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Kefalonia lies in the sparkling blue Ionian Sea to the West of mainland Greece.
It is the largest of the Ionian islands, yet has managed to avoid the tourist commercialisation of neighbouring Corfu or nearby Zakynthos.
The mystical island of Ithica lies off the North-East coast of Kefalonia
Kefalonia is a mixture of unspoilt beaches. majestic mountains, fertile green valleys, forests and olive groves. Mount Ainos, in the south of the island, is higher than Britain's Ben Nevis, and affords wonderful views of the island's many villages and beaches. The whole island abounds in wild flora and fauna--early Spring sees Kefalonia ablaze with the colours of millions of wild flowers.
The island has its own micro-climate -- From April to late-November it is mainly blue skies and sunshine with temperatures steadily rising to 35 degrees and more . Temperatures decline over Winter, though snow is rare, and frost rarer still.
The 'rainy season' is, statistically, January and February.
Kefalonian people are wonderfully sociable and can be surprisingly generous. They are very family-orientated and love all children.
Most of the younger generation can speak English and it is difficult to imagine a situation where language would be a true barrier.
Kefalonia has two main towns:-
Argostoli, the capital, has a full range of shops and services including the island's main hospital.
Lixouri, on the Paliki Peninsula, has fewer shops but still offers all one would expect from a small town. There is also a small hospital with 'Emergency-and-Accident' facilities.
There is a frequent ferry service (20 minutes crossing) between Argostoli and Lixouri.
For those wishing to visit further afield there are daily ferry services to the mainland and other islands, and regular flights to Athens and Zakynthos . Direct flights to the U.K. are available during the tourist season, as are ferry services to Italy.
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