Kefalonia - a small picturesque island in Greece, an area of about 900 km square. and with a population of 40 thousand people, located in the heart of the Ionian Gulf. It is believed that he received his name from the ancient Greek mythological character Kefal, from which, according to legend, the legendary king of the nearby island of Ithaka Odysseus leads.
Beginning of its history the island takes in immemorial times - it is believed that the first civilization appeared here in the XV century BC. Gradually the island blossomed due to its favorable location and fertile natural conditions. Indigenous people traditionally engaged in seafaring, which affected the culture, art and customs.
Holidays on the island of Kefalonia
The island is ideal for a relaxing family holiday, and for a more diverse and dynamic. Here you can find places for all tastes - romantic secluded coves and merry noisy embankments. A separate description deserves the beaches of Kefalonia.
The island is awarded the blue flag for the amazing properties of coastal waters, which have a healing and tonic effect. But the unconditional superiority on Kefalonia belongs to the beach of Myrtos, reliably protected from the wind by rocks. Its smooth surface and serenity fascinate, and the comfort is appreciated by many experts and is marked by international prizes.
Attractions in Kefalonia
The rich historical past and cultural heritage of the island is due to the diversity of excursion programs. From the first day the guests of the island are imbued with an impressive color, which is literally permeated with everything: ancient streets, original buildings with crane tiles, numerous Christian shrines and, of course, local markets.
We bring to your attention a short list of the main remarkable places of the island, which is worth a visit first.
- Lake Melissani on Kefalonia, located in a cave. Once here was the sanctuary of the god Pan, but about 4 thousand years ago the vaulted dome of the cave collapsed and sun rays could penetrate it, showing the world an amazingly clean water body. You can get into the grotto only by boat;
- the city of Scala on Kefalonia. The modern city was destroyed by the strongest earthquake in 1953, after which it was completely rebuilt. But a few kilometers away from it are the ruins of an ancient Rock (from the Greek name translated as "staircase"), where you can observe well-preserved foundations of cult, residential and economic buildings of the Roman era;
- The monastery of St. Gerasimos in Kefalonia is the most visited religious shrine. Its main attraction is the relics of the saint himself, who, according to the belief of the monks, relieve of obsession;
- Cave Drogarati - an amazing grotto with an intricate relief, located at a depth of 60 meters. It was formed as a result of an earthquake;
- Venetian fortress - the ruins of the majestic structure of the late 18th century, where Russian and French fought in a fierce battle, are located in the picturesque village of Assos.
How to get to Kefalonia?
The island enjoys great popularity among tourists, therefore it is closely connected with the mainland part of the country by air and sea routes. The easiest way to get here is by direct flight from Athens. Also from the capital you can come and take a bus - it will be very exciting, but also a tiresome trip, lasting 7 hours. The ferry can be reached from the islands of Peloponessos, Corfu and Zakynthos .
Directly on the island you can travel by taxi, buses, as well as cars and bikes rented.
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