Kefalonia Unveiled: Yacht Charter Adventures in a Greek Gem

Kefalonia, the biggest of the Ionian Islands, has beautiful blue waters around it, making the scenery particularly stunning. The lively blue waters add to its beauty even more. It’s a perfect place for a Greek yacht trip, with beautiful beaches, good restaurants, secret caves, lovely villages, and more.

Since the island is so large, you may want to plan to stay for a few days. That way, you’ll be able to see all this gorgeous island has to offer.

Kefalonia, also called Cephalonia, boasts the beauty of nature, offering visitors a perfect and untouched paradise. The island welcomes guests with stunning scenery, clear waters, and a rich mix of history and culture.

Climate

Kefalonia has a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, rainy winters. Here are some important details about the weather:

Summer (June to August): Summers in Kefalonia are sunny and warm. For example, temperatures often hover between 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F). Certainly, it is the best time for people who love the beach and water activities.
Autumn (September to November): Autumn brings milder temperatures and fewer crowds. It is a great time for hiking and touring Kefalonia’s natural beauty. In fact, average temperatures range from 20°C to 28°C (68°F to 82°F). This, indeed, creates a lovely weather for outdoor adventures.
Winter (December to February): In winter, it’s not too cold, usually staying above 10°C (50°F). It’s also the time when it rains more. If you like being alone and want a cheaper trip, coming during this quieter time is a good idea.
Spring (March to May): In spring, the island comes back to life with lots of flowers and green views. In addition, The weather is nice, with temperatures ranging from 14°C to 22°C (57°F to 72°F). Certainly, the weather is perfect for outdoor activities.

Places to see on Kefalonia Island

Explore the wonders of Melissani Lake Cave, which is a part of the island. Take a tour of the lake inside the cave. When the sun is right above noon, its light touches the greenish-blue waters. This indeed fills the cave with a magical blue glow.
Fiskardo. Fiskardo is a charming place, with beautiful pebbled beaches and peaceful coves all around. So if you’re into old churches, Fiskardo is an interesting place to explore. Not to mention, some others have traced their origins back to Byzantine times.
Asos Castle in Asos. The Venetians built this castle in 1593. It’s a great example of military architecture and one of the biggest ones in Greece.
Wineries. Sclavos Winery on Kefalonia welcomes visitors to enjoy guided tours and wine tastings.
Mt Ainos. This mountain is in the north and offers hiking opportunities for the more adventurous type.
Myrtos Beach: Frequently listed among the world’s most beautiful beaches, Myrtos showcases breathtaking waters embraced by dramatic cliffs.
Assos Village: This charming fishing village has colorful houses and a Venetian fortress that looks over the bay.
Drogarati Cave: Marvel at the mesmerizing stalactites and stalagmites of Drogarati Cave, created over thousands of years.
Korgialenio Historical and Folklore Museum: Immerse yourself in Kefalonia’s cultural heritage through the exhibits at this museum. It is in a modern classical home.
Agios Andreas Monastery: Visit this serene monastery perched on a hill which provides panoramic views and a tranquil atmosphere.
Katavothres: Explore the mysterious Katavothres, where seawater disappears into sinkholes and reemerges in Melissani Lake.
Lighthouse of Agioi Theodoroi: Witness breathtaking sunsets from the iconic lighthouse on a rugged cape overlooking the Ionian Sea.

