Kefalonia is an increasingly well-known tourist destination that attracts
thousands of visitors each year. This is because the island has a beautiful,
unique, natural environment, friendly inhabitants and a rich historic and
cultural heritage. It is one of the few Greek islands that retain areas of dense
forest, particularly around Fiscardo, in the north, where the trees often reach
almost to the sea.
Plentiful sandy, pebble and rocky beaches, forests, friendly faces and the
special architectural rhythm are just some of the reasons why visitors choose
the island as their holiday destination.
Even today, in an era of mass tourism, Kefalonia remains largely unspoilt. A
vibrant night life is there for those who want it but it is also possible to
spend a tranquil holiday in almost total privacy. One of the most attractive
qualities of Kefalonia is its safety, crime is almost non-existent.
It is the largest of the Ionian islands being some 800 kmē (300 square miles)
but only 45,000 live there.
Climate
Kefalonia has a Mediterranean climate; the summers are hot with very little
rainfall.
Summer temperatures range from 13.8C to 40.2C and in the winter 2.2C to 22.3 C.
Language
The official language is Greek; English is widely spoken as are Italian, French
and German.
Currency
The unit of currency is the Euro; most places accept credit cards or traveller's
cheques and Euro cheques.
Local cuisine
The food is Greek with an emphasis on seafood, fresh vegetables and fruit. There
are many Kefalonian specialties among them the local white wine, robola, which
is one of the best in Greece, fine honey from bees feeding on thyme, feta
cheese, virgin olive oil, and Kefalonian meat pie. The island is also known for
its many grape varieties.
Local markets
The villages have mini markets for essentials and Argostoli, the capital, offers
a wide range of fresh fruits and vegetables (most of them local products) in a
colourful market. Argostoli is also well served by large supermarket chains.
