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Discover Kefalonia: Beaches, Luxury Resorts and Hidden Gems in Greece

Kefalonia almost seems too good to be true.

Quiet in summer with less foot traffic than the better-known Ionian Islands, you’ll be glad to know it’s just as beautiful as its brethren. And with direct El Al flights departing from Tel Aviv, this Greek paradise – known for its fairytale beaches, caves to explore and myriad dining and accommodation options – could be at the top of your travel checklist this year.

Not going from Tel Aviv? Don’t worry, there are several flights from Athens.

Where to stay

Land at Kefalonia International Airport (EFL) and drive for an hour and 20 minutes to Fiskardo, which in my opinion is the best part of the island. This fishing village is close to many of the most magnificent beaches that will make your holiday unforgettable.

For luxury with water views at every turn, book a room at the Emelisse Nature Resort. You’ll feel time slow down here among the wild cedar and cypress trees, bougainvillea-covered stone buildings, and the inviting infinity pool you can dive into immediately after check-in.

Emelisse offers a holiday concept focused on relaxation and rejuvenation that simply invites guests to immerse themselves in tranquility. Designed for privacy and tranquility, this family-friendly resort reflects the pristine beauty of its natural surroundings.

Take advantage of the spa, yoga, fitness room, tennis and squash court, cycling and hiking trails, films under the stars in the open-air cinema and the on-site Votsalo restaurant, which serves a wide selection of Mediterranean dishes paired with local wines.

Order one of the handful of pastas centered on local cheeses (like the blue cheese risotto or carbonara) or fresh ceviche and tuna tartare, and wash it all down with a glass of local orange wine – specifically the island-sourced Sarris Estate Winery orange.

When you’re ready to cool off, take a dip in the shared pool outside your room, or head to the main infinity pool on the property, which is set above a beautiful private slate beach with direct access to the sea. Emelisse has added a charming touch here by placing sun loungers here and there, so you can spend a whole day diving in and out of the Mediterranean, ending it all with a beautiful sunset.

A stay in one of the property’s 64 minimalist rooms in the summer starts at €430/night for a couple, including breakfast. Their larger rooms, perfect for a family, sleep six and start at €861/night with a two-night minimum during high season. Prices drop for the Jewish holidays, dropping to as much as €230/night for two people in late September. The serene, teak-furnished rooms, most of which have balconies with sea views, are more than worth it. And did I mention there’s room service after hours?

What must we do

Emelisse Nature Resort is located above the picturesque Emplisi Beach (just a five-minute walk from the property). You can also contact reception about booking the luxury yacht experience if you want to take things a step further with a private eight-hour tour of the sea. This all-inclusive eight-hour experience is suitable for 10 adults and costs around €2,500 including food, drinks and breathtaking views.

For more down-to-earth days on the water, nearby Foki Beach (known for its trees that reach the shoreline and provide ample shade) and Kimilia Beach (probably the most beautiful and serene beach on the island) are worth a visit. But your number one stop for sea, sand and sun should be Myrtos Beach.

Famous for its stunning beauty and often considered one of the best beaches in the world, the turquoise waters and white pebbles create a breathtaking contrast. Set between steep cliffs, the dramatic landscape makes it a favorite spot for sunbathing, swimming and photography. And don’t forget to take a photo from above as you look out over the water on your drive there.

Kaladakia Beach, Greece. (Photo: LAUREN GUMPORT)

After spending time at the beach, drive to Fiskardo and Assos Village, both are a must-see.

Fiskardo, where Emelisse offers a free shuttle service for guests, is dotted with stuccoed colored buildings, rows of boats and several restaurants and cafes. Explore the limestone buildings and head to the small museum at the top of the harbor, where you can delve into how the village looked through the years.

From the harbour itself, you can hire a boat or captain your own to explore the horseshoe bays and lagoons that are often only accessible by water. And for those who fancy a day trip to another island, take a ferry to Lefkada, which is connected to the mainland and is known for its beautiful soft sandy beaches and rich blue waters.

In between beach hopping, you’ll want to stop in magical Assos, a picturesque coastal village surrounded by crystal clear waters and lush greenery. Assos features charming Venetian architecture and a historic castle overlooking the bay. With its peaceful atmosphere, quaint tavernas and beaches, Assos offers a perfect blend of history and natural beauty that will make your time on the island worthwhile.

As the largest of the Ionian Islands, located between Lefkada and Zakynthos to the north, it was only a matter of time before we discovered this gem. Go here for dense forests, beautiful beaches with piercing blue waters and a calming atmosphere that will leave you well rested after your holiday.

https://www.emelisseresort.com/ ; Instagram: @emelisseresortofficial

Lauren Gumport is an avid traveler, travel writer, and VP of Communications at travel tech startup Faye Travel Insurance. Her travel tips have appeared in The Wall Street Journal, USA Today, BuzzFeed, and more. Follow her on Instagram @Gumport.



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