Kefalonia Holidays in 2013

Families will love clambering about Kefalonia’s historical sites, which make for a great day out full of fun and exploration. Children will enjoy getting spooked at the Mazarakata tombs, which are now empty but still offer plenty of ruins and gorgeous surroundings to look around. The Cyclopean Walls are also well worth a visit, with ancient stone dating from 1,500 BC. The intriguing name comes from the fact that later generations came across the ancient wall and thought it had been built by a giant Cyclops.

The traditional Greek food likely to be found on the island includes lots of fresh seafood and meats, including kebabs and other grilled meats, which are usually served with pitta bread and dips. One of the local specialities is the Kefalonia Meat Pie, which is a tasty pie filled with lamb, beef, pork and rice. Families with fussy children don’t need to worry though, as most of the restaurants offer more child-friendly international food. Il Destino in Skala is a great Italian restaurant if you feel like a change from Greek food.

Adventure loving families will be spoilt for choice in the activities offered on the island. From horse riding, to hiking, to scuba diving, there really is something for everyone. For those who want to take in the stunning scenery while staying active, kayaking around the Lixouri peninsula is a great way to do both. There are several great places to hike around such as St George’s castle near Peratata or the Mazarakata tombs but serious hikers should check out Mount Ainos National Park. Host to Greece’s third highest mountain, there are several well maintained paths on which to explore.

If you’re a lover of traditional Greek food, Kefalonia will not disappoint. As fishing is such a big industry on the island, expect lots of delicious freshly caught seafood including halibut and mussels. Meat lovers will find an array of dishes straight from the grill, which are usually served with traditional Greek pitta bread and dips. If you’re in the mood for something special, Tassia in Fiskardo is one of the most famous restaurants on the island and is known to host A-list stars.

Whether you’re history buffs, artists or just enjoy wondering around some beautiful sites, Kefalonia has some stunning attractions to suit everyone. The Melissani and Drongarati, and Agalaki caves offer the perfect romantic spot to check out some gorgeous scenery including glittering interiors full of ancient stalactites and stalagmites. Meanwhile the Mazarakata tombs are a gothic spot overgrown with wild flowers, perfect for a spot of sketching or just wandering around. St George’s castle and the Cyclopean Walls offer some beautiful historical sites.

The stunning blue waters and lush green scenery of Kefalonia offer the perfect background for a romantic trip such as a honeymoon or anniversary holiday. With an array of luxury and boutique hotels, Kefalonia is the perfect spot to take some time out together. Spend the days either lounging on a deserted beach or hiking through gorgeous scenery and enjoy long evenings in romantic restaurants with ocean views.

Greece has a rich religious history and there are some striking churches and monasteries around Kefalonia. Situated on the South East of the island, Markopoulo is a small village whose church is host to a strange phenomena. Every year on August 15th, several little snakes with black crosses on their heads appear at the church. The villagers aren’t scared however, but celebrate the occurrence as good luck. Local legend says that in 1705, the nuns prayed to be turned into snakes to escape the invading pirates. Even if you miss the yearly festival, the stunning church is worth visiting year round for its views and architecture.

If you get tired of clambering about historical sites, there are a number of museums in Kefalonia that give an interesting insight into the island’s past. The Argostoli Archaeological Museum houses antiquities ranging from the pre-historic to the Roman era. The museum is also known for its extensive collection of Mycenaean artefacts. The nearby Folklore Museum is a great way to learn about local life across the centuries, with a collection of tools and objects used in daily life. It also has photographs of the island pre and post the 1953 earthquake that dramatically reshaped the area.

Foodies will love the selection of authentic local Greek restaurants in Kefalonia. For those who enjoy seafood, the villages on the north of the island offer fresh caught local seafood in their waterfront tavernas every day. The tiny village of Assos is one of the most atmospheric places to grab a meal, with its scenic harbour and views of the Venetian castle looming overhead. Meals in Greece are taken very seriously, so expect long evening spent tucking into traditional Greek foods and mezze plates partnered with a carafe of local wine.