autorez Tours & EXCURSIONs - Explore Kefalonia Island

As if rising from the infinite blue sea, standing tall and solid, Mount Ainos features a National Park of unique beauty and rarity. The National Park of Ainos in Kefalonia Island is close to Argostoli and Sami, and it is the smallest national park in Greece.

Ainos National Park was established in 1962 to protect the indigenous specimen of elati (Abies Cephalonica), which covers an area of 1973 hectares. The fir forest is home to various specimens of bushes such as gortsies and krategi. Northwest of Ainos in Roudi Mountain, a lush vegetation of bushes covers 46 hectares and forms a separate part of the park. The dark green fir forests of Mt. Ainos look almost black, which led the Venetians to call the mountain Monte Nero (‘Black Mountain’).

In the highest rocky areas, briar genistas prevail. Apart from the rich flora, the park's fauna is also significant. Mammals such as foxes, beech martens, and hares, along with rare birds and snakes like petroperdika and fidaetos, find shelter here. 

Inside the park, you can also spot the famous wild horses of Ainos. Some claim these horses are descendants of the wild horses of Thessaly, one of three ancient Greek breeds now extinct, as their resemblance to ancient horse sculptures is impressive. Others believe they are descended from escaped or released livestock. Most likely, these horses are escaped or released ponies from Pindos, captured and traded at horse fairs in Aitoloakarnania (the Greek mainland opposite Kefalonia, north of the Gulf of Corinth) and Arta. They have managed to survive in the wild in dwindling herds, with only a few dozen remaining on the slopes of Ainos.

The park is a paradise for hikers, especially on its east side, which is more untamed. The flora includes endangered species, such as endemic varieties of orchids, while the fauna is equally intriguing, featuring raptors, reptiles, and small mammals like foxes, which are quite rare on Kefalonia Island or other islands. 

During a long hike, more surprises await you. Uncharted trails, mysterious lakes like Melissani Lake, and caves of unrivaled beauty beckon you to explore! After your adventures, consider convenient private transfers to destinations like Myrtos Beach for a perfect end to your day.

This fantastic scenic horseshoe bay lies just around the coast from Sami and can be first viewed from high up on your approach from Sami. The beach of Antisamos is one of the best-known beaches on Kefalonia Island, featuring a beautiful and attractive pebble beach with turquoise waters, surrounded by impressive fertile hills. It's a real example of untamed beauty. The natural outstanding beauty of the place is absolutely breathtaking! Along the cliff-top road, people park their vehicles to capture the best views of this beach. The crescent sweep of sand, shingle, and pebbles forms a neat bed for visitors to rest and take in the scenery or slope off into the glorious clear waters. The stunning tree-covered mountains sit majestically behind the bay, and your eyes are dazzled by the enormity of dark green lushness that interrupts the blueness all around. While there is no shade on this Blue Flag beach, sunbeds and sunshades are available for rent. The facilities are limited—no watersports are offered here; however, there is a beach bar for refreshments and snacks. Antisamos is the most popular beach on the northeast coast of Kefalonia Island and is frequented by tourists staying in nearby Sami. In high summer, the beach tends to get very busy, and the car parking area fills up, so you may have to park further along the beach. Interestingly, the beach was used as the Italian encampment in the film 'Captain Corelli’s Mandolin.' Before this film was shot, the winding track leading down to the beach was quite rough, but it has since been resurfaced, making it much better for vehicles. For those exploring the area, a visit to Melissani Lake and Myrtos Beach is also highly recommended, and private transfers can be arranged for a more comfortable journey.

Assos is situated in an enchanting location on the northwest coast of Kefalonia Island. This traditional Venetian-style fishing village serves as a perfect holiday destination for those seeking peace and quiet. The magical view from the castle is unforgettable, and the peaceful, charming little harbour delights every visitor. With its rich history, stunning beauty, and tranquil atmosphere, Assos is an ideal getaway, located just 25 minutes by car from Aghia Efimia, 20 minutes from the renowned Myrtos Beach, 20-25 minutes from the cosmopolitan Fiskardo, and about 1 hour from Argostoli. 

The history of Assos dates back to before 1584, when it became the capital of the northern part of the island during Venetian rule. The castle atop the hill was constructed for protection against pirate attacks. Before the earthquake in 1953, the castle also served as a prison. The earthquake devastated the village, destroying almost all the houses, with very few remaining intact. Visitors to Kefalonia Island often enjoy exploring nearby attractions, such as the stunning Melissani Lake, and many opt for private transfers to experience the beauty of this captivating region.

