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Cephalonia – the Jewel of the Ionian Islands

26 July 2014 / 18:07:13  GRReporter
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Cephalonia is a true heaven for nature lovers where the caretta caretta sea turtles, dolphins and monk seals can be closely observed.
This is the largest of the Ionian Islands, only 35 km away from continental Greece and 30 km away from the Peloponnese. It is culturally influenced by neighbouring Italy. Lord Byron said that Cephalonia is the island of variety. And he was definitely right since you can return to Cephalonia again and again, and always discover something new. What deserves your close attention?
Here are some suggestions.

A village for princesses
The tiny village of Assos and its 15th century fortress is a must to visit and enjoy both a delicious dinner in the small harbour and an amazing sunset. Prince Charles and Princess Diana visited Assos during their honeymoon trip.
Argostoli
The capital of the island, Argostoli, is protected by a natural harbour. Do not miss Koutavos sea lake iwth its surrounding thick vegetation and the magic forest of tall eucalyptus trees. Argostoli has many hotels, restaurants, and everything a visitor could wish for.

The rival
Lixouri is a modern town, fully rebuilt after the earthquake of 1953 and it has nothing to envy Argostoli for. There are interesting sightseeing spots and some of the most picturesque Cephalonia beaches are nearby.
Sami
This is the major harbour of Cephalonia. You will be impressed by its thick vegetation, archaeological sites and caves revealing to visitors geologic phenomena of unique beauty.
Enchanting Fiscardo
This is a gem of a little scenic harbour and traditional houses. It is a cosmopolitan place and yachts from all over the world berth in its marina. Fiscardo was spared from destruction unlike the rest of the villages on the island in the 1953 earthquake. Old houses are preserved to pertain to the historic architectural tradition of the island. One can see the island of Ithaca from Fiscardo.
White sand, heavenly holiday
Mitros beach, its white sand and emerald waters are famous throughout the world with their unique beauty. Ksi beach stands out with its unique red sand. It is worth visiting the beaches of Makris Yalos, Petani, Agios Theodoros, Emplisi, Paleostafida, Antisthamos, Skala, Minia, Spartia, Avitos, Agios Thomas, Lourdas. Hire a yacht to sail to the otherwise unreachable isolated beaches.

For your pallet to rejoice
If you are a good cuisine aficionado, this is your place! Taste local delicacies and do not deny yourself the local meat pie or rabbit stew with red wine. Cephalonia is famous for its pies – try the one with artichoke or the one with fish. Do not miss the desserts – almond pie, confetto (baked quince), barboule (honey caramelised almonds).

 

Tags: Cephalonia Ionian Islands caretta caretta sea turtles dolphins monk seals travel notes
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