Category: Travel Tips & News

  • Explore Kefalonia with Amari Villa: A Comprehensive Guide

    Introduction

    assos the ventian village 
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    Assos Kefalonia

    Just four hours away by plane, the white sandy shores of Kefalonia await! As the largest of the Ionian Islands, Kefalonia is a treasure trove of natural beauty, offering more than just stunning beaches. From the pristine Ainos mountain range to the enchanting Melissani Cave, Kefalonia is a destination that promises endless scenic adventures. Discover the magic of Kefalonia with Amari Villa, your ideal accommodation to explore this magnificent island.

    Why Kefalonia is a Must-Visit Destination

    Stunning Beaches

    Kefalonia boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in Greece. Myrtos Beach, with its dazzling white pebbles and turquoise waters, is a must-see. Antisamos Beach offers a more secluded experience, perfect for those looking to escape the crowds. The soft sands of Skala Beach stretch for miles, providing plenty of space for relaxation and sunbathing.

    Ainos Mountain Range

    For nature lovers and hiking enthusiasts, the Ainos Mountain Range is a paradise. Home to the unique Kefalonian fir trees, the range offers numerous trails that provide breathtaking views of the island and the surrounding sea. The highest peak, Mount Ainos, stands at 1,628 meters, offering a challenging yet rewarding hike.

    Enchanting Melissani Cave

    The entrance to Melissani Cave with its turquoise underground lake
    Enchanting Melissani Cave and its underground lake, Kefalonia

    A visit to Kefalonia is incomplete without exploring the Melissani Cave. This natural wonder features an underground lake that can be explored by boat. As sunlight streams through the cave’s opening, it illuminates the turquoise waters, creating a magical, otherworldly atmosphere. The cave is steeped in myth and legend, adding to its allure.

    Explore Kefalonia with Amari Villa

    Luxurious Accommodation

    Amari Villa provides the perfect base for your Kefalonian adventure. Located near some of the island’s top attractions, Amari Villa offers luxurious accommodation with stunning views of the Ionian Sea. Our villa is equipped with modern amenities, ensuring a comfortable and memorable stay.

    Tailored Experiences

    At Amari Villa, we understand that every traveller is unique. That’s why we offer tailored experiences to suit your interests. Whether you want to embark on a guided tour of the island, enjoy a private yacht excursion, or indulge in a traditional Greek cooking class, we can arrange it all.

    Convenient Location

    Situated in a prime location, Amari Villa is just a short drive from Kefalonia’s major attractions. Whether you’re interested in exploring historic sites, hiking through lush landscapes, or lounging on beautiful beaches, you’ll find everything within easy reach.

    Unforgettable Scenic Adventures

    Limestone Cliffs and Picturesque Bays

    fteri beach a hidden beach in kefalonia
    fteri beach a hidden beach in kefalonia

    Kefalonia’s landscape is dotted with limestone cliffs and picturesque bays that offer endless opportunities for exploration and adventure. The dramatic cliffs of Assos provide stunning vistas, while the serene waters of Fiskardo Bay are perfect for swimming and snorkeling. For a unique experience, visit the Drogarati Cave, known for its impressive stalactites and stalagmites.

    Charming Villages

    Discover the charm of Kefalonia’s villages, each with its own unique character and history. Argostoli, the island’s capital, is bustling with life and offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and cafes. The quaint village of Sami is known for its picturesque harbor and historic sites. Don’t miss the traditional fishing village of Katelios, where you can enjoy fresh seafood and local delicacies.

    Experience Kefalonian Culture

    Festivals and Traditions

    Kefalonia is rich in culture and traditions, with numerous festivals taking place throughout the year. The Robola Wine Festival celebrates the island’s famous wine, while the Feast of the Assumption is a major religious event featuring processions, music, and dancing. Immerse yourself in the local culture by participating in these vibrant celebrations.

    Culinary Delights

    Greek Lunch
    Vegan Greek Lunch – Greek Cusine, fine dining

    Kefalonian cuisine is a delightful blend of Mediterranean flavors. Sample traditional dishes such as moussaka, pastitsio, and kleftiko. Seafood lovers will enjoy fresh catches from the Ionian Sea, including grilled octopus and sardines. Don’t forget to try Kefalonia’s famous Robola wine, a crisp white wine produced from local grapes.

    Activities and Excursions

    Water Sports and Marine Adventures

    Kefalonia offers a wide range of water sports and marine activities. Go kayaking along the island’s coastline, explore underwater caves while scuba diving, or enjoy a leisurely paddleboarding session. The crystal-clear waters of the Ionian Sea are perfect for snorkeling, revealing a vibrant underwater world teeming with marine life.

