Argostoli: Melissani Lake, Drogarati Cave, and Myrtos Beach

Exploring Kefalonia: A Deep Dive into the Melissani Lake, Drogarati Cave, and Myrtos Beach Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Kefalonia, chances are you’ll want to see some of its most iconic spots — and this tour offers a solid way to tick off a few in a manageable timeframe. We haven’t personally taken this exact trip, but reviews and details paint a pretty clear picture of what you can expect. It’s a nice mix of natural beauty, some history, and plenty of photo ops, all wrapped into a four-hour window.

What we really like about this experience is how it combines accessibility with quality guides who can weave stories and facts, making the visit more engaging. Plus, the stops at Melissani Lake and Myrtos Beach deliver on those classic Kefalonia postcard moments. On the downside, keep in mind that the tour can sometimes be affected by crowds, especially at Melissani, and it doesn’t include entry tickets — so you’ll want to budget for those separately.

This tour feels best suited for travelers who want a well-rounded snapshot of Kefalonia’s highlights without spending a whole day on the road. It’s perfect for cruise passengers or those with limited time on the island who still want a taste of what makes Kefalonia special.

Key Points

• Short and sweet: Four hours is enough to see some of the top sights without feeling rushed.
• Informative guides: The reviews highlight knowledgeable guides who add value with stories and local insights.
• Stunning photo opportunities: Melissani Lake and Myrtos Beach are picture-perfect spots—and you’ll get time to snap some great shots.
• Flexible stops: The itinerary is adaptable; depending on crowds and timing, the Myrtos stop may replace a visit to Melissani.
• Entry costs not included: Be prepared to pay for your tickets to Melissani Lake and Drogarati Cave separately.
• Comfortable transport: The tour uses air-conditioned buses or minivans, making the journey pleasant even in the heat.
• Crowd considerations: The popular spots can get busy, leading to wait times and possible delays.
• Suitable for most: Not wheelchair accessible, but suitable for travelers who can handle some walking and stairs (like the 118 steps at Drogarati).

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Kefalonia Highlights

Melissani Lake: The Underground Wonder

One of the most magical sights on the island, Melissani Lake features a stunning underground lake accessible by boat. We love how this spot combines natural beauty with mythology — it’s believed to be a shrine dedicated to Pan, the Greek god of nature. The boat trip through the water gives you a sense of serenity and awe, as you float beneath a light-filled opening in the cave roof.

Many reviewers rave about the vibrant colors of the water, which change depending on the time of day and the weather above. The water looks especially vivid around midday, making it a favorite time for visitors. However, crowds can gather here, so plan your visit accordingly. Some guests have mentioned that the wait times can be long during peak hours, which can slightly diminish the experience. Still, most agree that the sight is worth it.

Drogarati Cave: A Walk Through Time

This ancient cavern offers a different kind of awe — a journey back 150 million years. As you walk through the cave, you’ll see dramatic stalactites and stalagmites, some of the formations so old and elaborate that they look surreal. The cave is large enough for groups to explore comfortably, but be aware that you’ll need to climb 118 steps to access it.

Reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides who share interesting stories about the formations and the cave’s history. It’s sometimes used for events, which hints at its impressive acoustics and natural beauty. If you’re into geology or just love a cool underground adventure, this spot is a definite highlight.

Myrtos Beach: The Photo Legend

No visit to Kefalonia is complete without a look at Myrtos Beach — often called the island’s most famous shoreline. The panoramic views from the viewpoint are jaw-dropping, with white pebble beaches contrasted against deep blue waters. It’s a brief stop with about 15 minutes allocated for photos, but even that’s enough to get a sense of why this beach is so iconic.

Depending on timing and crowds, the tour might skip the beach entirely and replace it with a stop at the De Bosset Bridge, which is still worth seeing. Keep in mind that some reviews mention delays and crowd-related wait times at this stop, but the scenery more than makes up for it.

