Cephalonia, the largest of the Ionian Islands, offers a fascinating history, an unspoilt landscape and some of the best beaches in this part of Greece. According to the Greek mythology, the King of Cephalonia, Amphitryon, king of Thebes, was helped by the Athenian, Kefalos, to oust the Native Taphians, and in return, the island was given as a gift to Kefalos, from whom it got is name. The island was part of the Turkish empire in the 15th century, then occupied by the Venetians, then the French, and finally Great Britain, until 1864 when the Ionian islands joined the rest Greece. The island suffered a catastrophic earthquake in 1953, which destroyed entire towns and villages, including the island’s capital, Argostoli. Now rebuilt, Argostoli has an attractive waterfront where local fishermen sell directly from their boats. The central square, Platia Vallianou, is filled with cafes and the town offers a good selection of tavernas and restaurants, shops and nightlife. There is also an Archeological Museum, and the Corgialeneion Historical and Folk Art Museum.

With its mountainous interior providing the scenic backdrop to beautiful, white sand and pebble beaches, the island offers much of interest to those wanting to walk and explore, as well as beach lovers. There are secluded white coves, hidden by high cliffs, waiting to be discovered, and caves, including that of the island’s patron saint, St Gerassimos. There is also the Cave of Drongorati, the underground lake at Mellisani, churches, monasteries, and remote mountain villages. Two of the most popular sand beaches are in Lassi, close to Argostoli, Markrys Gialos and Platys Gialos. Myrtos, the setting for many photographs, is famous for its clear deep turquoise and dark blue waters, contrasting with white pebbles, and a ‘must’ to visit for its beauty. However, access is via a steep road and the beach is here is not so suitable for small children. Picturesque towns and villages, well worth a visit, include the traditional village of Fiskardo, the small town of Poros, with the tomb of Odysseus nearby, the harbour town of Sami where Captain Corelli’s Mandolin was filmed, and the fascinating villages of Livatho which captivated Lord Byron with their beauty.

The highest mountain, Ainos, now a national park, is also a ‘must’ to visit with its famous wild horses, which can be found near the Zoodochos Pygi monastery, near the only source of water on the mountain. Winter rains make this one of the greenest Greek islands. The many olive groves and vineyards offer some of the best wine and olive oil in Greece. The island hosts many feasts, festivals and religious and cultural events throughout the year, with most taking place during the summer. From the island there are daytrips to the neighbouring islands Ithaca, Lefkas and Zakynthos, and to Ancient Olympia on the Peloponnese.