Agia Effimia is a charming town located on Kefalonia Island, serving as the seat of the Pylaros municipality in Greece. This small town is centered around a traditional fishing village that features a quaint harbour. Visitors can find a variety of taverns, bars, and shops, along with tourist accommodation and local residences. Today, the primary focus of Agia Effimia is tourism, attracting many to its harbour, which is popular for sailing holidays and is known as a base for flotilla sailing groups. While many old buildings in Agia Effimia were lost to the 1953 earthquake, a few original structures still stand, adding to the town's historical charm. Additionally, Agia Effimia serves as a convenient starting point for exploring nearby attractions like Melissani Lake and the stunning Myrtos Beach, with options for private transfers available to enhance the travel experience.

Fiskardo is located on the northern tip of Kefalonia Island in an area so beautiful that the Greek government has protected it by law. Around Fiscardo, dense forests reach down to innumerable small coves where pebble beaches are lapped by crystal clear water. 

Uniquely in Kefalonia, Fiscardo retains the architecture and ambience of a by-gone era – a time when the Venetians ruled Kefalonia. The picturesque harbour is surrounded by Venetian-style houses painted in pastel colours; in summer, the harbour is filled with vessels from small sailing boats to large yachts, all nestled together a few feet from pavement restaurants and cafes specializing in traditional Greek cuisine. 

Kefalonia is the largest of the seven Ionian Islands, and Fiscardo is one of 365 villages on the island. Exploring the island by sea and land is a journey of endless discovery – remember this is Greece, where you can turn a corner and find yourself in front of an ancient temple or near the stunning Melissani Lake. Don't forget to visit Myrtos Beach, known for its breathtaking views and crystal-clear waters. For those looking for convenience, private transfers are available to help you navigate this beautiful island. 

So, on behalf of all our village, welcome to Fiscardo and enjoy your stay in this beautiful, exceptionally safe, and sheltered harbour.

The cave lake of Melissani is one of the most enchanting and well-known attractions of Kefalonia Island, as well as being a site of great historical interest. Located at Karavomilo, very near Sami, it was rediscovered in 1951 by famed Greek speleologist G. Petrocheilos and opened to the public following extensive access works. A large section of the cave roof has collapsed, allowing sunlight to filter through the overhead vegetation and giving the water a brilliant turquoise color, characteristic of Melissani Lake.

In antiquity, the lake was a place of worship for the god Pan and the nymph Melissanthi. According to the myth, Melissanthi drowned herself in the lake due to her unrequited love for Pan. Another version tells of a shepherdess named Melissanthi who accidentally fell into the lake while searching for a lost sheep. Within the lake lies a small isle where archaeologist S. Marinatos discovered a shrine dedicated to Pan. The finds, now displayed at the Argostoli Archaeological Museum, include a clay figurine of Pan, a plate depicting dancing nymphs, a clay tablet showing a procession of nymphs, and a small tablet featuring a relief carving of a female figure.

The cave lake is the result of a geological process called karstification, in which the limestone bedrock is dissolved by groundwater, creating subterranean caverns. The existence of a karstic network across the island was proven in a 1963 experiment, where green dye dumped into sinkholes on the other side of the island (Katavothres) resurfaced 14 days later in Melissani Lake.

Today, visitors can take private transfers to enjoy a guided tour of Melissani cave lake in small rowing boats and experience the magical spectacle of its stalactites and sunlit turquoise waters, making it a perfect complement to a day spent at nearby Myrtos Beach.

Drogarati Cave, located on Kefalonia Island, was discovered over 300 years ago following a strong earthquake. These eerie caves are situated 60 metres below ground and maintain a cool temperature of 18 oC with a moisture level of 90%. It is said that the caves are over 100 million years old. The formation of stalactites occurs due to rainwater moving through the rocks and absorbing minerals such as iron, copper, salt, and calcium. As the water reaches the tip of a stalactite, it drips slowly, allowing it to grow very gradually. A stalactite takes thousands of years to reach its current stage, with just one centimetre taking about 100 years to form. Covering an area of about 900 square metres, the cave boasts excellent acoustics, making it a unique venue for classical and pop concerts. Speleologists exploring the cave discovered an extension but were unable to complete their investigations due to the large amount of mud. They believe there are additional caves connected to the Drogarati Caves. Since 1963, Drogarati has been open to the public and is well-known throughout Greece for its unique features. Visitors to Kefalonia Island often combine their trip to Drogarati with a visit to nearby attractions like Melissani Lake and Myrtos Beach, and many opt for private transfers to enhance their experience.

