Kefalonia - island of sailors, an island of beaches where nymphs gather and miracles happen. The island got its name from the name of the hero Cephalus from ancient Greek mythology.
Kefalonia is the most big Island in the group of seven Ionian Islands. It is located between the islands of Zakynthos and Lefkada almost in the center of the Ionian Sea. The area of the island of Kefalonia is 671 sq. km, and the length of its coastline stretches for 250 km.
Since May 2013 to the island of Kefalonia first started direct weekly charter flights from Moscow, which, together with the already existing charters from St. Petersburg make the island of Kefalonia more accessible to tourists from Russia. Kefalonia is connected by air (30 minutes) and ferry (1.5 hours) communication.
Complex tours Zakynthos - Kefalonia are in particular demand for holidays on the islands of Greece, because you can fly to one island and fly away from vacation from another. The islands complement each other, and the impressions from tourist trip will be twice as much.
Holidays on the island of Kefalonia in Greece.
At first glance, Kefalonia is a mountainous and rugged island.. As you move along the serpentine road leading along the coast, landscapes of amazing landscapes open up around every turn. fabulous beauty: a sea of incredible blue, framed by rocky bays with beaches, and green islands of seaside villages. Vineyards, myrtle and olive groves with fluttering leaves of trees that make an almost metallic sound, as well as coastal towns with original moored yachts and small fishing boats, complete the landscape picture of the island of Kefalonia.
The island of Kefalonia captivates travelers with vine valleys, slopes with cypress alleys and pine air. Kefalonia immerses tourists in the atmosphere of relaxation and gives joy! The hospitality and cordiality of the inhabitants of Greece to the Russians proves that there is an invisible spiritual connection between the two countries.
Rest on the island of Kefalonia is distinguished by its regularity and tranquility.
Cities and resorts Kefalonia.
Capital of the island of Kefalonia city of Argostoli. 10 km from the capital is international Airport, which receives flights from Athens and charter flights.
The city of Argostoli was rebuilt after a devastating earthquake in 1953 with a magnitude of 7.2 on the Richter scale. Today, modern life is seething here, and at night, a vacation "party" is added at discos, clubs and bars.
Patron of the Island of Kefalonia Saint Gerasim who lived as a hermit in the cave of Katavotres, 2.5 km from the monastery near Argostoli.
Ferry services operate from the main port of Argostoli, as well as Sami, Poros and Fiskado.
Sami - the second port of the island and the main gate for ferries from Italy, Patras, Astakos and Lefkas. Port Sami became the main film set for the film "Captain Corelli's Mandolin" with the participation of N. Cage and P. Cruz.
Main resort towns islands of Kefalonia: Skala, Lixouri, Lassi.
The beach season on the island of Kefalonia lasts from May to mid-October. The highest summer air temperature is +35C in August.
The beaches on the island of Kefalonia are presented for every taste: from "wild" and secluded to noisy with a developed tourist infrastructure.
The best beaches of Kefalonia island.
- Myrtos - the most beautiful and photographed white in Greece sand and pebble beach with deep sea. It is included in the top 10 best beaches on the planet;
- Xi - a shallow beach with dense red sand, framed by limestone rocks with healing blue clay;
- Katelios - a long sandy beach;
- Makris Gialos and Platys Gialos (4 km from the capital Argostoli);
- Antisamos - near the port of Sami;
- Petani beach;
- Skala Beach is a long sandy beach near the town of Skala.
More than 20 beaches of Kefalonia have their own names, many of which are awarded " blue flag for cleanliness.
Hotels on the island Kefalonia.
Apartments and villas, small family hotels and luxury hotels 4 * and 5 * make up a significant part of the hotel map of the island of Kefalonia.
The best hotels for all categories of tourists: Cyprotel Kefalonia Garden Village 4*, Porto Scala Hotel Village 4*, Mediterranee 4*, Cephalonia Palace Hotel 4*, Utopia Resort & SPA 5*, Appolonion Resort & SPA 5*, White Rocks Hotel & Bungalows 5*.
Family holidays with children better to spend in Ionian hotel Sea Hotel and Aguapark 3*, where the club "SOLnechny circle" was created and animators-educators work.
Sights of the island of Kefalonia.
