Top 10 great hotels in Kefalonia: the perfect vacation in the middle of the Ionian Sea

Kefalonia, the largest island in the Ionian Sea, reflects the idyllic picture of Greece that comes to mind when you think of vacationing in one of the most amazing countries in the world. Bucolic landscapes, magnificent beaches, picturesque villages, a large number of cultural and historical attractions, hiking and cycling routes and other leisure options – all this attracts the attention of travelers every year, giving new impressions and experiences that allow you to fully appreciate the legendary Greek hospitality.

Kefalonia is perfect for both family and romantic vacations and even solo vacations. Note: if you want to follow in the footsteps of Nicolas Cage or Captain Corelli, go to Sami because it was there that all parts of the favorite 2001 movie were filmed.

The following selection contains the best hotels in Kefalonia so that you can plan the perfect Greek trip. The most difficult step will be choosing a place to stay because each of them is worthy of attention.

Eliamos Villas Hotel & Spa Kefalonia

This amazing complex, consisting of 12 luxury villas overlooking the endless expanse of the Ionian Sea, is located away from the lively, bustling streets of Argostoli and the popular resort towns in the north of the island.

The interiors, carefully designed by Maike Gruna Interiors, combine boho chic and traditional Greek style with Bali-inspired wicker furniture, high ceilings with exposed beams, and snow-white walls. Each of the villas includes a private saltwater pool or hot tub, perfect for lazy days filled with intense sunshine.

There is not much in the way of entertainment and amenities within easy reach of Eliamos Villas Hotel & Spa Kefalonia, but it is the sense of tranquility and privacy that travelers come here for. If you want to explore the island, you can use the convenient electric bikes or ask the staff for help organizing taxis or excursions. However, you can easily spend all your time in the villa, by the infinity pool, which offers beautiful views or enjoy Mediterranean specialties in the restaurant.

The natural resort of Emelisse

Emelisse Nature Resort is one of the coolest hotels in Kefalonia, Greece. With its white cotonteau walls, adults-only pool with panoramic views of the Ionian Sea and Emblisi Bay, and an extraordinary lobby library with floor-to-ceiling shelves, this property is perfect for travelers looking for a relaxing, carefree vacation.

The hotel offers a large number of leisure options. For example, you can use the hotel's buggy to quickly take you to the beach, or relax on one of the striped loungers on the rocky shore (the friendly staff will even deliver wine and snacks from the restaurant if you wish). In addition, the Emelisse Nature Resort has an excellent spa offering relaxing treatments. In the evening, we recommend booking a table at the enchanting Vetsalo to enjoy delicious food and quality drinks with ocean views.

Canale Hotel

Canale Hotel has a more urban style than many boutique hotels on the island. The interior design uses an abundance of gold and black shades, and harmoniously combines leather and stone, but the mood here is sophisticated and "adult".

The hotel offers rooms in different configurations, and the top-category apartments have a separate jacuzzi. There is a small swimming pool where you can take a refreshing dip after exploring the island, and a stylish lounge bar serving modern Mediterranean cuisine and a variety of cocktails. The friendly staff is always ready to help with organizing sailing charters or wine tasting and booking cabanas on the local beach, among many other leisure options.

F Zeen

The list of the top 10 best hotels in Kefalonia deservedly includes F Zeen, hidden in the shadow of Mount Ainos, covered with pine forest, near the protected sandy bay of Lourdes. The golden buildings of the complex are scattered along winding paths; in addition, each estate offers unobstructed views of the Ionian Sea. F Zeen offers a large number of activities to choose from, which are announced at the beginning of the week on a giant board at the reception. Among the popular leisure options are the following:

• various excursions;
• personal training;
• yoga classes;
• snorkeling;
• meditation;
• mountain hiking;
• paddleboarding and much more.

There are three swimming pools and a beautiful spa just steps away, not to mention a fantastic beach with private sun loungers and views of Zakynthos in the distance.

Sea Lily

Unlike such Greek islands as Kos or Mykonos, Kefalonia is not famous for its nightlife, but that doesn't mean that travelers won't find something interesting here. Sea Lily Villa is designed for six people, but thanks to its open plan, you can host friends and throw your own parties. Stock the freezer with ice, buy groceries at one of Metaxata's minimarkets, and invite your guests over. While staying at Sea Lily, you can grill fresh fish after your favorite cocktails by the pool. The next morning after the party, a day of relaxation and recovery on one of the sun loungers with a magnificent view of the blue horizon is a good choice. In addition, Avitos Beach is a ten-minute drive away.

Kefalonia Grand Hotel

Families, couples and leisure travelers who appreciate every minute of their vacation will be happy to stay at this popular Kefalonia vacation destination, which is located just 15 minutes from the airport. Guests of the Kefalonia Grand Hotel most enjoy yachting on the picturesque Argostoli Harbor, which is located just a short distance away.

The elegant, stylish interior design is dominated by beach white and blue colors, rattan accents and laconic textured rope details. For those who value views and plenty of space, Superior Double rooms are ideal, offering endless sea views. Such apartments include a cozy furnished balcony. Another popular option for accommodation is the Master Suite, which is best suited for a romantic vacation and privacy.

We advise you not to miss the brunch that Kefalonia Grand Hotel is known for. Brunch includes pancakes, homemade bread and traditional Greek-style iced coffee Fredo.

Regina Dell Aqua

If you are planning to organize a perfect beach vacation, you should choose Regina dell Acqua. Offering panoramic views of the Ionian Sea, the hotel offers a large number of facilities for guests, including

• an open-air restaurant;
• bar;
• a large swimming pool with sun loungers and umbrellas;
• massage services, etc.

Accommodation options include rooms in various configurations, but all of them include a terrace or balcony (keep in mind that you will have to pay more for a room with a sea view). If you are traveling with a family or just want to get the most space and benefits, you should book a luxurious presidential suite with a separate living room, private pool, jacuzzi, and sauna. The room also has interconnecting bedrooms, making it a great choice for families with children.

Villa Gaia

This beautiful Kefalonia hotel is located in a shallow valley near the small village of Vlahata, so if you listen closely, you can even hear the hypnotic ringing of goat bells. While staying at Villa Gaia, you have the opportunity to fully experience the characteristic Greek hospitality, to which the owners pay special attention. In particular, a bottle of good wine, bread, and fresh fruit are waiting for guests upon arrival to make their stay here special. Due to the location, be prepared for a weak network signal, but the hosts will be happy to help you find the best restaurant, book a table, call a taxi, or inform you about local offers.

Wilderness Whisperings

If you want to avoid the tourist traps of mainland Greece on an all-inclusive basis, we recommend staying at Wilderness Whisperings. The hotel, located on the east coast of the island, occupies a spacious wooden cottage filled with light. The main advantages of this place are the excellent breakfast included in the price of accommodation, as well as a good location just a two-minute drive from Ivo Beach with white sand and comfortable sun loungers. The Wilderness Whisperings has a swimming pool and a wide outdoor terrace next to it, where you can enjoy gourmet meals in the open air while taking in the beautiful views of the Mediterranean Sea and the mountainside.

White Blossoms

One of the best hotels in Kefalonia only opened its doors to guests in the summer of 2021, so you can expect state-of-the-art facilities and stylish interiors and, in addition, first-class service. White Blossoms, located in the southern part of the island, offers amazing views of the port of Pessada and the Gulf of Trapezaki. After unpacking your bags, you'll definitely want to grab a beach bag and head to Lourdes to explore the underwater life by snorkeling in the crystal clear waters. The luxury villa is also located near the interesting city of Argostoli with plenty of attractions, restaurants and cafes, and the airport is less than a 15-minute drive away.