The scenic 80-minute drive here from Kefalonia airport is worth a trip alone, with hairpin bends, vertigo-inducing vistas of steep cliffs and blindingly beautiful turquoise coves far, far below. We pass sleepy villages with dusty lanes, picturesque churches and sunbathing cats, and slalom around utterly unfazed goats resting in the middle of the mountain pass. By the time we reach our destination, a contemporary home just outside of the idyllic fishing village of Fiskardo, we are already in full relaxation mode.
The house is split into two lodgings: a large villa for eight above and a spacious, adults-only apartment for two on the ground floor; larger family parties can book both together in the summer months. There's a contemporary Scandinavian feel, with multiple waterfront terraces affording wonderful views across the bay towards Ithaca. Colour schemes throughout are calming greys and whites, so as not distract from the blissful scenery. A quick refreshing dip in crystal clear waters straight off the rocks across the street, followed by a snooze on the sun loungers on a sea-facing private terrace, and it’s time for dinner. It’s a short walk along cobbled streets to the pretty harbour with its pastel-coloured houses, little tavernas and fishing boats. After a simple, delicious feast of taramasalata and moussaka, washed down with a few glasses of fine Kefalonian robola, we head back and fall asleep to the relaxing sound of gentle waves lapping outside our bedroom window.
Highs
- Waking up to the soothing sound of the sea right outside the apartment
- Quiet waterfront location with cove access across the street (time from bed to water: 30 seconds) and private terraces for enjoying that superb sea view
- Clean, calm, uncluttered vibe and top-notch appliances
- Ideal for a “workation” - there’s an office desk in the living room of the apartment, and the WiFi works like a charm
- Short stroll to Fiskardo's pretty harbour with its fabulous tavernas and shops
Lows
- The villa is normally only available in summer (it's used by the owner at other times)
- No pool, but with the sea right outside you don't need one
- No kids allowed in the apartment
- If you hire a car (which is handy for the drive from the airport), you'll probably end up not using it much, as shops, beaches and restaurants are all within walking distance
Best time to go
Kefalonia's season runs from May to October. The villa is only available July and August. May/June and September/October are also ideal times to visit with pleasant daytime temperatures of around 25C and cool evenings, plus fewer crowds.
If you visit during the cooler months, bring slippers as the tiled floors can get a bit cold.
If you visit during the cooler months, bring slippers as the tiled floors can get a bit cold.
Our top tips
This is a villa where it's actually a pleasure to self-cater. Both villa and apartment have excellent kitchens, with big fridge, freezer, microwave, toaster, espresso machine and dishwasher; plus barbecue and dining table on the terraces for lazy alfresco dinners. Fiskardo - a walkable distance - has well stocked supermarkets (including vegan products), fresh fish stalls, and a dozen fabulous (but pricey) eateries in the picturesque harbour. There's also a small taverna just around the corner overlooking Foki beach.
Our guests' ratings...
Based on 4 independent reviews from i-escape guests
Feedback is only from guests who have booked and stayed through i-escape