- Argostoli. Archaeological and ethnographic museums and an ancient multi-arch bridge;
- Mount Enos (1627 m) and Rudy (1130 m) are the natural attractions of the island. They are covered with a relic tree species of dark green color "black spruce", which grows only here. Enos mountain range national reserve, with an area of 1973 hectares;
- The resort village and port of Agia Efimia is a vacation spot for lovers of diving and yachting;
- Lixouri. Jacob's Palace with a library, the ruins of ancient Pali;
- Fiskardo - a fishing harbor with ancient architecture, the only one not affected by the 1953 earthquake;
- Melissana - a cave on the lake, which can only be accessed from a boat;
- Drongarati Cave (Dragon House) is one of the longest descents of 44 meters, which ends in a cave hall with excellent acoustics, where concerts can be held. The cave fascinates with stalactites up to 300 meters long;
- Assos. Venetian fortress 16th century;
- Castro is the medieval capital of the island.
What to bring as a gift from the island of Kefalonia? Great mood, video and photo! Honey, Robola wine, Feta cheese, quince and almond sweets and olive oil.
Excursions in Kefalonia from private guides and travel agencies.
Online order on Pomogator.Travel: no intermediaries and prepayments!
Kefalonia- the largest of all the Ionian Islands, located opposite Patras and an ideal place for those who love to relax in Greece. The area of the island of Kefalonia is 900 sq.m, the capital is Argostoli. The main cities are Lixouri, rebuilt after the devastating earthquake of 1953. and the new port city of Sami.
The island of Kefalonia got its name from the mythological hero Kefala, who took possession of the island and gave it his name. It is believed that it is from the handsome Kefala that Odysseus leads his family, legendary king the nearby island of Ithaca. The population of Kefalonia is only about 40 thousand people, the length of the coastline is 254 km. At the same time, Kefalonia is known for its wonderful nature, beautiful beaches, as well as such attractions as the monastery of St. Gerasimos, Mount Enos, the village of Fiskardo with Venetian architecture, etc.
The coasts with their bizarre outlines form many picturesque bays and capes. Of the most famous, one can note the bay to Sami, Myrtos, Lourdes, Argostoli and Livadia. The coast of the island on the Ionian side is mainly composed of sheer cliffs, while East End The coast of Kefalonia has soft mainland outlines.
The island of Kefalonia is famous for its caves - such as an underground cave and at the same time a bottomless lake Melissani, Drogkarati cave, etc. Attractive for tourists in Kefalonia, of course, is the most beautiful beach - Myrtos, which is located in the northwestern part of the island. This beach has been repeatedly recognized as the best Greek sea, as well as the best beach Mediterranean. The western part of the island of Kefalonia (Paliki) can rightly be proud of the Petani beach, which is not inferior in beauty to Myrtos.
Video from Kefalonia
Kefalonia is rich in attractions and interesting places. For example, the National Reserve, which is the majestic mountain range ENOS. This is the most high peak islands (about 1628m). Numerous plants growing here are listed in the Red Book, since their number is extremely small - these are some violets, rare species ...
O. Kefalonia Tours and Activities
Kefalonia is still untouched by mass tourism, however, tourists are offered here interesting routes. For instance, sightseeing tour across Kefalonia. It covers all the most important sights of the island: Myrtos, Katavotres, the castle on the Asos peninsula. Lunch and some free time in Fiskardo are provided. After lunch, guests will visit unique caves Melissani and Drogarati, a visit to the monastery of St. Gerasimos and a visit to the Robolla winery with a mandatory tasting. The duration of the trip is approximately 8 hours, it starts at 9:00, ends approximately at 17:00.
Cruise on the water "Dreams of Onassis". It gives a unique opportunity to visit three islands and get in touch with the history of the Onassis family. The excursion starts on the island of Kefalonia in the port of Sami, from which pleasure boats head north of the village of Fiskardo. The first in the program is the island of Meganisi - in the village of Spartochori you can enjoy a charming view of the islands of Madouri and Skorpios. The latter is privately owned, but tourists will have the opportunity to swim in the clear emerald waters. On the island of Lefkada, in the port of Nydri, it is provided for lunch and shopping.