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The Practicalities

Transportation and Timing

Transport during the tour is generally comfortable, with air-conditioned buses or minivans. The itinerary includes pick-up in several locations, including cruise terminals, hotels, and popular spots in Argostoli, which adds flexibility for different travelers. The entire experience lasts around four hours, which makes it manageable even on a tight schedule.

Starting times vary, so it’s best to check availability in advance. The tour is designed to be flexible, so if Melissani Lake is especially crowded, the guide may opt to spend more time at Myrtos or other points of interest, like the De Bosset Bridge.

Cost and Value

For $51 per person, this tour offers a pretty good deal considering all the sights covered and the guide service included. However, remember that entry tickets to Melissani Lake and Drogarati Cave are not included, so you’ll need to add those costs on top. If you’re someone who values guided commentary and comfortable transport, many find this price reasonable.

Group Size and Atmosphere

Reviews suggest that the group sizes are manageable, sometimes even intimate, with some travelers noting only a few other people joining their tour. This makes the experience more personal and allows for better interaction with the guide.

Accessibility and Considerations

This tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, mainly due to the stairs at Drogarati Cave. Comfortable shoes are recommended, especially since you’ll be walking and climbing stairs. The uneven terrain and steps are worth considering if mobility is an issue.

What Travelers Are Saying

Many reviewers emphasize the expertise and friendliness of the guides, with Gerasimos often mentioned as a standout. They appreciate having someone knowledgeable to answer questions and share stories, which elevates the tour beyond just sightseeing.

Some mention delays due to crowds or multiple cruise ships on the same day, but overall, the consensus is that the sights are worth the wait. Comments like “spectacular caves” and “breathtaking lake” are common, and many travelers say they enjoyed the tour more than expected.

One guest noted that the transportation was comfortable and efficient, with the guide paying attention to ensure no one was left behind. Another shared that their group felt very lucky to have a private experience, which made the tour even more enjoyable.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for cruise passengers or those on a tight schedule but still eager to see key sights. If you enjoy guided tours that combine natural wonders with a little storytelling, you’ll probably love it.

It’s also suitable for travelers who don’t mind some walking and stairs, but less so for those with mobility challenges. While not explicitly family-focused, older kids with good shoes and stamina should enjoy the caves and lake as well.

Final Thoughts

All in all, this Kefalonia tour offers an accessible, engaging, and visually stunning way to explore some of the island’s top spots in a condensed window. The combination of natural beauty, cultural storytelling, and comfortable transport makes it a practical choice for many types of travelers.

The main drawcards — Melissani Lake and Myrtos Beach — are truly unforgettable, and the caves add a touch of adventure and history. While the ticket costs are extra and crowds can affect the experience, most guests find the tour delivers good value, especially with the friendly, knowledgeable guides.

If you’re after a manageable, well-organized way to experience Kefalonia’s highlights without sacrificing comfort or insight, this tour is definitely worth considering. Just remember to bring comfortable shoes, some patience for crowds, and a camera ready for those spectacular views.

FAQ

Are entry tickets to Melissani Lake and Drogarati Cave included?
No, they are not included in the tour price. You will need to pay for these separately.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately four hours, including stops and transportation.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not specifically designed for children, older kids who can handle walking and stairs will enjoy the caves and lake.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are recommended due to walking and stairs; bring a camera for photos.

What happens if Melissani Lake is crowded?
The guide may opt to spend more time at Myrtos Beach or other stops instead, depending on crowd levels.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
No, it isn’t suitable for wheelchair users due to stairs and uneven terrain.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What’s the best time to visit Melissani Lake?
Midday tends to offer the most vibrant water colors, but check availability to avoid peak crowds.

To sum it up, this Kefalonia tour offers a well-balanced mix of natural beauty, history, and scenic views. It’s best suited for travelers who want a guided experience that hits the highlights without taking up the entire day. If you’re after memorable photos and a good story with your sightseeing, it might just be the perfect addition to your Kefalonian adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: