Local Area Information

The villa is set in a secluded position but only 100m from the village amenities where there are several tavernas (To Kati Allo, Obelisk,The International, To Pstiri Grill House, En Kefalinia), bars ( Mescalero) and Cafe Mode, a cake shop, bakery and mini market all within easy walking distance.

Places to visit

There are lots of things to do in Kefalonia and below are a selection you may wish to see while on holiday.

The Monastery of St Gerasimos

This monastery holds the casket containing the body of St Gerasimos and is the centre of the Orthodox Church in Kefalonia, being an important centre for pilgrims for generations.

Festivals happen twice a year at the monastery 16th August (The date of the saint's death) and the 20th October (The removal of his relics) People from all over Greece with incurable diseases arrive hoping that Gerasimos the miracle worker will cure them. Both the church and the monastery are open to the public free of charge. However, the church is often closed during the afternoons. There is a dress code but wraps are available if you are considered unsuitably dressed.

Robola Winery

This large winery is next door to the monastery of Agios Gerasimos and is open daily. Tours of the winery are available free of charge and you can taste the wines before you buy. Robola is a large co-operative for the vineyards in the area and it produces very nice Greek wine.

Mount Ainos National Park.

The summit of the mountain is 1626 mtrs above sea level and on a clear day gives the most beautiful views. There is a good tarmac road and it is a beautiful place for walking. A herd of about 30 native wild horses live on the mountain and if you are lucky you may catch a glimpse.

Kastro

This is the castle of Agios Georgios (St George) and is a ruined castle prominently situated on top of a hill about 8 km south of Argostoli. You can drive to the top of the hill, parking in the village and then walk to the castle which closes at 14:30. The castle was the capital and administrative seat of the island until 1757 and the nobility lived within the walls. Following the emergence of Argostoli as the capital the castle fell into ruins.There are 3 nice restaurants/coffee shops ( The Olive Lounge,To Castro & Il Borgo ) which are well worth a visit.

Drogorati Caves

The cave has been open to tourists since 1963 and is 40 km deep. There is 1 large cavern which has hosted concerts and operas due to its acoustics. It is off the Argostoli to Sami road to the south of Sami and close to Chaliotata. There is an admission charge but there is also a coffee shop with swimming pool near the entrance.

Melissani Lake

This is another cave system but is unique because a part of the roof collapsed to allow sunlight to make amazing colours in the blue, cold water. Access is by steps and a long tunnel at the end of which you are met by a boatman who will row you around the stunning water and may even sing to you. There is an admission charge. It is located at Karavomilos north of Sami and is well sign posted.