Kefalonia holidays have long been held as something special – and it’s evident that Mother Nature certainly did a number on this beautiful island. Pine-clad hills, rocky cliff tops and pristine lagoons, picture-postcard bays and swathes of soft golden sand. This is what holidays are made of, and it has caught the attention of visitors who want something more memorable than the average beach break in Greece.
In fact the sheer beauty of Kefalonia also caught the attention of the film industry and, in the Summer of 2000, the island was awash with film crews shooting scenes for the film adaptation of Louis de Bernieres’ novel Captain Corelli’s Mandolin. The screenplay starred famous names including Nicholas Cage, Penelope Cruz and John Hurt, with the majority of filming taking place in Sami along with the surrounding countryside and craggy hills.
The result was spectacular scenery and a moving storyline that captured the imagination of viewers all over the world. The island has since seen a surge of visitors but despite the added attention, has managed to remain relatively underdeveloped and has retained its low-key charm.
Visitors mainly come to the island through large-scale tour operators such as Thomas Cook, often staying in the main resorts of Lassi – generally the biggest and best-known holiday resort – or the smaller towns of Skala and Lourdas. For a really tranquil experience, travellers head for the cliffs and coves of Fiskardo – a hidden cluster of villas and quaint houses that’s just perfect for a romantic retreat or honeymoon.
Kefalonia is a treat for the senses and is the ideal place to get away to for some much needed rest and relaxation. Wherever you choose to stay, this glorious island will have you hooked and you’ll soon see why visitors choose to come back here year after year.
Image credit: Matlock-Photo via Flickr Commercial License
