Agia Eleni beach, Kefalonia, Greece 2020 - an oasis of tranquility

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

Petani beach, Kefalonia - The Caribbean blue in Greece

Yes, I've said it! The Caribbean blue has nothing on Petani. Probably the best beach in Paliki, the western peninsula of the island, Petani delights the visitors with its crystal clear water and wide beach.

My 7th summer on Kefalonia couldn't start otherwise than with a visit on Petani beach. Located 13km away from Lixouri, or 23 minutes by car, Petani is the gem you didn't know you need to discover.

The first sight takes your breath away as the whole bay, including a variety of green hills, other small beaches and the infinite Ionian blue unveil before your eyes. Stop on the top for a few pictures that will make all your friends jealous.

The road that leads to the beach is by itself an adventure. The steep curves will test your driving skills but believe me when I say it will all be worthy.

Once you get close to the beach you can either go left for the main attraction or right for a smaller, more private bay. If you decide to go to the right side, here's what you'll find.

Wonderful little white pebbles intertwine with the turquoise water. Be sure to bring adequate shoes, an umbrella and refreshments.

Feeling adventurous, like myself? Climb the big rock at the beginning of the beach for a 360 degrees view of this Ionian beauty.

Otherwise if you chose to go to the main beach there are a few restaurants and bars to choose from. Umbrellas and sun loungers are available to rent. There is a shower on the beach as well. During the busiest months, July, August, it will be a bit of a struggle to find a parking place but you can always leave the car further to the right and then have a small stroll on the beach.

What I like as well on Petani is that you can find both stripes of sandy and pebble beach. Also, except sunbathing, swimming or snorkeling you can go for a longer walk further to the left side until you reach a row of impressive rocks.

This beach has no water sports and load music is never played here so it is ideal for relaxation.

In the end Petani is one of my favorite spots to watch an incredible sunset by the seaside. You can either choose to do that while being down on the beach or you have the option to go up for a panorama view. Hotel Petani Bay View is my all time favorite place to unwind, have a cocktail by the infinity pool and get lost in the mirage of the sunset.

What do you think? Did I convinced you to visit Petani? For more details leave a comment below!

'Till next time, stay safe!

Beldi

Wanna discover more stunning places on Kefalonia?!

Look no further:

Kato Lagadi, Kefalonia, Greece - paradise beach 2020

Kefalonia 2020 - a must see guide to an unforgettable holiday

The pictures were taken with a Samsung Galaxy S20+

Kato Lagadi, Kefalonia, Greece - paradise beach 2020

It was my 7th summer on Kefalonia island. No matter how many times I visit the same place I always feel like I am there for the first time. I love to discover new spots, little beaches, off the beaten track.

This year I've had the chance to explore a small corner of paradise, close to Poros. Kato Lagadi beach is accesible by foot or by boat. It is located 45 km east of Argostoli, the capital of Kefalonia, 6 km from Poros, on the coastal road towards Skala.

It is not a popular place but its excellent waters and fascinating surrounding make Kato Lagadi an idyllic area for relaxation and snorkeling. Kato Lagadi is also known as Kako Lagadi. It is a tiny sandy cove that lies between two steep rocks with some vegetation on top. Due to its small space there are no facilities.

The path to go down is a bit difficult so I would recommend wearing sneakers even though I went down wearing flip flops. The first time I wanted to visit this place I couldn't find the path. So the 2nd time I've searched online and I've found an YouTube video that shows you exactly which way to go to reach the splendid beach. I will leave you the link below.

   

As you can see it takes only 5 minutes to get down to Kato Lagadi. Jump over the parapet, the place is marked with a red arrow, and follow the path. It's not an easy way for kids or elderly people but with a little help it's ok. GPS: 38.125730, 20.801087 

It is truly an amazing spot for relaxation and total privacy, in certain hours though. During July and August more locals come here. 

The beach consist of calm blue waters and a pebbled shore. On the left side of the beach there are some rocks that provide natural shade. The arches and caves are absolutely marvelous for a photo shooting, especially in contrast with the turquoise water. I'll leave you some pics below. 

