Zeus Temple

More on Lourdas, Kefalonia

Good things really do come in small packages – Lourdas is living proof. This pretty coastal resort has made a name for itself over the last few years, drawing visitors with its three-mile-long beach and beautiful countryside. But despite its rapid rise in popularity, Lourdas has held tight to its traditional Greek charm. Daily life revolves almost exclusively around the village square. Here, you can while away the hours in a taverna while tucking into fresh-from-the-net fish and vegetables not long from the soil. A short downhill walk will take you from the village to the beach, which prides itself on being one of the best in Kefalonia. The pebbly sands are backed by wispy cypress trees, and turquoise waters provide a platform for water sports like paragliding and jet-skiing. Sunset, though, is when this place really comes into its own. The views are epiphany-inducing. Have your camera ready as Mount Ainos is lit up by the fiery orange sky. And once the sun has gone down, head to one of the popular beachfront restaurants for a laid-back night of food, music and cocktails. If you want to venture a bit further afield, Argostoli is only a 15-minute drive away. Kefaloina’s capital city is home to a flurry of shops, bars and cafes, as well as an excellent daily fresh fruit and veg market.