Tour from Kefalonia to Ithaca. Starts from the hotel, on a comfortable bus, tourists go to the port of Sami, where they transfer to the ferry going to this legendary island, which occupies an honorable place in Greek history. The guide during the tour will remind you of the travels of Odysseus, sung at one time by Homer. First, guests will get acquainted with the capital of the island - Vathi, located on the shore of a very beautiful bay, in the center of which is a small island of Lazaretto. In the north-east of the island, the village of Kioni, the pearl of the island, is built. And in the village of Stavros, where there is a bust of the ancient Greek hero Odysseus, you can taste local sweets.
Another exciting excursion is a visit to the Monastery of St. Gerasimos, who is the patron saint of the island. The program also includes a tour of the winery "Rubola" and tasting of local wines, the magnificent stalactite cave Drogaratti. Guests are sure to have lunch and a walk in the city of Sami. In time, such an excursion will be about 7-8 hours.
History of Kefalonia
Historical studies of Kefalonia have shown that the island was inhabited even in the Paleolithic era. The first people to inhabit it were the Leleges, a Greek tribe that lived there from the 15th century BC. The Lelegs worshiped the pagan god Poseidon, the king of the sea. The history of Kefalonia, thanks to the events held on …
The climate in Kefalonia belongs to the Mediterranean climate zone, which is characterized by hot and dry summers and rainy mild winters. In August, the air warms up to +35°С, and the average temperatures of the island of Kefalonia vary from +37°С in summer (the highest temperatures) to +5°С in winter (the lowest temperatures). A more detailed picture of the island's climate can be seen by looking. Kefalonia is also characterized by the absence of strong winds, even in summer.
The most favorable time to go to the island of Kefalonia is from May to September. At this time, the water in the sea is already warm enough and no sharp drop temperatures day and night. In October it is still warm, but in the early morning and at night it already becomes much cooler.
O. Things to do in Kefalonia
On Kefalonia there are many interesting offers for outdoor enthusiasts. And although the main entertainment for tourists from all countries remains beach holiday and sightseeing, active entertainment is always of interest to travelers. On Xi Beach, for example, vacationers are offered to rent jet skis, water skis and parachutes. Here you can ride a canoe, play tennis or basketball, ride a horse, go fishing.
Each resort of Kefalonia has traditional tourist destinations entertainment venues, nightclubs, restaurants and markets filled with local flavor that will pleasantly surprise shoppers. For fans of diving in Kefalonia, there is also entertainment to their liking - diving into crystal clear waters and exploring the beauties of the local underwater world. If desired, you can rent a yacht or boat in the port to enjoy the beauties of the island from the sea, to visit interesting places that are accessible only by water.
At the end of summer and before the beginning of autumn, travelers who can get to the embankment of the city of Argostoli will be able to see and capture the most interesting sea turtles "Carriage Carriage", which annually sail to the shores of Kefalonia. For those who are close to eco-tourism and outdoor walks, the main objects of excursions are amazing caves and grottoes, ancient rocks and beautiful beaches. You can also see the bottomless lake-cave Melissani, formed as a result of an earthquake. There, travelers will be offered to go down into the cave to admire the crystal clear underground lake, the water of which has a unique bright blue hue.
Transport features of Kefalonia
The main coastal towns and villages of Kefalonia are connected by bus service. It is characterized by irregularity, as a result of which tourists are the least likely to travel by bus. The best option is to rent a car, motorcycle or bicycle. The majority of Rent-a-car bureaus are located in Lassi and Argostoli. Taxi prices are low and it is always possible to ask the driver to pick you up at the appointed time from any point on the island.
From Argostoli bus station (located on the southern promenade), up to 11 buses a day towards Lassi (fare €1), 4 buses per day to Sami (fare €2.50), two buses to Poros (fare €4.50) , and two buses to Skala (€4.50) and to Fiskardo (travel €5). The east coast of Kefalonia is also connected by bus routes, but more rare. They run between Katelios and Poros, Sami, Skala, Agia Efimia and the village of Fiskardo. Buses do not operate on Sunday.
Ferries run between Argostoli and Lixouri almost every hour (during the season), they take cars on board (work from 7:30 to 22:30). The journey takes about 30 minutes and costs 1.6/4/1 Euro per person/car/motorcycle. In Agia Efimii, you can rent a boat and visit secluded beaches on it. From Skala in the summer, 2 buses depart in the mornings to the capital - Argostoli; In winter, the bus runs only once a day. The return bus Argostoli-Skala leaves in the afternoon, as most shops in the capital of the island close at 2 pm.
