaw-dropping as you’d imagine.

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Koutavos Lagoon

Argostoli, Kefalonia

The lagoon at the head of Argostoli Bay is a nature reserve and a lovely place to hang out. You can take a boat trip out on the water and if you’re lucky, see Caretta-Caretta sea turtles. Or take a stroll round...

Agia Efimia

Kefalonia

This pretty harbour village surrounded by pebbly beaches has an atmosphere of traditional Greek hospitality. It’s a popular stop off for sailing boats and there are some great waterside cafes and tavernas. You...

Eating and drinking

You’ll find bolo do caco – a type of bread served warm with garlic butter and parsley – on pretty much every menu. And you can’t go home without trying some of the world-famous Madeira wine, with its smooth, sweet notes. Tuck into catch of the day as you drink in stunning coastal views.

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Vallianos Square

Argostoli, Kefalonia

The beating heart of Argostoli is the pleasant Vallianos Square, named after local boy-done-good and benefactor Panagis Vallianos. There’s a statue of him at the top end. This is where locals come and mingle...

A nice selection of bars and restaurants

Skala, Kefalonia

This Greek resort was once a sleepy fishing village, and as such you can still expect to feast on delicious fresh fish at its many great-quality restaurants. Authentic Greek delicacies are, of course, a given...

Shopping

Funchal has plenty of charming boutiques selling local handicrafts, but there are major malls across the resorts of Madeira. Browse your favourite high street stores, or even opt for a more hands-on shopping experience. The local markets are great for picking up a few bargains and souvenirs.

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A souvenir hunter's dream

Skala, Kefalonia

If you’re looking for souvenirs, you won’t go home empty-handed. The shops along the main street will sort you out with local specialities like handmade ceramics, embroidered linen, leather goods and olive oil...

Beachside essentials

Lixouri, Kefalonia

Whether it’s sun cream, toothpaste or a beach towel, there’s always something you forget to bring on holiday. You can easily find these everyday items and more on Lixouri’s main street. But explore the...

Nightlife

Madeira’s nightlife is mainly centred on Funchal. Head down to the marina for tapas and cocktails, or go downtown and check out one of the clubs. If you’re feeling really flush, a night in the casino could see your luck change – or you could just enjoy over-ice tipples at least.

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