Kefalonia, one of Greece's enchanting islands, has been a sought-after tourist destination since the early 1980s. Situated in close proximity to Italy, it has become a favorite vacation spot for many Italians.
Being one of the largest islands in Greece, Kefalonia is well-equipped to accommodate a large number of visitors during the summer months, offering something for everyone.
Kefalonia's popularity can be attributed to its diverse range of cultural and natural attractions. The island boasts two captivating fishing villages, Fiscardo and Assos, which draw tourists with their charm and picturesque landscapes.
Additionally, Kefalonia is home to several natural wonders, such as the breathtaking Melissani underground lake, the awe-inspiring Drogarati caves, and the famous Myrtos Beach.
These attractions have contributed significantly to the island's reputation, with Kefalonia gaining international recognition through its appearance in the film "Captain Corelli's Mandolin" (2001), which was shot on location.
One of the notable aspects of Kefalonia is its commitment to preserving its pristine beauty. The local government has implemented strict regulations that prohibit the construction of new hotels and limit road development, ensuring that the island retains its natural and authentic ambiance.
While this approach promotes nature and cultural preservation, it also presents challenges, particularly for entrepreneurs and businesses seeking opportunities for growth. However, the advantages of maintaining Kefalonia's original appearance and protecting its natural resources far outweigh the disadvantages.
Kefalonia experiences a Mediterranean climate, characterized by hot and sunny summers and mild, humid winters. Snowfall occasionally graces the island's mountains during the winter season, while July often brings dry weather with intermittent rainfall.
Although summers generally see rain showers, the dry air causes the rain to evaporate before reaching the ground, making it barely noticeable.
Covering an area of 773 square kilometers (300 square miles), Kefalonia is the largest island in its regional unit. The population density stands at around 300 people per square kilometer (2 people per square mile).
Argostoli, the capital, houses approximately one-third of the island's population. Lixouri, the second-largest town on the island, together with Argostoli, comprises around two-thirds of the total population.
Cruise ships heading to Kefalonia dock at either Argostoli or Fiscardo. While Argostoli serves as the capital, it does not possess the typical Venetian-style architecture found in other western Greek towns.
During the tourist off-season, employment opportunities on the island are scarce, prompting a significant percentage of the local population to seek work abroad during the winter months.
Consequently, it is common to encounter Greeks with American accents on the island. Although English is widely understood, some older individuals may still have limited proficiency in the language.
However, due to the island's historical ties with Italy, Italian is universally recognized and appreciated. A simple greeting in Greek anywhere on the island is sure to evoke a warm response from the locals.