The largest in the Ionian archipelago. Travelers come here in search of cultural experiences, and the island fully rewards those who are tired of all-inclusive secular holidays.
Nature in Kefalonia has tried to create a maximum of beautiful views and natural attractions. Climbing the mountains, you can see the unique pine forests like no other in the world.
You will see a breathtaking panoramic view with golden beaches, numerous coves, the purest deep blue water.
The water off the coast of the island is considered one of the cleanest and safest, so fur seals, turtles, dolphins and numerous representatives of the underwater kingdom feel great here.
To some lucky people who take long walks around the island and the local National park, manages to meet wild horses, beautiful and graceful creatures.
In Kefalonia, cafes, fish markets, shops and souvenir shops are not scattered in all corners. But vacationers will be able to see and touch the architectural and natural attractions that carry incredible energy.
Among the local treasures: caves, underground lakes, grottoes, ancient mountain monasteries, historical buildings of the Venetian, Roman, period of early Christianity.
The major cities of the island are Lixouri and Argostoli (the capital).
Fortress of St. George
Fortress of St. George, one of the most famous and most visited historical buildings of the island, is located 7 km from the current capital.
Once a majestic castle-fort and a developed administrative center of Kefalonia, today it is a ruin heavily damaged by numerous earthquakes.
The first official mention of the fortification of these places dates back to the 12th century. In the 16th century, the Byzantines rebuilt the castle in the style in which it has survived to this day.
The construction site was not chosen by chance: the powerful walls of the fort perfectly protected the locals from pirate raids. The total area of the polygonal building is 16,000 sq.m.
In the past, life was seething here. Behind the strong walls of the castle, city and administrative houses, churches, hospitals, and prisons were built. After strong natural disasters, the inhabitants of the fort gradually moved to another part of the island, founding Argostoli.
Monastery of St. Gerasimos - the pearl of Greece
The monastery was founded by St. Gerasimos in the middle of the 16th century in the central part of the island and named by him "New Jerusalem".
The building was badly damaged during an earthquake in the middle of the last century, and was later rebuilt. A cave-cell and a garden, laid out by the Saint himself, have survived to this day.
The relic of the monastery is the incorruptible relics of St. Gerasimos, who was canonized in the 17th century.
Every year, on the day of remembrance, which falls on August 16, a service is held in the temple and relics are carried over people suffering from various ailments.
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It is believed that the monk retained his gift as a healer even after his death, which he possessed during his lifetime.
On October 20, the inhabitants of the island celebrate the official state holiday in honor of St. Gerasimos.
Venetian castle
The castle attracts the attention of antiquities hunters with an interesting history and beautiful views that open from the side of the almost destroyed walls.
Once excellent protectors of the locals, now these are impressive ruins stretching for several kilometers.
Behind them you can see the beautiful expanse of the sea and the popular Myrtos beach.
Not far from the ruins of the castle, which became the scene of a fierce battle between the Russians and the French at the end of the 18th century, lies the fabulous village of Asos. It was she who was once surrounded by the stone walls of the Venetian castle.
Those who come to see the castle do not miss the opportunity to walk along the old narrow streets of the village, admire the low houses with red roofs, as if grown into a rocky shore.
Asos and Myrtos beach
Overgrown with cypresses and old pines, the village of Asos has about 100 inhabitants. But all year round tourists come here who want to appreciate the well-known hospitality and cuisine of the village.
Colorful taverns and cozy cafes of Asos are located in the central part of the village and on the waterfront.
Not far from Asos and the ruins of the Venetian castle is the pearl of the island and National treasure country - Myrtos beach.
It is marked with the UNESCO Blue Flag, which since the last century has been awarded to beaches and marinas, the waters of which correspond to the most stringent and high standards cleanliness and safety. The beach reveals all its luxury and beauty during sunset, travelers wait for the evenings on purpose.
There are many on the island underground caves. Famous and visited is the Melissani cave with a huge hole at the top, through which sunlight penetrates into the grotto, dissipating in the waters of the underground lake located here.
The water in the lake is clear to the very bottom. Tourists are taken on boats and given the opportunity to see with their own eyes the magic happening in the lake waters.
V different time days, their color changes, shimmering from delicate turquoise to green, from deep blue to black.
