It’s 20 years since Captain Corelli strummed his mandolin and turned the then-overlooked Ionian island of Kefalonia into a magnet for holidaymakers. The rural idyll and romantic stylings of the novel and film are still very much in evidence, but lately, Kefalonia has transformed into a buzzy, thriving and decidedly trendy Mediterranean destination.
On the western side of the island, tucked away a few kilometres above the capital Argostoli, lie the Kefalonia Pool Suites; an upmarket five-apartment boutique complex that serves both as a laidback family base and an achingly cool couples’ retreat. There’s a communal pool with shimmering sea views, but each apartment is completely self-contained with its own terrace shrouded by a lush garden overlooking Argostoli's breath-taking coastal vista. Unfussy luxury is the watchword here: from the attentive but ever-discreet concierge service to the simple but tastefully designed suites. Creams and soft greys abound, metal staircases and sleek modern fittings add a contemporary touch, while local wood and wickerwork paired with understated natural fabrics create warmth and charm. The minimalism is intentional, working with the jaw-dropping landscapes to instantly soothe your senses. Even after our short and sweet stay at these seaview suites, we left feeling notably refreshed. Imagine what a week could do...
Highs
- The views. Each apartment overlooks the sea and the city below, so whether it’s an al fresco breakfast, a leisurely afternoon swim, or a post-sightseeing sundowner, the scene is always set and Instagram-ready
- A great location means you’re far enough from the buzz of the capital to relax and recuperate, yet only a 10-minute drive to the centre of the action and a choice of lovely, sandy beaches
- Great value, especially outside of the summer holidays
- There's a helpful concierge you meet in person when you arrive who can recommend and book activities and restaurants, contactable via mobile phone at all times
- Each apartment has two bedrooms, so they're great for friends and families with teens travelling together
Lows
- The shared pool isn’t huge and, since each suite can sleep up to four people, it could be busy at high occupancy (though we never shared it during our fully booked stay)
- No onsite restaurant or bar, and it's a (short) drive to the nearest in the city, but each apartment has its own kitchen
- There are no TVs or radios, but with views like this we didn't miss it
- No kids under 12
- No credit cards accepted, payment by bank transfer only
Best time to go
Typical European summer rules apply – the winter months from October to May are generally pleasant weatherwise. Temperatures start to creep up after that so July and August can be cripplingly hot. But even in June and September temperatures often hit the high 30s. The Kefalonia Pool Suites are closed November through March.
Our top tips
Be sure to visit Argostoli harbour one morning. The fishermen dropping off their morning catch have a loyal following of Loggerhead turtles, who come right up to the boats to eat any discarded fish thrown overboard.
Our guests' ratings...
Based on 3 independent reviews from i-escape guests
Feedback is only from guests who have booked and stayed through i-escape