Kefalonia

Myrtos Beach, Kefalonia

Apart from Corfu there are 6 other lesser-known islands in the Ionian group: Kefalonia, Zakynthos, Lefkas, Ithaca, Kythira, Paxos, together with a number of small islets. The largest is Kefalonia (sometimes spelled Cephalonia or Kefalonia) - 50 km (30 miles long) and 735 sq km (284 sq miles) in area. The landscape of Kefalonia is composed of jagged limestone hills with clumps of cypress and olive trees on the slopes. The highest point is Mount Ainos (Enos) with an altitude of 1628 metres (5941 ft) which is covered with a native spruce. Much of the historic architecture of the island was destroyed in 1953.

The island's history is as involved and bloody as any of the others in the group. Lord Byron stayed here for four months during the Greek war of independence. More recently, the film of Captain Corelli's Mandolin focused on the island's occupation by the Italians and then the Germans during World War II.

Frommers Greek Islands describes Kefalonia as still being 'relatively inconspicuous and unspoiled' and having a lot to offer, including 'picturesque traditional villages, steep rocks plunging into the sea, fine beaches, and excellent local wine.' Myrtos beach is iconic and often featured as one of the best beaches in Greece.

• The Greek Islands
• The Ionian Islands
• Corfu
• Kefalonia
• Zakynthos (Zante)
• Crete
• Cretan History
• Cyclades
• Paros
• Rhodes