    Historical and Archaeological Sites

    History enthusiasts will find plenty to explore in Kefalonia. Visit the Castle of St. George, a Venetian fortress offering panoramic views of the island. The Archaeological Museum of Argostoli houses artifacts dating back to the Mycenaean period. Discover the ancient ruins of Sami, an important port city in antiquity.

    Plan Your Trip to Kefalonia

    Best Time to Visit

    The best time to visit Kefalonia is during the spring and early autumn months when the weather is pleasant, and the island is less crowded. Summer is also a popular time, offering warm temperatures and vibrant beach scenes. Regardless of when you visit, Kefalonia’s natural beauty and cultural richness ensure an unforgettable experience.

    Travel Tips

    • Book in Advance: To secure the best accommodations and experiences, it’s advisable to book your trip well in advance.
    • Car Rental: Renting a car is recommended for exploring the island at your own pace.
    • Local Etiquette: Greeks are known for their hospitality. Respect local customs and traditions to enhance your experience.

    Conclusion

    Kefalonia is a destination that captivates the hearts of all who visit. From its stunning beaches and majestic mountains to its enchanting caves and charming villages, the island offers a wealth of experiences for every traveler. Explore Kefalonia with Amari Villa and discover the magic of this Ionian gem. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural enrichment, Kefalonia promises an unforgettable journey.

  • Top Tips for the Perfect Villa Holiday in Kefalonia

    Top Tips for the Perfect Villa Holiday in Kefalonia

    Top Tips for the Perfect Villa Holiday in Kefalonia, Greece – Villas in Kefalonia

    Why Kefalonia?

    The sun setting over the Ionian Sea is a sight to behold! It is difficult not panning across its vastness and watching as it sinks below the water, leaving only traces of itself behind in an endless ocean. If you have ever seen this from one of your many amazing views available on Kefalonia then we don’t need to say much more- but allow us just enough time for insight: what does making memories mean? Do they last longer than moments or are they somehow different depending upon where these happenings take place; can anything compare with viewing Greece’s breathtaking landscape through fresh eyes after having been there ourselves?

    Kefalonia Holiday villas
    Kefalonia from above

    The Island of Paradise

    The most beautiful of the Ionian islands, Kefalonia is located in the western part of Greece. The island has been called “the land of paradise” by many travellers for its lush green trees, incredible blue seas and flowers that cover every inch imaginable- even on top (or close) to Mount Ainos.

    villa holidays in Kefalonia , Amari Villa - Luxury Villa in Kefalonia
    View from mount ainos Kefalonia

    The history of Kefalonia is as old and vibrant as it gets. With a rich tradition dating back to the palaeolithic age, through Antiquity and Homer’s Epic poem of Odyssey; this island offers today almost everything you could want in your perfect getaway: nature at every turn along with some amazing locations that will leave no visitor disappointed!

    Summer holidays in Kefalonia are a great time for relaxing, exploring the island and enjoying your family. This island has been voted as one of the top 10 most beautiful places in Greece and offers an array of natural beauty, great beaches, fine cuisine and traditional villages to explore. You can also swim with turtles on the crystal clear waters or enjoy a relaxing cruise around the island

    Places to Visit

    South of the Island

    The capital city, Argostoli is a modern, bustling metropolis that offers visitors an array of gastronomic choices during the summer months and plenty to do in terms of nightlife. The main commercial road Lithostroto is a -a strictly pedestrian street full of stores dedicated exclusively toward satisfying any urge shoppers might have! The Main central square serves as a meeting point surrounded by restaurants/cafes where live concerts take place daily. On the seafront, you can watch turtles feeding on the leftovers from fishing boats. This is a great opportunity to see these amazing creatures up close and learn more about their feeding habits.

    villa rentals kefalonia
    Argostoli

    The most vibrant beaches in Kefalonia are located nearby, so it is no surprise that some of the best ones can be found here. Makris Gialos and Platys Gialos, Ai Helis, and Avithos (our favourite) stretch out into deep water with powder-soft sand underfoot- all waiting for you to explore them!

    The winding road to the south takes you through a series of small villages with breathtaking views and crystal-clear sea waters. There are many scenic villages with breathtaking views and crystal-clear sea waters on the way some of them include Spartia, Lourdas, Trapezaki, and Vlachata between Argostoli (the Capital city) and Skala. Beach bars, hotels and luxury villas spread out over several kilometres welcome guests in their efforts for relaxation or leisure activities such as fishing at one’s own pace along this picturesque coastline!

    Paliki Peninsula

    Opposite Argostoli, lies the island’s second major town. Lixouri, the largest city in Paliki Peninsula and home to some incredible beaches, Xi & Petani with beautiful views. If you are looking for something more than just an amazing beachfront then Lixouri has plenty of things worth seeing! To those that seek something more…a taste of the finer things in life, Lixouri and its surrounding area are also home to exquisite vineyards!

