Showing all posts tagged "Kefalonia"
Kefalonia is a beautiful island in Greece
When I first visited Kefalonia I had no expectations. The trip began a bit uphill when there was a strike at the Kefalonia airport, so we had to fly to Preveza on the mainland and then go by bus to Lefkas and continue to Kefalonia by ferry from there. Once we were on Kefalonia, we had to go by another bus for about an hour before reaching Lassi which was our destination.
The realisation that Kefalonia and the Ionian islands are a piece of paradise started on that boat trip from Lefkas to Kefalonia. The nature, the ocean, the views and of course the dolphins made all the annoyance about not getting to fly directly to Kefalonia disappear.
But the real moment when I fell in love with the island, was when we were on that bus from Fiskardo down to Lassi. The road goes along the sea all the way, and the views are just breathtaking. I remember that I just sat there staring out the window amazed that none of my freinds had ever talked about or visisted this place. By the time we reached the breathtaking beach Myrtos, I knew that this was going to be a great vacation. And so it turned out to be. And I have come back many times after that.
The island of Kefalonia is blessed with incredible scenery and untouched beauty and rugged charm unmatched by the other Mediterranean islands. Kefelonia is also home to one of the highest mountains in Greece, Mount Enos. For nature lovers the Island also is host to rolling hills and lush forests and vegetation.
Kefalonia is a big island and there are certainly different characters of this island depending on were you are staying. But no matter were you are staying you should without doubt try to visit Myrtos mentioned above, lake Melissani and the villages Fiskardo and Assos.
So what is a good spot to stay on Kefalonia. Well it depends on what your preferences are. Read some more about Lassi, Skala, Sami, Lourdas and Fiskardo to learn more about them before you decide.
Top photo by Dimitris Smixiotis (Flickr)
Eating on Kefalonia
Kefalonia offers a plethora of dining options that cater to a variety of tastes. From traditional taverns to modern cafés, you'll find numerous eateries serving delicious and authentic Greek dishes.
Identifying Quality Taverns and Restaurants
While Kefalonia boasts numerous eateries, it's essential to choose wisely to ensure a satisfying dining experience. Avoid establishments with large signs featuring pictures of meals, a bouncer outside, and few guests. Instead, look for taverns frequented by locals, as these are often hidden gems offering delicious and authentic food.
Village Dining Recommendations
Each village on Kefalonia has its own unique charm and dining options. Be sure to explore the local taverns and cafés in the different villages for a true taste of the island. Check out the village pages for specific dining recommendations.
Self-Catering on Kefalonia
If your accommodation has a kitchen, consider cooking some meals yourself for a fun and immersive experience. Argostoli, the island's capital, has a fish market, a fruit and vegetable market, and well-stocked supermarkets with reasonable prices.
Must-Try Kefalonian Dishes
Souvlaki: These skewers, made from pork, chicken, or lamb, are seasoned with thyme and lemon and are perfect for a light and flavorful meal.
Lamb Kleftiko: This slow-cooked dish features tender, melt-in-your-mouth lamb, seasoned with herbs and spices.
Gyros: A popular fast food option in Greece, gyros consist of seasoned meat, typically pork or chicken, served in pita bread with tomatoes, onions, and tzatziki sauce.
Moussaka: A classic Greek dish, moussaka layers eggplant, minced meat, and béchamel sauce, creating a rich and satisfying meal.
Greek Salad: A refreshing mix of tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, olives, and feta cheese, Greek salad is a staple in Kefalonian cuisine. The salad is often served with a bread called "Horiatiko Psomi," which translates to "country bread" or "village bread."
Grilled Fresh Fish: Take advantage of Kefalonia's coastal location and indulge in freshly caught fish, grilled to perfection and seasoned with local herbs.
Meze: Enjoy a variety of small dishes, such as fried cheese, tzatziki, and stuffed vine leaves, to savor the diverse flavors of Kefalonian cuisine.
Wine and beer
Kefalonia is home to several indigenous grape varieties, the most famous of which is Robola. Robola wines are typically crisp, refreshing, and characterized by citrus and floral notes, making them an excellent accompaniment to seafood dishes and light Mediterranean fare. Additionally, the island produces wines from other grape varieties, such as Mavrodaphne, which is used to create rich, sweet, and fortified dessert wines. Kefalonian wineries and vineyards welcome visitors for tastings and tours, providing an opportunity to learn more about the island's winemaking heritage.
While Kefalonia may not be as famous for its beer as it is for its wine, the island does have a local brewery, the Kefalonian and Ithacan Brewery, which produces a variety of craft beers. Their flagship beer, Cephalonia, is a refreshing pilsner with a balanced hop profile and crisp finish, perfect for sipping on a hot day. The brewery also produces other beer styles, including ales and lagers, showcasing the creativity and quality of Kefalonian brewing. Visitors can tour the brewery and sample the beers on offer, making for a delightful excursion for beer enthusiasts.
Coffee
On Kefalonia, coffee culture thrives, reflecting the broader Greek tradition of enjoying leisurely coffee breaks while socializing with friends and family. The island's cafés and coffee shops serve a variety of coffee styles to suit different tastes, from classic Greek coffee to modern espresso-based drinks.
Greek coffee, also known as Ellinikos Kafes, is a traditional and popular choice on the island. It is made by boiling finely ground coffee with water and sugar (if desired) in a small, long-handled pot called a briki. The resulting coffee is strong, aromatic, and often served in a small cup with the fine grounds settled at the bottom. It is typically enjoyed slowly, accompanied by conversation or a sweet treat.
In addition to Greek coffee, Kefalonia's cafés also offer modern coffee options such as espressos, cappuccinos, and iced coffee drinks like the popular Greek Frappé—a frothy, cold coffee beverage made with instant coffee, water, sugar, and milk or cream.
Whether you prefer traditional or contemporary coffee styles, Kefalonia's vibrant coffee scene provides ample opportunities to savor a delicious cup of coffee while soaking in the island's relaxed atmosphere and beautiful surroundings.