Getting Started with Kefalonia
With its sprawling landscapes and stunning coastline, driving around Kefalonia offers a unique way to experience this enchanting island. Whether you’re exploring the rugged cliffs or cruising along the picturesque beaches, a car provides the freedom to stop and soak in the vibrant surroundings. Renting a car is straightforward, with prices typically ranging from 30 to 60 euros a day depending on the season and vehicle type.
Collecting Your Car
Car rental agencies are located near the airport in Argostoli and throughout popular towns like Sami and Lixouri. The process usually takes just a few minutes with paperwork and a quick overview of the vehicle. Make sure to inspect the car for any pre-existing scratches to avoid future disputes.
The Roads of Kefalonia
The roads on the island can be a mixed bag. While major routes are generally well-maintained, smaller roads often become narrow and winding. For instance, the road leading to Myrtos Beach, a flat expanse of white pebbles, offers stunning views but can be intimidating for first-time visitors. Drive slowly, especially on the steeper sections. As a rule of thumb, if you’re not comfortable on mountain roads, take extra caution.
First Stop: Myrtos Beach
About 30 kilometers from Argostoli, Myrtos Beach is one of those places where you feel like you’ve stepped into a postcard. The colors of the sea shift between turquoise and deep blue, contrasting beautifully with the white pebbles. Parking is available near the beach, but it fills up fast. Arrive early, preferably by 9 AM, to secure your spot. The beach comes alive with the chatter of visitors and the sounds of waves lapping against the shore, but it does get crowded by 11 AM.
Exploring Assos Village
Continue your drive north to the village of Assos, just 20 kilometers from Myrtos Beach. The drive offers panoramic views of the coastline, dotted with olive trees and wildflowers. Assos itself is charming, with colorful houses cascading down lush hillsides. Grab a coffee at a local café; prices are fairly reasonable at around 3 euros for a cappuccino. The village’s serene atmosphere makes it a perfect pit stop.
The Melissani Cave Experience
About 30 minutes from Assos lies the Melissani Cave, an underground lake that truly astonishes. The entrance is easy to miss, with an unassuming gate that leads to a long, narrow stairway. Tickets cost around 7 euros, and tours are typically offered every half hour from 9 AM until 7 PM. The moment you step into the cave, the air cools. Sunlight streams through a collapsed section of the cave, creating a ethereal blue glow that dances on the water’s surface. A gentle rowing boat takes you around the lake, and the stillness fills the space with a tranquil energy.
Dining on the Island
After a day of exploration, you might find yourself in Lixouri, famous for its tavernas and seafood. Visit a local eatery to sample fresh grilled octopus or a plate of shrimp saganaki. Meals are inexpensive, often starting from about 12 euros. The ambience is filled with laughter and the clinking of plates as locals and tourists engage in friendly conversation. The smell of grilled fish wafts through the air, offering a tempting invitation to sit down and relax.
A Caveat to Driving
The appeal of driving around Kefalonia is undeniable, but it comes with challenges. Some rural roads lack signage, making navigation tricky. GPS apps are often unreliable. I recommend downloading offline maps or having an old-fashioned paper map handy. Also, be prepared for occasional sheep crossings on rural routes. These encounters can be amusing, but they may delay your travel plans.
Wrapping Up Your Adventure
As your time on the island winds down, consider stopping at Argostoli’s harbor for one last view of the sunset. The colors create a stunning backdrop against the sea, reflecting perfectly on the water. The drive back to your accommodation is a relaxing way to end the day, with the evening air filled with the scent of salt and pine. Relax, take it slow, and savor each moment on this beautiful island. Each corner has its own story waiting to unfold. Just remember that, like the roads themselves, not every path is straightforward, but that’s part of the adventure.