by Dawn Ilsley

Created on: August 31, 2011   Last Updated: September 01, 2011

Kefalonia (or Cephalonia) is the largest of the Greek Ionian Islands. It is very popular tourist destination due to its warm weather, gorgeous beaches and stunning views and makes the perfect holiday destination for families and couples.

Poros is a small town but it can be busy as it is the docking port for the large cruise ships that visit the island and whose passengers enjoy the pebbly beach accompanied by crystal clear water. The front is lined with brightly coloured tavernas and the town, set back from the road, is bustling and pretty and an ideal place to buy souvenirs.

The countryside can seem quite barren in the southern part of the island. Kefalonia is quite mountainous so be prepared for rather hair-raising coach journeys when visiting various parts of the island.

Melissani Lakes - this is an extremely popular tourist attraction. There are busloads arriving all the time which can make this feel quite hectic. You need to queue down a cave entrance which can be a little slippery so caution is advised. At the end you will be suddenly transfixed by the most amazing turquoise lake. The ceiling of a cave fell in and revealed this natural wonder to the world. You transfer to large boats where an oarsman transports you across the lake and into a cave. The water is the most amazing colour and extremely deep. The cave is very narrow and the boats only just have room to pass each other. If you are lucky you will get a guide who will tell you all the stories about the area. Before you know it you are being transferred back to dry land. Although this is a beautiful place to see the experience is very short (about 10 minutes) and you do feel ushered through quickly without much chance just to stand and marvel at the beauty but it is still a visit that shouldn’t be missed.

Caves of Drogarti - it is not far from the lakes to these caves. They are easily accessed down some steep steps which would not suit those with walking or breathing difficulties although there are seats available to allow visitors to rest. The caves obviously used to contain an impressive display of stalagmites and stalactites although many of these have been damaged as they were used for target practice during the war. The caves are also used as a theatre and although you are not supposed to touch the rocks some have probably been damaged that way too. The caves are beautifully lit and give a welcome respite from the piercing Greek sun.

Sami - this attractive fishing

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