Wow. We have never felt more welcome at a rental property than at this beautiful apartment in the village of Spartia in southern Kefalonia. Katerina was super helpful, arranging car hire for us. She also picked us up from the airport and had very kindly prepared some food since we had a late arrival. Nothing was too much trouble, and we felt more like family guests than like holiday renters.
When we first arrived, we were struck by how beautiful it was. The large garden setting is stunning, with fruit trees and endless plants, herbs, pots etc. It is clear how much love is poured into the garden.
The apartment itself was exceptionally clean and nicely decorated in a fresh way (love the bathroom tiles!). Beds were comfortable, the shower is nice and strong and the covered outdoor seating area was an absolute godsend for eating meals and getting respite from the sun. Beautiful vines frame the whole area, and there is a handy laundry shed.
The view from both bedrooms is beautiful. Out to the back, you are treated to orange, lemon, grapefruit, fig, pomegranate, almond, plum and palm trees, and to the front are eucalyptus and a view to the ocean. It's a 15-minute walk (or a short drive) down to the beach and a 12-minute walk uphill to the Square, which has a couple of shops, an excellent restaurant and a really nice cafe-bar.
We loved swimming in the sea daily, snorkelling, driving around exploring, a boat trip, kayaking, walking and of course eating delicious Greek food at several tavernas and cafes. And turtles in the wild – what an absolute joy!
Fiskardo was picture postcard-beautiful but very upmarket-touristy and yachty, while the vibe in Spartia and around the south coast seemed more authentic Kefalonia. We also enjoyed Agia Efimia and Mount Aenis reserve – lovely place for a walk and picnic.
We had an utterly brilliant and memorable holiday and loved helping ourselves to a few oranges and lemons straight off the tree – honestly, a simple highlight for me! Other highlights: a boat trip with Ionian Discoveries, excellent meals out, some of the beaches and just chilling at the apartment.
Eternal thanks to lovely Katerina, Angela, Gerassimo and the team and adorable Bobby the rescued dog. They also run a stunning gift shop that sells gorgeous artisan products.
Katerina and family offer a little piece of paradise from which to explore this beautiful, friendly island. A special stay that we cherish always – thank you so much!