Greek Islands Guide

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Kefalonia is located in the southern half of the Ionian chain that runs down the west coast of Greece. The island is large with a mountainous interior. Its resorts are spread quite widely around the islands long coastline. Kefalonia could once boast some splendid Venetian buildings, but those that escaped wartime bombing were demolished in 1953 by a large earthquake that caused an immense amount of damage.

The ruined classical buildings have had to be replaced with new homes, and so much of the character of the island has been lost, apart from a few areas that escaped the damage, such as Fiskardo and Assos. What has not been lost is some breathtaking mountain scenery, and a number of beautiful beaches worthy of any tourist brochure.

Argostoli, the islands capital since 1757, has a population of approximately 8000 people. Even though many of the imposing mansions that stood in the town prior to the 1953 earthquake, have been destroyed, the new town that followed the destruction has been built with an effort to maintain some elements of Ionian architectural style. The town is well laid out with spacious squares, trees, alleys, and a very lively port area.

To the north of Argostoli is the area known as Katovothres, located here is the pretty Doric lighthouse of Agios Theodoros. It is claimed that this is one of the best places on the island observing sunsets during the summer months.

Myrtos is a magnificent beach that some claim to be the the best in Greece. The sea here is usually calm, however, there can sometimes be an undercurrent, so getting in and out of the water can be awkward at times. The shore drops away very quickly, but swim out and look back for a fantastic view. There is also a cave at the end of the beach.

Situated along part of Lassi’s waterfront. This beach is accessed via a narrow lane off the main drag close to the large “Lassi Supermarket”. The lane is wide enough to drive down and parking is provided for a number of cars. The beach, although  narrow, is south facing so visitors get the benefit of the sun throughout day.

Lixouri, the second largest town on the island, is on the western side of the Paliki peninsula facing the Lassi peninsula. Two violent earthquakes, one in January 1867 and the other in August 1953, completely demolished most of the old traditional houses. Present day Lixouri boasts several important churches, some small traditional houses and a number of flower filled squares.

Kefalonia