Drogarati Cave is one of the oldest and deepest in the region, its approximate age has exceeded 150 million years. The cave goes 60 meters deep into the ground, inside it keeps a constant temperature of 18 degrees.
Drogarati was discovered by accident, more than 3 centuries ago, after a strong earthquake that destroyed one of the parts of the grotto and opened the entrance.
The main attractions of the cave are created by herself. Numerous stalactites and stalagmites, whose height reaches 2 meters, have been growing in Drogarati for thousands of years!
Enos National Park
The property of Kefalonia and all of Greece, which deserves the attention of vacationers, is national park Enos.
On its territory is located the most high point of the entire Ionian archipelago, Mount Megolos Soros.
On the slopes of the mountain you can visit several important monasteries: St. Gerasim, St. Omal, St. Eleutheria. You can get to the park by car, and then walk and enjoy all natural beauties, rare representatives of fauna and flora.
In the park you can see rare Kefallinian fir or black pine, small purple violet growing in rocky crevices, arbutus and old oaks.
There are over 400 plant species in total. During a short hiking trip, you will definitely meet falcons, partridges, black woodpeckers, hazel grouses, and other birds.
This piece of land is a popular destination for those who want to see the real Greece with unspoiled landscapes, traditions and picturesque coastline. Before you is the island of Kefalonia - the largest of the Ionian Islands of Greece, and if you compare it with others Greek islands, then the influx of tourists here came at a later period. Only since 2001, after the release of the film "Captain Corelli's Choice", Kefalonia began to be included in the lists of "destinations to visit."
Kefalonia island, Greece: mountains and sea
Attractions of Kefalonia
Mountain villages immersed in greenery, Byzantine monasteries and natural attractions - Kefalonia is ready to offer tourists a rich program.
Photo www.iefimerida.gr/
Famous for magical beauty melissani cave. They don’t call it anything other than a miracle: for decades, the cave was carved by salt water in a limestone rock. One day, its arch partially collapsed, and the rays of the sun fall vertically through the hole formed, which seem to illuminate the azure water with elusive shades. In ancient times, Melissani was of particular importance. It was believed that nymphs lived here - this fact was established after the discovery of numerous cult figurines. Today, tourists ride boats on the transparent surface of the lake, looking at the ancient stalactites on the walls of Melissani.
The cave won no less popularity Drogarati. It is one of the most picturesque caves in Greece, famous for its large hall and stalagmites of incredible shapes. Excellent acoustics and capacity (almost 1000 people) make Drogarati not just a natural monument. Live concerts are regularly held here, the hall for them has a length of 65 m, a width of 45 m and a height of 20 m.
Concert in Drogarati Cave, Kefalonia. Photo www.kefalonias.gr
Enos National Park occupies a significant part of Kefalonia. Here grow species of coniferous trees unique to Greece. In addition to them, you can see orchids and several varieties of wildflowers. For lovers of long hiking In Enos, there are routes of varying length and complexity. On the territory of the park there are places for recreation (clearings and gazebos), but you need to take food with you. Since Enos is located at an altitude of 1600 m, it can be cool here - you should take care of suitable clothing.
Monastery of St. Gerasimos
Among the religious shrines of the island, the monastery of St. Gerasimos - the patron saint of Kefalonia. Saint Gerasimos was a descendant of a noble family and received a good education. Subsequently, he became a monk on Mount Athos and made a pilgrimage to Jerusalem, where he lived for 12 years.
In 1555, the monk Gerasim settled in Kefalonia and lived for the first five years as an ascetic in a cave near Lassi. In 1560, he moved to the mountains, to a dilapidated chapel, and founded a monastery here, which he called New Jerusalem. Now this monastery bears his name, stores many icons and is a place of pilgrimage - on August 16, the relics of St. Gerasim, hundreds of people come to bow. A plane tree, planted by Gerasim during his lifetime, has been preserved on the territory of the monastery. And next to the monastery there is a cave with two rooms, which were the home of the saint.
The beaches of Kefalonia are some of the best in Greece
Poros beach, Kefalonia. Photo www.iefimerida.gr/
The beaches of the island have long received worldwide recognition. The most popular of them is Myrtos, which is among the best in Greece. Myrtos is located at the foot of the mountains, surrounded by rocks and its shape resembles a crescent moon. The beach is covered with white pebbles. Here you can not only swim in the azure waters, but also enjoy a spectacular sunset or explore a small grotto. There is a snack bar on Myrtos, it is possible to rent a sun lounger. A road leads to the beach, where observation platforms meet.
