Last Minute Kefalonia
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Kefalonia is an Ionian oasis with crystal-clear coastal waters and pretty open landscapes. Home to ravishing fishing villages and harbours, Kefalonia provides perfect sailing and swimming waters for its lucky visitors. However, the inland region is equally bewitching, with fresh flower meadows and the audible chime of capra (goats). With many exquisite hotels and resorts to pick from, Kefalonia is an outstanding last-minute holiday destination.
The top 5 things to do last-minute in Kefalonia
1. Argostoli
Kefalonia’s largest settlement is a kaleidoscope of activity and the island’s busiest port. But don’t let that fool you - the town may be laid-back and timeless but its foot is placed firmly in the future. From the sumptuous gardens of Cephalonia Botanica to the excellent Korgialenio History & Folklore Museum, Argostoli is a stylish town with pretty waterfront walks and views.
2. Drogarati Cave
Drogarati Cave is a spectacular cave system that was discovered in the 18th century after an earthquake made it visible. After a long descent, you'll find a wonderland of magical stalagmites and stalactites, which have formed over millions of years. Today, the cave provides cooling respite for hot summer days with exceptional views (and acoustics) that are sure to thrill.
3. Melissani Lake
This island marvel consists of an ancient underground lake hidden by a cave system. Lit by a slight cavity in the rock above, the glistening blue waters are perfect for sailing. The cave itself has an intriguing mythological basis as the site where the nymph Melissani drowned following her rejection by Pan. Its allure increased when items depicting Pan were discovered in the cave in 1962.
4. Asos
One of Kefalonia’s most charming settlements is found hugging the coast in the north. Asos sits on a breathtaking natural harbour with a picture-postcard land bridge hosting charming pink and yellow villas. As if the village wasn't charismatic enough, the impressive ruins of a Venetian castle can be found on a crag overlooking the bay, accessible by a winding stone path.
5. Beach-bound beauty
You can take your pick of secluded beaches and gorgeous sea scenes on Kefalonia. Every corner of the island is blessed with bewitching beach-bound beauty. Among the top beaches include Petani and Myrtos. Both are found below towering slopes with wide stretches of glistening white sand and marble pebbles. You’re quite simply spoilt for choice.
Our best last-minute hotels in Kefalonia
1.
Kefalonia Grand Hotel 4*
Located just moments from Argostoli's centre, this well-placed hotel offers sumptuous views over the bay and surrounding mountains from its terraces. With a whitewashed aesthetic and an emphasis on found objects and rustic wood furnishings, this hotel’s elegant interiors are bound to impress. This continues into the bedroom, where guests are treated to sophisticated décor and impressive balcony views.
2.
Cavos Inn
Idyllically located beneath Asos' atmospheric Venetian ruins, this charming boutique hotel in the heart of the village offers excellent links to the surrounding countryside. The hotel itself is a dreamland of cosy mahogany furnishings and patio views. The dining area, in particular, is magical, with panoramic views across the bay. This is the perfect space for evening relaxation.
3.
Thalassa Hotel 4*
Located in a charming neoclassical building with ornate furnishings and plenty of floral prints, this is a timeless hotel with pretty views. Just moments from the picturesque Paleostafida Beach, sea rooms come with jaw-dropping views of vistas out over the turquoise waters. Common areas are equally charming, with a serene swimming complex and gardens offering open views of the landscape.
4.
Cosi's Inn
Located in the heart of Asos, this sumptuous boutique hotel offers views across both sides of the picturesque harbour. Guests are spoilt with the luxuriant interiors and spectacular balcony views. What’s more, there are plenty of leafy green trails to wander along as you make your way into the village and its vibrant tavernas. You can enjoy watching the quaint fishing boats as they frequent the harbour from the comfort of the hotel’s tranquil terraces.
5.
Zephyros Hotel
This quiet and secluded hotel near the sleepy village of Skala is the perfect antidote to modern life. The seashore glistens in the background of the hotel’s leafy confines, with a wealth of fantastic facilities and services to indulge in. From the large and cooling natural pool complex to the quiet terraces for evening contemplation, this relaxing retreat is perfect for couples and families alike.
When is the best time to go on a last-minute holiday to Kefalonia?
Kefalonia is a pleasure to visit year-round, though you may want to avoid July and its crowds. Summer is hot, dry and long, with warmth often continuing well into October. Spring is also a fantastic season to explore the island, as you'll find blooming flowers and wafts of oleander. Even the low season, like autumn, can be a pleasure as you'll find mild temperatures more favourable for walking - just be prepared for reduced tourist services.
Going on holiday in Kefalonia
You can reach the majestic island of Kefalonia by boat or plane, with connections to the Greek mainland and throughout Europe. You can also arrive by ferry from Brindisi, Italy. Once you've arrived on the island, it’s advisable to rent a car to explore the scenery at your own pace. There are buses too, but they can be inconvenient, especially in the off-season.
Enjoy your last-minute family holiday in Kefalonia
Kefalonia is extremely child-friendly, with gorgeous resorts and hotels offering easy access to shallow beaches and paddling pools. Tavernas are always welcoming to children and kids are bound to be excited by the island's ancient ruins. If you're looking for something to do with the little ones, consider the island's magnificent caves and underground lakes.
The Voyage Privé travel expert’s opinion on Kefalonia
Kefalonia's easy-going charm and picture-postcard villages are easy to lose yourself in. As the largest Ionian island, it's also the most varied, offering serene seascapes, beautiful beaches and rugged rural escapes. With quick and easy connections to Athens and mainland Europe, it's the perfect last-minute vacation for those pining sun and sand. But there are more than just beaches here; you'll find ravishing harbours and ancient ruins, as well as cutting-edge boutiques and forward-thinking towns. Choose from a wealth of special hand-picked hotels when you book your last-minute holiday in Kefalonia with Voyage Privé.