First time I tried to get to this beach I got lost. The GPS took me and my friends in front of a huge private villa above Petani beach. But we didn't give up and we got to this oasis where we were pleasantly surprised by the sights.
Agia Eleni (38.260250, 20.367158) is a small hidden beach, south from Petani, on the western coast of Paliki, Kefalonia. It is located 14km by car from Lixouri (25 - 30min). On the way you will pass by small villages such as Monopolata and Damoulianata.
We found out about Agia Eleni from locals. Usually there are just a few people on the beach, but during the weekends of July and especially August there will be a bit more.
The road down is very narrow and twisty, so definitely not for nervous drivers, but it’s fine for most if you take your time. Just before the last curve towards the left side there is a small place where you can park for a few minutes. Walk 15 meters to the right side and get ready for a different, exciting view over Petani.
Once you get to Agia Eleni beach limestone and fine shingle await you. The water gets deep quite quickly to a depth of 6-10m across width of bay. The big rocks around the bay are the tips of large stacks that go straight down to the bottom. This is the best beach for snorkeling in Kefalonia.
Several of the rock formations have mini caves/tunnels you can swim under and through, leading to the other side or into caves in the center of the rocks, open to sunlight from above. Perfect for providing even inexperienced snorkelers with an adventurous experience which is completely safe.
If you're feeling adventurous, like me, you can climb the rocks on the left side of the beach or swim. A whole new beach is hidden on that side, surrounded by huge rock drops. The views are quite spectacular.
Be sure to bring with you an umbrella and refreshments as this is a wild beach quite far from any restaurant or kioski. It is a pebble beach so special shoes might be requiered.
After we spent all day sunbathing and swimming it is time for a well deserved dinner. Another great tip we got from the locals is about Ladokolla stin Plagia restaurant. It is located in the village of Damoulianata, on our way back from Agia Eleni.
The chairs are colorful and with different messages painted on them. The waiters are super friendly and the food...the food was quite fantastic. It was the first time in Greece when I've tasted such great and fresh dishes.
My favorites are grilled cheese with home marmalade (I was not sure what to think about it but I was so glad I ordered it), baked pork meat on the stick with beer and honey and pieces of chicken with a sweat mustard dip and rice with vegetables. The quality/price ratio is great and you will not regret it.
These being said I totally recommend you to have this one day trip. It is so worthy. You can see also the hidden beach on the left side of Agia Eleni below.
Otherwise you can choose Agia Eleni's bigger sister, PETANI BEACH.
Off to discover another corner of paradise on Kefalonia? KATO LAGADI will swipe you off your feet.
'till next time, take care!
Beldi
Niciun comentariu:
Trimiteți un comentariu