Vast beaches, mountain fir forest and villages rebuilt after earthquake.
Kefalonia is a large Ionian island of Myrtos beach, Mount Ainos, Melissani cave, Robola vineyards and distinctive harbour villages.
Kefalonia's scale and geology produce striking contrasts. Mount Ainos carries a protected fir forest above limestone coasts, while Melissani and Drogarati reveal underground caves. Myrtos sits beneath immense pale cliffs, and the Paliki peninsula opens to broader western beaches.
The 1953 earthquake reshaped most settlements, though Fiskardo retained older architecture. Argostoli, Assos and Sami each make different bases. Robola wine, meat pies and local cheeses anchor a food culture as substantial as the scenery.
Practical information
The island has an airport and several ferry ports. A car is useful, but roads are winding; avoid combining distant north and south sights in one day.