Myrtos Beach is the hallmark of Kefalonia Island and is celebrated as one of the most stunning beaches in the Mediterranean and throughout the Ionian Islands. Situated north of Argostoli, the capital of Kefalonia, this remarkable beach features fine golden sand and breathtaking turquoise waters, resembling a brilliant blue palette. The entire area is framed by impressive vertical rocky cliffs, creating a captivating landscape. This pure paradise is among the most photographed spots in Greece and draws thousands of visitors each summer. For added convenience, the beach offers a snack bar, as well as rentals for sun beds and umbrellas. While exploring Kefalonia Island, be sure to visit the enchanting Melissani Lake, which adds another layer of beauty to your experience. Consider booking private transfers for a hassle-free journey to these beautiful locations.

The Monastery of Agios (St.) Gerasimos is the most holy Church on Kefalonia Island. It is located in the village Omala, at the top of a green valley with 40 wells, near the villages Fragata and Balsamata. 

Agios Gerasimos is the patron saint of Kefalonia, and his relic is kept in the monastery in a silver urn. Originally from Trikala of Corinth, Agios Gerasimos founded the monastery in the 16th century, renovating an older one dedicated to the Virgin Mary. He died in 1597 and was sanctified in 1622, becoming renowned for his miraculous abilities, particularly in helping those suffering from mental illness. The monastery boasts an impressive chapel and a new church adorned with rich decorations.

Below the Monastery, where it initially stood, is a cave built by Agios Gerasimos, where he held his daily prayers. Pilgrims from all over Greece visit to pray and honor the saint here. 

The people of Kefalonia honor the death of Saint Gerasimos at the monastery on August 16th and the restitution of his holy relic on October 20th. On these days, a procession takes place, moving the coffin under the shade of a plane tree planted by Agios Gerasimos himself. This ceremony is followed by a large festival featuring music, dancing, food, and wine, making it a vibrant celebration amidst the stunning backdrop of Kefalonia Island. Visitors can also explore nearby attractions like Melissani Lake and Myrtos Beach, and enjoy convenient private transfers to experience the beauty of the island.

Argostoli, the capital of Kefalonia Island since 1757, is located in the southern part of the island and has been inhabited since archaic times. The current town is built on the site of ancient Krini, once one of the most powerful towns in ancient Kefalonia. The devastating earthquakes of 1953 caused significant destruction in Argostoli, damaging many mansions, impressive buildings, churches, and bell towers. The town was rebuilt from the ground up and today, it combines modernity with traditional elements, featuring new buildings designed in the Ionian architectural style. Argostoli is amphitheatrically built, offering a panoramic view of Koutavos Lagoon, and serves as the largest town and the trade and administrative center of Kefalonia. It boasts the biggest port on the island, accommodating substantial tourist movement. A simple stroll is not enough to fully appreciate Argostoli, as it has numerous attractions and a vibrant shopping center that will entice any visitor. The heart of the town pulses around the central square, with Lithostroto and Siteboron Streets lined with shops, coffeehouses, and bars. A walk along the coastal road Antonis Tritsis, with its pebbles forming beautiful patterns, is perfect for moonlit strolls. In Argostoli, you can explore some of the island's most significant sites. Kabana Square is steeped in history, where Kefalonites famously burned the Libro d’ Oro, the bible of the aristocrats, following the arrival of the French. This square also features the church of Saint Spyridonas, known for its striking clock and golden chancel screen. Don't miss a visit to the archaeological museum, which showcases remarkable findings from excavations, including items housed in the Korjalenio Library, a traditional building that also boasts a rare collection of old editions and manuscripts. Be sure to visit the Devosetos Bridge, which links the town with the other side of Koutavos Lagoon. Named after the Swiss military governor De Bosset, who ordered its construction, the bridge was initially wooden but was later reconstructed in stone with arches and a sill. Completed in 1812, it has retained its original features ever since. Near Koutavos Lagoon, you can find the remnants of ancient Krani, including parts of the famous Cyclops walls and the remains of a Doric temple dedicated to goddess Demeter. For a refreshing swim, head to the organized EOT beach, with nearby beaches including Platis, Makris Gialos, Gradakia, and Kamaroules. The cosmopolitan Argostoli is an ideal place to stay, offering a range of hotels and room complexes to suit every budget. The nightlife here is vibrant and caters to all tastes, making your holidays in Argostoli truly unforgettable. Additionally, make sure to plan a visit to the stunning Melissani Lake and the breathtaking Myrtos Beach during your stay for the ultimate Kefalonia Island experience. For added convenience, consider using private transfers to explore these beautiful locations.