Kefalonia has one of the most amazing beaches in Greece - Xi, which resembles the letter "Xi" in shape. It stretches for 4 km and is strewn with dark orange sand.
Xi beach, Kefalonia. Photo http://ionianinfo.com/
There are many taverns on the edge of the beach, and hotels are located nearby. Another beach - Skala - also cannot be ignored. It captivates with cleanliness and is suitable for boat trip to isolated bays.
The beach of Agia Jerusalem is located near Fiskardo and is named after the dilapidated church on the edge of the beach. The bay here is small and is divided in half by a rock in the middle; seahorses are often found in clear water. The beach is equipped with umbrellas and sunbeds, there is a traditional tavern nearby.
The island has many small cozy beaches in bays and wide sandy ones in more open places, you can find a place to your liking: Platys Gialos, Makris Gialos, Platy Ammos, Dafnoudi, Alathies, Katellos, Kaminia and others.
Other things to do on the island
For entertainment in Kefalonia, you need to go to Argostoli - the capital and The largest city islands. Argostoli became the capital from the day of its foundation - since 1757. It is located like an amphitheater on the mountainside, and despite the fact that the city was almost completely destroyed by the 1953 earthquake, you can still find corners with old architecture.
Old Kefalonia… Photo by www.iefimerida.gr/
…and the new Kefalonia. Photo www.iefimerida.gr/
On the central square concentrated bars, shops for every taste and restaurants. Shopping can be done on the Litostroto pedestrian shopping street.
Souvenirs at Litostroto. Photo www.iefimerida.gr/
Photo www.iefimerida.gr/
Photo www.iefimerida.gr/
Nightlife in Kefalonia is not very intense, but there are many decent options for an evening out in the capital. In local places you can listen to reggae, dance or go to a traditional Greek evening. If you go out for an evening walk around the city and you are lucky, you may come across a local orchestra that often brightens the atmosphere with traditional melodies.
In addition to the central square, in Argostoli there is a Kambana (Bell) square, named after the high bell tower located on it. Climbing to the very top of the bell tower, you will admire panoramic views of the city and the sea, it is also worth seeing a photo exhibition showing the city as it was before the earthquake.
Worth visiting local Archaeological Museum and the Corialennio Library, which, in addition to storing books and manuscripts, is also an ethnographic museum. In addition, in Argostoli you can see the ruins ancient city Krani, with remains of cyclopean walls. Of course, this is not all that can be seen in the city, there would be a desire to learn and explore the history of the city and its surroundings!
fiskardo
There are good bars and taverns in the village of Fiskardo. This is a cozy village with a beautiful promenade that has preserved the Mediterranean flavor.
Diving enthusiasts will find several diving spots in Kefalonia. In Fiskardo there are two equipped dive centers at once. Their instructors will indicate the most reserved places off the coast of the island for observing underwater life. The dive club in Lassi organizes dives near canyons, caves, reefs and shipwrecks. By the way, there is a special program for children from 8 years old.
And Kefalonia will be of interest to lovers of gastronomic tourism. The fertile soil gives the island organic products, from which cheeses, the famous bacagliaropita pie, quince jam, caramelized almonds and Robola wine are produced here.
Photo www.iefimerida.gr/
Kefalonia will be remembered as an island of aristocratic beauty that adorns Greek advertising brochures. Here you can choose a vacation to your liking: relax or spend time actively, retire to protected places or allow yourself to become local for a while, fully recognizing the hospitality of the inhabitants of the island.
Interesting facts about the island of Kefalonia
In the center of the Ionian Sea is a large Kefalonia island(Kefalonia, Kefalonia), washed by sapphire waters. Mysterious and romantic, concealing the wealth of culture, giving rest to the soul and body. The island is the largest of those located in the Ionian Sea. It is named after the mythical hero Cephalus.
The landscape of the island is diverse - secluded bays, sandy beaches, mysterious caves. Unlike east coast, the western part of Kefalonia is rocky.
Major administrative center of the province of Kefalonia - city of Argostoli.
