Kefalonia a Fairytale Island

Kefalonia Mount Ainos

Location: Ainos

Mount Ainos in Kefalonia: Ainos is the highest mountain not only in Kefalonia but also of all islands located in the Ionian Sea. It is 1628 meters tall and bears great ecological significance in terms of local biodiversity.

The National Park of Ainos was established in 1962 with the purpose of protecting the flora and fauna in the area and is now part of the network “Natura 2000”. Among many wildlife species, Mount Ainos is the natural habitat of foxes, birds, ferrets and wild horses. You will also encounter small lilac flowers (Viola Cephalonica) and one of the rarest types of fir trees in Europe, Abies Cephalonica. The trunks of these fir trees are particularly dark in color and so dense that Ainos was given the name Black Mountain (Monte Nero).

There are many forest paths you can take and the route is a must for all nature lovers who visit Kefalonia and enjoy hiking. The dense vegetation is particularly refreshing during warm summer days and the high points of the mountain offer a truly unforgettable, panoramic view of the island. The ruins of an ancient temple and a few monasteries are also located on Mount Ainos, including Agios Eleftherios and Zoodochos Pigi. Near the latter, you will find a natural fountain, too.

Kefalonia a Fairytale Island

Kefalonia is always ready to welcome visitors with its turquoise beaches, lush mountains, mysterious caves, countless beautiful churches, and best discovered with a rent a car Kefalonia experience, and particularly friendly residents.
Starting with the natural landscape, where the island has to offer many attractions with twists and surprises, it is definitely worth visiting the Melissani cave. This mythical lake cave is located outside Sami and is one of the most impressive spots on the island. It got its name from the nymph Melissanthe, as important archaeological finds for the worship of the nymph were discovered there! The waters inside the cave reach up to 30 meters deep, while after the collapse of a part of the roof, a round opening has been created, where in the midday hours you can admire the unique sunlight illuminating the crystal-clear waters creating a magical atmosphere!
The natural attractions of the island continue to surprise visitors with the story of the caves not ending here! Another cave is that of Drogarati, in Chaliotata, in close proximity to Sami. One can admire the section of the roof, which has collapsed from an earthquake, with its impressive stalactites, as well as the section of the main cave which is open to the public all year round and is a truly visual spectacle for visitors!
One of the most famous attractions of Kefalonia but also a unique geological phenomenon, are the Catacombs, which are located just outside the capital of the island, Argostoli. Specifically, the sea water flows into the cracks near the beach, making a long journey, to end up in the lake of Melissani, on the other side of the island!
In the area of Livathos, on a hill above the village of Peratata, is the castle of Agios Georgios, of great historical value, which is worth visiting to enjoy the breathtaking view! The fortress was probably built by Byzantine emperors in the 12th century AD, while later the Venetian rulers of the island took care to reinforce it with new fortifications. Inside the old fortress, churches, remains of half a bridge, loopholes and watchtowers are preserved! From the top, a large part of the island can be seen, with a particularly special view of Argostoli.
The island of Kefalonia wins over visitors with its unique nature and culture, as well as the mysterious atmosphere that exists on the island! It is intended for visitors with a desire to explore and get lost in the magic of nature, myth, and history!

Explore every magical corner of Kefalonia with your own rented car and make the most of your island adventure!