KEFALONIA - VILLAGES

Argostoli

Argostoli is the capital of Kefalonia and stands on the far end of the natural bay surrounded by mountains and verdant forests. Beautiful Venetian buildings used to adorn the town before they were destroyed from the major earthquake of 1953. The beautifully paved coastal road promenade is boarded by palm trees and colorful pebbles from the sea. The road ends at the small ferry quay where boats connect to the town of Lixouri every half an hour and fishing boats moor. The central square of the town called Plateia Valianou (Vallianos Square) is a large and pleasant square lined by many restaurants, cafes and bars. During the evenings, the square fills with locals who are really warm and friendly. The pedestrian Lithostroto Street (Cobbled Street) is the main street of the capital filled with all kinds of shops. There, one can admire the beautiful church of Saint Spyridon and the interesting clock tower of Campana Square. Right above the square is one of the town's nicest sights, the lush Botanical Garden.

Fiscardo

Thirty-one miles from Argostoli, this village is very much based around its lovely waterfront with many private yachts and small fishing boats offering nice views to the neighbor island of Ithaca. This picturesque fishing village is recognized as a traditional settlement as it is one of the few villages that remained untouched from the major earthquake of 1953. Today it is known for its cosmopolitan and warm atmosphere. The main coastal road hosts plenty of shops, taverns and bars and it throbs with activity during the summer. The traditional and Venetian buildings and houses with pretty colors embrace the natural bay offering the village a unique charm while reflecting the rich heritage of Kefalonia. Near the village one can find many beautiful pebbled beaches and stunning coves with calm and crystalline waters as well as ruins of a Palaeolithic settlement and plenty of Byzantine churches, and many other picturesque and interesting sites. The Natural and Environmental Museum lies above the waterfront and it is worth a visit.

Assos

Assos is a small and charming village located 22 miles north of Argostoli. It is one of the most charming spots of the island. Dominated by the ruins of a 16th century Venetian castle, the village of Assos is built on a small peninsula reflecting a beautiful and warm ambience. The traditional architecture, the peaceful landscape and the pebbled beaches compose the natural beauty of Assos. A stroll around the narrow alleys reveals colorful houses with pink and white blooms, lovely paths and old churches. Little taverns perched on the quayside overlooking the bay attract most of the visitors. The visit to the castle requires a long walk amidst the olive tree forests until you reach an archway.

Agia Efimia

Agia Efimia is a coastal picturesque village 20 miles northeast of Argostoli. Laying around a natural bay, it is home to a small and lovely port where fishing and excursion boats moor. Over the years it has become one of the island's major attractions and every summer the streets of the village throb with activity. Marvelous taverns and restaurants line the waterfront overlooking the wonderful bay. The beautiful beaches, the paved streets and the beautiful architecture compose the unique setting of the village. Close to Agia Efimia, at a high altitude are found remains of old fortresses and venetian buildings. One shall visit the lovely churches and the nearby traditional villages. Those who own a boat should definitely explore its pristine isolated beaches and stunning coves.

Sami

Sami is a beautiful coastal town located 15 miles east of Argostoli. The modern village is built close to ancient Sami, one of the most important archeological discoveries of Kefalonia. The delightful waterfront, the wide paved streets and the Venetian buildings offer the village a unique charm and reflect the rich heritage of the island. The main coastal road consists of modern amenities, shops and lovely cafes overlooking the busy port. A number of restaurants are found nearby. The village is home to some of the most interesting monasteries and sights in Kefalonia like the monastery of Agrilia, as well as beautiful caves (like Karavomylos and Dragati), some stunning underground lakes like the one at Melissani and Antisamos beach. During summer, the municipality of Sami organizes cultural events, local festivities, concerts and theatrical performances. It is the second largest port of Kefalonia and offers daily trips to Patra, Ithaca and Italy.

Kourkoumata

Kourkoumata is one of the most beautiful, picturesque and impressive villages of Kefalonia. Without being extremely famous among tourists and Greek travelers, Kourkoumelata distinguishes for its remarkable views to the endless sea and its unique layout. It is located 6 miles from Argostoli. This idyllic village was totally destroyed by the major earthquake of 1953, but it was completely rebuilt with the financial support of the shipowner Giorgos Vergotis who managed to reconstruct the entire village according to the neoclassical architectural tendencies of those times. Kourkoumelata is considered the most elegant settlement in Kefalonia with well-maintained beautiful buildings known for their rich and diverse architecture. However, apart from these magnificent structures, the colorful and well-cared for gardens are the main attraction of Kourkoumelata. These wonderful compositions adorn the entire village and create a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

Peratata

Peratata is a small and picturesque village located 5 miles southeast of Argostoli. It is built on the slopes of Mountain Ainos surrounded by verdant landscape. At the top of the hill stands the 16th century castle of Saint George dominating the village. The village hosts many traditional taverns serving delicious food. A stroll along the settlement reveals the old architecture with pretty stone houses. Paths lead to various monuments that reflect the rich history and tradition of the area. Peratata is home to several attractions worth visiting such as the Monastery of Agios Andreas and its Byzantine Museum, the Venetian Castle and the Mycenaean tombs.

Svoronata

On the southwest coast of Kefalonia, it is set among the fertile valleys and rolling hills of the Livathos region. The village has retained much of its old-world charm, thanks to the sleepy winding streets and colorful gardens. Homely holiday villas dot the outskirts, surrounded by rambling olive groves and perfectly-plotted fruit orchards. And within a 5 minute drive, three sandy beaches: Ammes, Avithos and Ai Helis.