The end of summer 2020 got me to places that I enjoy when I want to combine history, shopping and relaxation while on Kefalonia, Greece.
On my first stop on this one day trip I drove with my friends all the way from Kounopetra to the Castle of Saint George, next to Argostoli.
The road around the bay from Lixouri to Argostoli is up and down, left and right, with plenty of dangerous curves and steep portions, but the extraordinary views make all of these forgettable.
The Venetian Castle of Saint George in Kefalonia is located 7 km southeast of Argostoli, above the village Peratata. This Castle was originally built in the 12th century by the Byzantines but it was mostly the Venetians who gave it its present form.
The castle is ruined today, mostly because of the earthquake that hit Kefalonia in 1956, and only a few buildings survive. This Castle was the capital of Kefalonia before Argostoli was made the new capital in 1757. Close to a small square in the castle, you will also see the ruins of the Catholic Church of Saint Nicholas.
If you don't feel like visiting the ruins and pay the entrance(3€), which, honestly are not a big deal, you can get to the view point, on the left side of the main gate and enjoy the view. I recommend you to walk around the small streets and discover hidden gems, churches, ruins, souvenir shops and wonderful newly restaurated restaurants.
On the 2nd stop we drove to the capital city of Kefalonia Is., Argostoli.
It is located next to a natural bay surrounded by mountains and verdant forests. Its beautiful Venetian buildings were destroyed along with other villages of the island during the major earthquake of 1953.
The town has been rebuilt since then, yet no efforts have been made to maintain the traditional architecture and the local color.
A stone bridge of 650 m long called the Drapano Bridge stands at the entrance of the capital. At the center is a small pyramid dedicated from Charles de Bosset, who built the bridge, to the British Empire.
"Argostoli is quite busy during the summer season offering a plethora of interesting features and activities. The beautifully paved coastal road promenade is boarded by palm trees and colorful pebbles from the sea. The road ends at the small ferry quay where boats connect to the town of Lixouri every half an hour and fishing boats moor.
The central square of the town called Plateia Valianou (Vallianos Square) is a large and pleasant square lined by many restaurants, cafes and bars. During the evenings, the square gets really crowded with locals who are really warm and friendly. In Argostoli, one can notice the traditional way of life.
The pedestrian Lithostroto Street (Cobbled Street) is the main street of the capital filled with all kinds of shops. There one can admire the beautiful church of Saint Spyridon and the interesting clock tower of Campana Square. Around its outskirts are a range of restaurants that cover all tastes and budgets. Right above the square is one of the town's nicest sights, the lush Botanical Garden.
The Lighthouse of Saint Theodore is located a couple of km from Argostoli and was built by the British Governor Napier. A small round building with white Doric columns locally known as Fanari. This beautiful lighthouse it is one of the trademarks of Kefalonia." (greeka.com)
This time around we came just to see the famous Caretta Caretta turtles in the bay and to do some fast shopping. It is past 2pm and the heat is unbearable. Soon we jump back in the car, already sweaty, and we drive towards the airport. Our plan is to cool down on the beach.
And that takes us to the 3rd stop of this journey which is Ai Helis beach.
Ai Helis is located in the southwest part of Kefalonia, 11 km from Argostoli and close to the village of Svoronata. It is a wide and long sandy beach with a nice beach bar, sunbeds, umbrellas, showers and two volley courts. The water is crystalline and shallow as you go in which makes it an ideal environment for children.
Ai Helis is surrounded on both sides by rocks and lush greenery that create a beautiful atmosphere. You can observe the rock of Zeus on the left side and the airplanes landing on your right side. During the summers there are great beach parties here, like in 2019. Unfortunately this summer all we can do is become best friends with the DJ in the bar, have some shots and ask him to play some of our favorite songs.
The day comes to an end after having a pita gyros at Ladokolla in Argostoli and a long drive around the bay all the way to Kounopetra.
'till next time, take care.
Beldi
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