Kefalonia Villa Holidays

Kefalonia is the largest of the Ionian islands and the one that feels most like a proper destination in its own right rather than just a beach holiday backdrop. The interior is mountainous — Mount Ainos rises to nearly 1,600m and is covered in a rare species of fir tree — and the coastline switches between dramatic limestone cliffs, hidden coves, and long sweeping bays of pale blue water.

Where to Stay Fiscardo in the north is the most picturesque village on the island — a small harbour lined with pastel Venetian buildings that survived the 1953 earthquake that flattened most of Kefalonia. It's popular and expensive in summer but worth it. Assos nearby is similarly beautiful and quieter. Lassi near the capital Argostoli is more resort-oriented. Lourdas and Skala on the south coast are relaxed bases with good beaches nearby.

Beaches Myrtos beach on the west coast is one of the most photographed in Greece — a steep descent to a bay of white pebbles and impossibly blue water, best viewed from the lookout above before you go down. Petani is similar and marginally less visited. Antisamos on the east coast is a beautiful bay of white pebbles backed by green hills. Xi beach in the south has distinctive red sand.

Things to Do Visit the Melissani cave lake — a collapsed cave where a boat takes you across an underground lake lit by sunlight coming through the open roof. Drive from Assos down to Myrtos and stop at the viewpoint. Take a day trip by boat to the island of Ithaca, just 15 minutes across the water, which in Greek mythology was the home of Odysseus.

Food & Drink Kefalonia's signature dish is kreatopita — a meat pie made with rice, lamb and spices baked in a pastry case. The island also produces its own Robola white wine from vineyards on the slopes of Mount Ainos — it's light, dry and very drinkable. Fiscardo has a cluster of good waterfront restaurants.

When to Go May, June and September are ideal. July and August are busy, particularly around Fiscardo and Myrtos. Kefalonia has good direct flight connections from the UK throughout summer.