Kefalonia Travel Guide
Kefalonia is the largest island in the Ionian Sea. It has an area of 781.5 square kilometers and the population at last census was around 40,000 residents.
According to tradition the name derives from the first inhabitants on the island, the mythical hero Cephalus. It is believed that Kefalonia was created during a major earthquake, something that probably occurred as it is located right on a major seismic fault in the Ionian Sea.
Kefalonia is widely referred into the ancient transcripts saved and recovered nowadays, while Homer's Ithaca is well known throughout the world through the famous Homer’s epics, which widely have been studied.
Historically, alongside with the Greek civilization and the spirit that prevailed in the following century, Kefalonia managed to create and retain its unique and specific local character. The strategic location of Kefalonia within the Mediterranean Sea helped the trading expansion. Because of all those unique characteristics, Kefalonia managed to have prosperity, progress and healthiness, as well as cultural blossoming.
Kefalonia is called the "island of bizarre" because of the number of unusual phenomena recorded on the island, and the “peculiar” (in a good way) behavior of its inhabitants. The coastline and its length of 254 km, reveals a rich horizontal division. Strips of land protruding into the sea, forming the peninsulas of Paliki in the west and Erisou in the north. The sea also forms many broad coves and bays. The main ports are the port Sami, which is opposite Ithaka, the port of Poros located at southeast of Sami and the port of Argostoli to the west of the island, which was a natural strategic naval base in the ancient times. The bays of Myrtos and Athera in the north and the bays of Lourda and Katelios in the south boast charming beaches attract many visitors each year. The geological phenomena of Kefalonia are the so called Katavothres (water sinks), the Drogarati cave and the cave lake of Melisani.
The island boasts many attractions, ranging from the natural landscape and beaches and ending at the great creations of those who passed through Kefalonia during the centuries. The most important are the Castle of St. George, the cave-lake of Melisani, the Drogarati cave with its stalagmites and stalactites, the Archaeological Museum of Argostoli, the monastery of St. Gerasimos, the beaches of Myrtos, Antisamos, Xi, Lourdas and many more that can be seen on Attractions and Beaches section of this guide.
WHERE TO DINE:
CAPTAIN RESTAURANT
Located right on the beach of Katelios, on the southern side of Kefalonia, Captain Jerry Fish Taverna serves delicious recipes of fresh fish and seafood. With authentic Greek recipes, many local dishes on offer and good service, this restaurant gives nice view to the sea. As it is found only a walking distance from the beach, it is very suitable for a meal after swimming. There are tables both inside and outside the restaurant.
KIANI - AKTI FISH TAVERN
Mixed shellfish marinated and cooked in sensational sauces.
Homemade fish soup.
Rabbit in red wine sauce.
Seafood spaghetti
Cod pie Mezes
Prawn pilau with a rich tomato sauce.
KATAVOTHRES RESTAURANT-GREEK COUSINE
The Katavothres Rest Area is home to one of the most significant natural phenomena on the island. Pretty water holes are found in the grounds of the venue and these water holes transport sea water under the island in an easterly direction, appearing 14days later at Melisanni Lake.
This stylish, chic venue will hold special appeal for those looking for something modern and different, but next to the sea.
Weather permitting, you and your party will sit outside to enjoy the summer nights and sea air. If the sea breeze is just a bit too strong, the glass partitions are closed, thus making a divide without obstructing the amazing views.
If you prefer though, you can all sit inside, in the trendy, glassed walled restaurant.
Your meal can be waiter-served or buffet-style; the choice is yours.
TASSIA IN FISKARDO
Tasia's taverna is one of the oldest restaurants in Fiskardo. Tassia Dendrinou has not only published her own recipe book - she now hosts a Greek national cookery program. She still has time to do a vast amount of cooking and has catered for some celebrity guests such as Tom Hanks. (26740 41205)
www.tasia.gr
VASSO'S RESTAURANT IN FISKARDO
Vasso Restaurant is one of the more up market restaurants in Fiscardo and is situated next to the supermarket Archontiko in the harbour with seats right above the water. The restaurant specializes in international cuisine, Mediterranean specialties and fresh fish.
VATSA CLUB-SPIAGGIA TAVERN IN LIXOURI.
Spiaggia Taverna is set in one of the most beautiful locations in Greece, on the enchanting island of Kefalonia.
Customers can enjoy the pleasures of excellent Greek cuisine at this amazing open-air taverna situated virtually on the beach, where the atmosphere is casual and relaxed.
The taverna offers first-class fish and seafood caught daily by the local fishermen. The fruit and vegetables used are grown in the grounds of the taverna.
Visitors travel from all over Greece and abroad to visit Spyro and his restaurant. Spyros ensures that everybody feels welcome whilst enjoying the food and atmosphere of this unique taverna.
Spiaggia was recently featured in the film 'Homage To Kefalonia'.
The taverna is open every day from mid-morning until late.
CLUBS TO VISIT:
KATAVOTHRES
PLATANOS
PREMIER