Things to Do on Kefalonia Island

Beachcombing: Enjoy a stroll along the shore, discovering beaches like Petani, Xi, and Myrtos. Taking a refreshing swim in the turquoise waters would also be most lovely.
Exploring beaches: You can spend your days swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing at various secluded coves. Undoubtedly, this is a delightful way to experience the beauty of Kefalonia.
Watersports: Try your hand at thrilling water sports such as windsurfing, paddleboarding, and jet skiing in the island’s pristine waters.
Hiking: Lace up your hiking boots and explore the island’s trails, especially those leading to Mount Ainos, Kefalonia’s highest peak. It is in a national park.
Scuba Diving: Dive beneath the waves to discover Kefalonia’s underwater treasures, from vibrant marine life to mesmerizing caves.
Explore Underground Lakes: Hop on a boat to tour Melissani Cave. Or, check out the underground lakes in Katavothres for something different.
Wine Tasting: Savor the island’s wines, particularly the Robola variety, by visiting local wineries and vineyards.
Horseback Riding: Explore the island’s beauty on a horse, riding through green valleys and along untouched beaches by the sea.
Cultural Festivals: Check local event calendars for festivals celebrating Kefalonia’s rich cultural heritage. These festivals often feature events such as music, dance, and traditional cuisine.
Sunset Cruises: Start making lasting memories by sailing into the beautiful sunset on your yacht. With the stunning Ionian Sea in the background, this experience is sure to feel truly magical.

Gastronomy

On Kefalonia Greece, native recipes abound, and recipes often pass from generation to generation. Meat dishes include classics such as Souvlakia, Stifado (veal cooked with onions and tomato sauce), and Giovetsi (lamb cooked with rice). In addition, you’ll find fish, shellfish, locally grown vegetables, honey, and cheese. Try local cheeses such as Feta, Manuri, Kefalotiri, Tirokafteri, mizithra, and Pretza.

Kefalonia’s cuisine is a journey of flavors, blending fresh ingredients and traditional recipes. Here are a few of the other tasty treats to try:

Kreatopita: Sample “kreatopita,” a savory meat pie made with layers of flaky pastry as well as seasoned ground meat.
Robola Wine: Pair your meals with Robola Wine, a local favorite known for its crispness and unique character.
Seafood: Savor the catch of the day. Specifically, this includes everything from grilled octopus to “bourdeto,” a spicy fish stew, and “gavros,” anchovies marinated in vinegar.
Taramosalata: Enjoy “taramosalata,” a creamy dip made from fish roe, olive oil, and lemon juice, served with fresh bread.
Moussaka: Enjoy “moussaka,” a tasty dish made with layers of eggplant, meat, and creamy sauce, baked just right.
Kefalonian Meat Pie: Taste the signature dish, “Kefalonian meat pie”. It is indeed, a hearty pie filled with ground meat, rice, and spices.
Feta Cheese: Relish creamy feta cheese, often served with local honey and sesame seeds.
Rovani: Satisfy your sweet tooth with “rovani,” a traditional semolina cake soaked in syrup and sprinkled with cinnamon.
Kreatopita: Try “kreatopita,” a beef or pork pie with herbs inside a crispy pastry shell.

Kefalonia is well-known for its delightful wines. The most famous ones, in particular, are Robola (white and dry), Mavrodafne (red, strong, and sweet), and Muscat (sweet and white).

Marinas and Anchorages

Fiskardo Marina. This marina has water and electricity, a restaurant and bar, and a grocery store.

Lixouri South Marina. A large harbor in the village of Lixouri 30 km west of Argostoli. Amenities include water, a restaurant, a grocery store, and ATM.

Foki Bay. This is a very popular spot where boats like to stop, a few coves south of Fiskardo. The tasty pie, filled with ground meat, rice, and spices, truly gives a satisfying experience.

Kefalonia is one of the islands and destinations many charter guests experience on an Ionian Islands Yacht Charter.

Essential Travel Guide

Explore Myrtos Beach: Swim in the crystal-clear blue waters of this beautiful beach. You may also enjoy the view of the cliffs along the coast of the island.

Quaint Fishing Villages: Immerse yourself in the charm of Kefalonia’s fishing villages along the coast. These villages have a special charm, giving you an authentic Kefalonian Greek island experience.

Petani Beach and Makris Gialos: Enjoy the golden sands and inviting blue waters of Petani Beach and Makris Gialos. Without a doubt, these two spots showcase the peaceful charm of Kefalonia’s coast.

Nature Park Exploration: Explore the island’s natural beauty by visiting national parks. These places have many different plants and animals. What’s more, the landscapes are natural and untouched.

Cinematic Adventure: Follow the path of Captain Corelli’s Mandolin. Moreover, visit landscapes that inspired the famous novel and film, adding a touch of cinematic magic to your coastal exploration.