Kefalonia, the largest of the Ionians, is a green and mountainous island, with beautiful beaches and exceptionally clear turquoise water. The scenery is magnificent, with dramatic limestone cliffs fringed by cypress, olive and fir trees. Excellent for walkers: visit at the beginning of May, and you will be rewarded with carpets of poppies and wild flowers everywhere.

Resorts are spread out around the island, with Lassi, one of the most developed, being within walking distance of Argostoli (the capital). Kefalonia never seems overcrowded, although some of the resorts get busy in high season. Sightseeing can include underground lakes and caves, Venetian castles, hidden monasteries, Roman and Mycenean remains, plus strings of secluded mountain villages.
Argostoli, the capital, is a thriving modern town of about 12,500, scenicly situated on a bay. The town has a good shopping area and some great tavernas favoured by locals. There’s a fruit and veg market on the harbour front, as well as some good bakeries, cafés and kafenia - and this is a good place to sit and watch the activities of the local ferries.

The hub of the town’s social activity takes place around the cafés and restaurants of Valianou Square in the town centre, where the evening volta (promenade) takes place. There’s quite a buzz around here in summer, particularly during August when the Greeks and Italians are on holiday.