Greece is attractive for its comfortable Mediterranean climate. V winter time most of the precipitation falls. Winters are mild, mostly without snow. Summer is hot and dry. July is the most sultry, the air temperature stays above 25 degrees.
Amazing natural beauty of Kefalonia
In the cozy village of Karavomylos there is salt lake Melissani- a geological anomaly, water from it enters the sea along a small channel. The lake is fed by groundwater. Sea water deepens under the island, travels 17 km in a few weeks, making its way through underground channels, partially desalinated and enters, located in a cave. Water surface becomes unrealistically blue when sunlight enters it through the hole in the rock vault. Part of the dome of the cave collapsed about 4,000 years ago, thanks to which this place was discovered.
Scientists have approximately restored the age of the cave - it is about 30,000 years old. This place is a paradise for a photographer, where you can make unique, in terms of beauty and fantastic colors and shapes, pictures. The unreal blue of the lake turns green when the lighting changes.
There are legends about this place. As if one nymph named Melissani fell in love with the god Pan, a windy and fickle tempter. The feeling of the nymph remained unshared. She wept so bitterly that a lake formed from her tears. It took into its waters a girl who suffered from unrequited love.
When this place was discovered, clay figurines of the god Pan and nymphs were found inside.
People believe that if a couple in love join hands and immerse them in water, then their love will be eternal and happy. If a person wants to find a beloved (lover), then you need to wash your face with lake water and love will soon come.
A special pleasure is a boat trip on the lake, the depth of which in some places reaches 14 m. The water is cold - only 15 degrees. Eel and mullet live in the lake.
The water is so clear and pure that it seems to people in the boat that they are floating in weightlessness, because the bottom is visible from any place and the illusion of being between heaven and earth is created.
The unique place of Kefalonia is a huge Dragoratti Cave 40 km long, supposedly turning into a whole gallery of caves.
It is famous for its unique surface topography, bizarre forms of stalactites and stalagmites. It contains stalactites 2 m long, and the process of their formation continues to this day. Stalactites grow very slowly - 1 centimeter per hundred years, you can roughly calculate how old this cave is.
There is a legend that speaks of a dragon that lived in this cave, from which its name follows.
The cave is located at a depth of 60 m. All year round it keeps a constant temperature - 18 degrees.
The cave has excellent acoustics. In its central hall with an area of 45x65 m, a unique concert hall at 800 seats. For wonderful acoustics, the room is called the “Hall of Excellence”, its height is 20 m.
The cave was discovered about 300 years ago - a strong earthquake "opened" the entrance to it, bringing down part of the arch. Acquaintance with the beauties of this place has been open since 1963.
The Enos mountain range is a national reserve, on the territory of which there are unique plants listed in the Red Book.
On the mountainous slopes, a rare variety of fir grows - Abiescephalonica - an evergreen coniferous plant from the Pine family. It is found exclusively in Greece. The needles of the tree have a very rich dark green color, seeming black, and the mountains themselves seem black because of the many firs. The Venetians called them "Monte Nero".
An amazing religious phenomenon has been spotted on the island. In the village of Markopulo there is a temple of the Assumption Holy Mother of God. On the day of the religious holiday - the day of the Assumption of the Most Holy Theotokos on August 15, snakes crawl up to the miraculous icon, which have a pattern in the form of a black cross on their heads - such is their coloring. On this day, they do not sting people and they can even be picked up. This phenomenon is repeated year after year. locals they say that in the 20th century reptiles did not crawl to the temple twice - this was an omen tragic events- war and the strongest earthquake that happened in 1953.
Kefalonia is an earthquake-prone area. The earthquake of 1953 destroyed all the cities and most of the villages, except for Fiskardo (northern locality). France, America and Australia provided assistance to the inhabitants - they supplied the inhabitants with food, water, and medicines. That year, many residents of Kefalonia moved to America, Africa and Australia, because their homes were destroyed.
Sightseeing in Kefalonia
The locals lead an active vibrant life, which can be seen in the crowded squares and markets where there is a brisk trade. Narrow streets, with houses in an original style under red tiles, pleasantly delight the eye. In many national cafes, tourists taste traditional centuries-old cuisine. Kefalonia is a place rich in sights, which can be explored only with outdoor activities and attending many excursions. The multi-colored overflows of the sea, the blue of underground lakes, the grandeur of huge stalactite caves will amaze you with their natural mysteries and wonders.
