Kefalonia holidays

Unlike the eastern islands of Greece, Kefalonia has its own delicacies and local products from its Robola wine made in the Omala Valley to its fir-tree honey and wild thyme. In fact, the island even has its own meat pie which consists of pork, feta cheese, garlic and filo pastry. This authentic dish can be found is most restaurants, but for other country favourites we suggest spicy lamb skewers or halloumi kebabs. Most restaurants are beachfront, which means meals are served with a view. Enjoy glasses of Ouzo watching the sunset, candlelit fare under the stars and meze dishes during hot days. Top picks include Tassia, a family run taverna in Fiskardo and Lorraine’s Magic Hill which only serves free-range livestock, home-grown vegetables and in-house oils. This fancy spot also boasts astonishing vistas of Lourdas Bay. For pints of Mythos and an extensive cocktail list check out Captain’s Bar, based on the southern tip of the island in Skala.

Renowned for its dramatic coastline, it comes as no surprise that many of the beaches in Kefalonia are awarded Blue Flags. The most impressive is Myrtos, it’s ranked fifth in the world for its undeniable beauty and is a major tourist attraction. Surrounded by steep cliffs, this emerald cove is blessed with Caribbean-like sands. Those seeking another sapphire wonder, find Antisamos featured on postcards and in many movies. Backed by expanses of rolling greenery, this family-friendly stretch also boasts shallow ripples and watersports including pedalo boats and paragliding. For diving, head to Makris Gialos where its clear seabed enchants deep sea swimmers. There’s also the pebbled number of Foki Fiskardo, its rural location ensures a tranquil beach day. And don’t forget about the resort favourites such as Lourdas and Argostolion with their endless amenities.

When you’re not soaking up Mediterranean rays, this laid-back island has plenty of must-see sights. Once destroyed by an earthquake in 1953, Kefalonia is now bursting with timeless relics and Palaeolithic settlements. However, its natural marvels are the main draw with Melissani Cave and Ainos National Park at your fingertips.

Drogarati Cave: Estimated to be 150 million years old, but only discovered 300 years ago this remarkable rock formation is worth exploring. This rare geological phenomenon is 60 metres deep and is split into two parts. The main long corridor leads to the famous Royal Balcony which is a platform of icicle shaped stalactites. From here visitors can witness the Chamber of Exaltation which is celebrated for its acoustics. Scientists discovered that the Drogarati Cave has an extension which is unreachable, but it is believed this is connected to other sea grottoes.

Mount Ainos: Stretching 3,000 hectares and soaring 1,628 metres, Mount Ainos is the island’s most precious reserve. Avid hikers will be in awe of the challenging routes which lead to some of Kefalonia’s most breathtaking sights of nearby Zante and Lefkada. It’s believed that it was once an ancient sanctuary dedicated to Zeus Aeneas, today it’s a national park in the heart of the island’s biodiversity.