It was the much-loved Captain Corelli's Mandolin which brought Kefalonia, the largest of the Ionian Islands, to the attention of many travellers. Charming and understated, this verdant island remains appealingly unspoilt and tranquil, with pristine sands, warm azure waters and pretty villages framed by olive groves and cypress trees. In our list below, we have highlighted the best places to stay in Kefalonia for couples, families and groups seeking to soak up the sunshine or hide away in the hills.
Argostoli, Kefalonia’s capital, is a wonderful starting point for getting a sense of the island’s culture and history so a stay at Kefalonia Grand fits the bill. This luxury seafront hotel tops our list of favourites as it offers chic, contemporary rooms, wonderful views and a lovely Greek restaurant, all just steps from the local highlights. Our other favourite is Eliamos Villas Hotel & Spa in Spartia, one of the pretty villages of the Livatho Peninsula. A serene spa, infinity pool, and farm-to-table dining await, while beach-goers will adore marvellous Myrtos Beach, just a short boat trip away, with crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkelling.
Whether you're looking for a rural retreat, a romantic hideaway or five-star luxury, this beautiful Ionian Island comes up trumps. Read our guide to The best hotels in the Ionian Islands for a look at different areas, or scroll down the page for our full selection of recommended hotels in Kefalonia.
Heidi's top tip: Agrostoli harbour is a great place for spotting loggerhead turtles. Make sure you get there early, when the turtles swim around the boats hoping for scraps from the fishermen.
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Kefalonia
Luxurious, seafront hotel on the Greek isle of Kefalonia. Focused on providing modern comforts, the rooms are chic and minimalist. Visit the Korgialenio Historic and Folklore Museum or hire a bike and cycle along Kelafonia's stunning coastline. Great for a romantic break.
Kefalonia
This boutique hideaway is nestled on the beautiful Greek island of Kefalonia. Each of the hotel's stylish, monochrome suites has a private verandah where you can soak in views of the surrounding hills. Start the day with breakfast by the pool before a walk to the beach or a country bike ride.
Kefalonia
A very well positioned and good value hotel on the coastline with fantastic sea views. A collection of suites with kitchenettes and private balconies, all in muted tones. Lovely pool and relaxation area, restaurant and bar. Adults only.
Kefalonia (Greece)
Perched high up above the northern fishing village of Fiskardo is this family-run boutique hotel offering peace, charm and authenticity.
Kefalonia
This family-friendly resort is nestled among cypress trees on the island of Kefalonia. Suites harmonise with the natural landscape through a palette of earthy hues and overlook the pretty gardens and patio. A freshwater, Olympic-sized pool and adjacent kid's pool complete this stylish hideaway.
Kefalonia (Kefalonia)
A sleek hotel on Kefalonia's shores surrounded by lush landscape. Elegant interiors highlight modern Grecian style with vibrant hues and natural textures. Guests can enjoy true indulgence with private pools in every suite, a spa, gourmet dining, and starlit poolside lounging. A slice of paradise.
Kefalonia
Supreme luxury on the coastline. Fantastic rooms and family apartments (sleep up to 5) have all the mod cons, four poster beds, balconies and private pools (some). Excellent spa, restaurant, and boats to charter. Great for an indulgent holiday.
Kefalonia (Kefalonia)
A romantic haven perched on a hill overlooking a gorgeous sandy beach. Simply designed rooms invoke an element of calm with neutral tones, private terraces and exposed stonework. A glorious spa to aid complete relaxation. Numerous activities on offer or simply unwind with a book by the pool.
Kefalonia (Ionian Islands)
An intimate Relais & Châteaux retreat on Kefalonia's rugged south coast, Eliámos pairs contemporary villa living with understated Ionian luxury, panoramic sea views and deeply rooted local experiences. A serene spa, infinity pool, and farm-to-table dining, it's a slice of Greek island perfection
