The best road cycling routes in Kefallonia

Brilliant and testing climb. A must do! In the summer would advise going early (as the sun rises) as you’ll be sheltered from the sun by the peaks as you climb. Take plenty of water, there are no places to top up on the climb. Most of the road surfaces are very good, just watch out for a couple of rougher sections and some gravel at the edge of the road.

The harbor of Fiskardo (Φισκάρδο) is known for its pastel-colored houses in Venetian style, which largely survived the devastating earthquake of 1953 unharmed. Today, the harbor is a popular destination for yachts and a center for upscale gastronomy and leisure activities. The promenade offers a variety of restaurants and cafes with a direct view of the water and the neighboring island of Ithaca.

(2) In the center of the bridge stands a striking marble obelisk, erected in honor of its builders. It separates the Koutavos lagoon from the rest of the harbor basin. Today it is a purely pedestrian bridge, after being extensively renovated between 2011 and 2013. The bridge is a popular place for walks, especially in the evening when it is illuminated. With a bit of luck, you can even observe sea turtles (Loggerhead sea turtle) in the water from there.

The De Bosset Bridge (also called Drapano Bridge) is a striking historical landmark. It is considered the world's longest stone sea bridge. The bridge is approximately 690 meters long (exactly 689.9 meters according to the Guinness Book of Records). It was originally built in 1813 as a wooden structure by the Swiss engineer Charles-Philippe De Bosset, who was the island's governor at the time. Later, it was rebuilt in stone. Originally, it was intended to connect Argostoli with the mainland, facilitating access to the city, as one previously had to go around the Koutavos Lagoon.

From Argostoli, you look directly east across the bay at the opposite district of Drapano (Δράπανο). You can see the wooded shore of Drapano, which is significantly less densely built-up than the city center of Argostoli. De Bosset Bridge: To the right in the field of vision (south), the historic stone bridge stretches across the bay of Argostoli, connecting the city with Drapano. Drapano Hill: In the background, the island's hilly landscape rises, forming a natural backdrop from this position. Argostoli Yacht Marina: Immediately in front of you (on your own shore), you see the jetties of the marina, where yachts and sailboats often anchor.

Poros is the island's gateway for ferries from the mainland and a relaxed holiday resort in the southeast. Poros is home to one of Kefalonia's main ports with regular Levante Ferries connections to Kyllini on the mainland. The town stretches across two bays. The northern bay houses the actual centre with its promenade, while the ferry port is located in the southern bay. Compared to more well-known places like Fiskardo or Assos, Poros is more authentic and less marked by mass tourism.

The Saint Theodore Lighthouse (Greek: Agioi Theodoroi), also known as Fanari, is one of Kefalonia's most famous landmarks. It stands on an artificial peninsula about 3 km from the island's capital, Argostoli. The original lighthouse was built in 1828/29. The structure is distinguished by its striking circular design in the Doric style. The 8-meter-high tower is framed by 20 white columns. The devastating earthquake of 1953 completely destroyed the original. In 1964, the lighthouse was faithfully reconstructed by architect Takis Pavlatos, following the original plans. Since 1995, it has been a protected monument of modern Greek history. The location offers sweeping views across the sea to the Paliki peninsula and the island of Vardianoi.

Cycling this stretch of road includes great tarmac and even better views. Do it in the morning when it's cooler, but watch out for the wind.