Sightseeing tour of Kefalonia includes visits to unique places:
- Castle of the peninsula of Assos.
- Katavothres.
- Drogarati caves.
- Cave lake Melissani.
- Monastery of St. Gerasimos.
To overcome such a voluminous program and restore energy will help a cafe in a picturesque the village of Fiskardo.
In Kefalonia, many ancient shrines have been preserved. Operating churches and monasteries keep rare icons and unique altars.
The monastery of St. Gerasimos is located in the Omala valley near Argostoli. October 20 - St. Gerasim. He lived for 5 years as a hermit in the caves of Lassi. In 1560, Saint Gerasimus restored the chapel of the Assumption of the Most Holy Theotokos. It is still active today. In the same year, St. Gerasim laid the first stone of the current nunnery, in which his relics are still kept. If you visit this temple, you can see the cave where the saint lived as a hermit.
People believe that two ancient plane trees growing on the territory of the monastery were planted by St. Gerasim. The area was waterless, and the saint dug 3 large and 37 small wells with his own hands.
The beaches of Kefalonia
Greek island of Kefalonia famous for its beaches. His unique places has been awarded the Blue Flag label, an international award that has been given since 1987 to beaches with clean water that meets strict quality standards and is safe to swim in.
The most popular clean and comfortable beach - Myrtos. It is comfortable due to the protection of rocks from the wind. The waters are mostly calm, striking with a play of colors: cornflower blue, ultramarine, turquoise, blue - the color changes from the angle of incidence of the sun's rays. Included in the top ten the most beautiful beaches peace. The beach is not with sand, but with large white pebbles, smaller pebbles near the water. The beach is permeable to the winds, there are waves on the sea.
On Kefalonia Beach, Xi is striking in the color of the sand - rich red, but sometimes it can appear red. The proposed rest can be supplemented with wellness procedures with the help of therapeutic mud (balneotherapy).
For those who prefer silence and unity with nature, the coasts of Antisamos are suitable. Antisami is the most beautiful of the white pebble beaches. Almost from the first steps of entering the water, a great depth is noted. It is not comfortable for families with children, but expanse for those who like to swim.
Lassi beach- clear water, light sand. The entire coast is in Kefalonian firs. This is especially convenient for families with children, because the water is shallow near the shore.
Legendary Skala beach- the standard of accuracy and comfort.
petani beach- White sand beach. The purest water and surroundings.
Top 10 Islands in Greece
Proud Sparta! (one)
If you put your right hand on the table with your palm down and, spreading your fingers, bend your little finger, you will get a figure very similar to the Peloponnese. The ring finger corresponds to Cape Akritas, the middle finger to Cape Tenar, the index finger to Cape Malea, and the thumb to Cape Emilianos. The wrist corresponds to the Isthmus - the Isthmus of Corinth. Not far from Cape Malea is the island of Cythera (Κυθηρα: Kythera, aka Kythera, aka Kitira), about which the Spartan king Demaratus said that it would be better for Sparta if it were not there, since this is an excellent base for sea raids on Laconia. Aphrodite chose the same island much earlier to set foot on solid ground for the first time. Where does one of her epithets come from - Kythera. So I decided to start with Kiefer.
Zakynthos Island - Flower of the East
At the time of Homer, this island was covered with dense forests ("forest Zakynthos"). They survived a millennium later. The famous ancient geographer Strabo clarifies: “Although it is a wooded, it is still a fertile island.” In mythological Geography, the island was considered the possession of Odysseus. The history of Herodotus tells about the extraction of resin on the island.
Monasteries in Meteora - excursion with a Russian-speaking guide and a short story about the sights
Greek Meteora is a rock complex of indescribable beauty in the town of Kalambaka. Today, the six Greek Orthodox Monasteries of Meteora rightfully occupy a place in the top ten attractions in Greece. The monasteries got their name from the Greek. "Meteora" (Μετέωρα), which means "between heaven and earth", which perfectly describes these majestic structures
Public transport in Greece
Upon arrival in Greece, many Russians face a problem correct use public transport for your purposes. V summary we will present you the urban transport of Greece, tell you about the features of its use in order to explore the sights of the country and travel inexpensively.