Be sure to bring with you food and refreshments. For the snorkeling lovers Kato Lagadi is an ideal spot.

Enjoy and until next time, take care.

Be sure to follow me discovering the wonderful island of Kefalonia:

The marvelous beaches of Erissos, northern Kefalonia

Best places to watch the sunset on Kefalonia

10 Reasons why to visit Kefalonia

Sunsets on Kefalonia

I will always remember the first sunset I've seen on the seaside. It was 2007, on Peloponnese. It was my first time travelling and working abroad. I will always carry those feelings of freedom, enthusiasm and wonder that overwhelmed my body watching the sun sinking in the Ionian Sea while I was swimming for the first time in the greek waters.

Skafidia Beach, Peloponnese

Since then I've spent 9 summers in Greece and I'm quietly but still impatiently waiting for the 10th.

On Kefalonia I first arrived at the beginning of June 2013 and since then it became my home away from home. An amazing island that still preserves its wilderness and the greek traditions at high ranks compared to its neighbours, Lefkada and Zakynthos.

Today I'm going to share with you some of the most idyllic places from where you can enjoy the beauty of the Ionian Sea at sunset.

For more reasons to visit Kefalonia check THIS POST!!!


1. Kounopetra

Of course the best sunsets you can see are on the western coast of the island and I'm starting with the southern point which is entitled Kounopetra. Its name comes from the "moving stone" a geological phenomenon that used to take place there for years without having any scientifical explanation. This area is the place where I am living and working. It is a privilege to walk to dinner while the sun is setting slowly between the pine branches. A short stroll takes me to the place I took these photos.

2. Vrahinari Beach

Almost 2 km away from Kounopetra there is Vrahinari, a quiet and sandy beach. I recommend you to have dinner in the restaurant close to the beach - fresh sea food and tasteful wine while your eyes feast with a stunning view over the sun setting slowly in the Ionian Sea.

3. Petani Beach

Petani is still considered a hidden treasure. The road is pretty challenging, riding up in the mountains, then going down one curve at a time, but it is more than worthed. Either you're on the beach or up for the panorama view in one of the hotels, the picture is as close to perfection as it gets. The pictures below talk for themselves.

4. Myrtos Beach

The iconic beach amazes its vistors with turquoise waters and white pebbles. Everyone who has been there has taken at least one picture with the amazing view from the hills beside. For those who love a challenge, go and try paragliding over Myrtos. It is as good as it gets. 

5. Assos 

Leaving Myrtos you'll get to the idyllic village of Assos, a beautiful bay with colourful houses and a spectacular view provided from the citadel on top of the hill next to it. I recommend you to stop at the upper point before you drive down to Assos. There you will risk falling in love irremediably with the sight of the blue sea and the golden sun going to sleep.

6. Makri Gialos Beach/Costa Costa

Moving towards the eastern part of the island there are couple of places where the sun can be seen setting behind the hills, one of this ones is Makri Gialos Beach. Long, wide and sandy, the beach is very busy in the summer time providing sunbeds, watersports, volley courts, bars and restaurants.

7. Aenos Mt.

Drive up Mount Ainos and you will be surprised how cool is to leave the heat behind and to enjoy fresh air, a walk in the forrest and the brilliant view that stretches towards Zakynthos, mainland Greece, Lefkada and Ithaka. Spend a little longer time for a sunset as no other. That's the moment and the place to feel as a God on Olympus.

8. Argostoli

The capital and the main city of Kefalonia tends to get crowded in July, August with its many coffee shops and tavernas, clubs and souvenir shops. Feeling a bit suffocated? No problem! Jump on the ferry and travel to Lixouri village. Enjoy the 30 minutes ride and discover a quiet yet alive village. On the way back enjoy a moment of beauty as the sun sets down kissing the shadows.

These were my favourite places to watch the sunset on Kefalonia. What do you think about them? Are you interested in visiting Kefalonia or Greece in the near future? Let me know in the comments.

Beldi

P.S.: Discover more about Kefalonia and its hidden treasures HERE (Assos) or HERE(Skala).