    North Kefalonia

    Your trip will take you to the northern part of the island, where the ancient port of Sami links the island to the port of Patras on the mainland. Sami is also the nearest city to two of Kefalonia’s historic sights: The most popular caves are the domed Cave of Drogarati and the lake Cave of Melissani. These are both unique spectacles that are definitely worth a visit. A dip in the waters of Antisamos beach (featured in the movie Captain Corelli’s Mandolin), one of the best in the Ionian Sea, is the perfect complement to your trip! All you need is your bathing suit and good vibes, as the beach’s famous bars will take care of the rest.

    Melissani Cave - Kefalonian Luxury Villas
    Natural wonder of Kefalonia

    The world-famous Myrtos Beach lies on the other side of the island’s northern peninsula. With its white pebbles and pool-like coloured waters, it has been voted numerous times as one of the best beaches in the world. Myrtos is both rugged and civil, offering a unique and unforgettable experience.

    When you’re finished admiring the beauty of Myrtos, head over to Assos to catch the sunset. With its traditional architecture and quaint houses and taverns, it’s like stepping into a postcard. The Venetian castle that overlooks the village has been standing guard for centuries, making you feel safe.

    Villa rentals Kefalonia - Amari Villa Spartia
    assos amari villa kefalonia greece luxury villas in kefalonia

    Fiskardo, located on the northern peninsula of the island, is a famous cosmopolitan village. Named after a medieval Norman Duke, Fiskardo is the only village left standing after the devastating earthquakes of 1953. As a result, the village presents a unique piece of the architectural history of Kefalonia. The port and surrounding bay are perfect for a leisurely stroll – no cars are allowed within the village. Alternatively, you can enjoy the sun at the nearby beaches of Foki and Emplisi. If you feel like getting some exercise before sunbathing, you can follow the marked hiking trails to isolated beaches.

    Rent a boat and visit one of the many secluded beaches in the area that can be accessed only by water. These beaches are covered with pine and fir trees, and extend all the way to the sea!

    There are many other great places to visit on the island, including monasteries, hiking trails, and the National Forest Park of Mount Ainos with its unique Black Fir trees. But we’ll leave some of the best for you to discover on your own including churches, monasteries

    Patron saint of Kefalonia - St Gerasimos -  Family Villa holidays kefalonia
    Agios Gerasimos – St George’s church

    Food & Drink

    The local products of Kefalonia are highly prized, with each sip and bite having the ability to bring back cherished memories. Robola wines, cheeses, honey, and extra-virgin olive oil are some of the most popular products on the island.

    If you’re looking for a truly memorable dining experience in Kefalonia, be sure to try dishes made with fresh fish, locally sourced meat and vegetables. And if you really want to experience the best of what this Greek island has to offer, don’t miss out on its delicious pies (known as pites in Greek). You’ll find them on the menu at most restaurants, but for the best pies, head to a family-run taverna where they’re made by the mother in the kitchen.

    Getting To Kefalonia

    There are three popular ways to get to Kefalonia in the summer: by flying, by ferry, or by car.

    Flying

    Flying is the quickest way to get to Kefalonia, and there is one Airport on the Island. The international airport – “Anna Pollatou” is located 7km from Argostoli, There are a number of airlines that fly to Kefalonia, including Ryanair, Easyjet, British Airways, Olympic/Aegean and Jet2.

    Ferries

    Ferries are another popular way to get to the island. There are a few different ferry companies that operate routes to Kefalonia. The main ports are Sami, Poros and Argostoli. The journey from mainland Greece takes around four hours.

    Car

    Finally, you can also drive to Kefalonia. The drive from Athens takes around eight hours, and from Thessaloniki, it takes around six hours.

    Bus

    Bus from Patras to Kefalonia. This bus will take you to the mainland port of Killini and board the car ferry to Kefalonia. This journey will take just over 3 hours. You can alight from the ferry in Sami or carry on the bus journey to Argostoli.

    Where to Stay?

    Tips for the perfect Villa Holiday in Kefalonia include staying at a villa with a pool or beach nearby, having plenty of space to cook and relax, finding time to explore the surrounding villages, and most importantly making sure to relax in between days spent exploring.

    We truly feel that once you have decided to come to Kefalonia for your holidays, you will find your perfect luxury villa holiday in Kefalonia.

    Spend your summer in this luxury villa with a private pool and stunning sea views. It’s meters from the beach, and has a spacious garden, great for families that want to enjoy some peace & quiet or fun times together by taking advantage of all there is on offer at this destination has so much more than just sunbathing! You will be able to do relaxing activities such as reading under shady trees while enjoying delicious food cooked over an open bbq; perhaps take part in water sports like snorkelling – whatever suits you best we’re sure it awaits inside… Book your stay now. Just situated outside the fishing village of Spartia and a 15-minute drive from Kefalonia International Airport.

    Your Kefalonia adventure awaits you………..

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