From Argostoli: Melissani Lake and Myrtos Beach Guided Tour

Travelers looking for a taste of Greece’s natural beauty often find themselves drawn to Kefalonia, thanks to its stunning landscapes and peaceful vibe. If you’re considering a day trip that covers some of the island’s most iconic spots, this guided tour from Argostoli to Melissani Lake and Myrtos Beach offers a pretty decent snapshot of the best that Kefalonia has to offer.

What we really like about this tour is how it combines a unique underground lake experience with the chance to relax at one of Greece’s most famous beaches. The boat ride inside Melissani Cave is especially memorable because of its ethereal light effects, and the gorgeous Myrtos Beach provides a perfect setting for unwinding and soaking up the Mediterranean sun.

One thing to keep in mind is that the tour can be affected by weather—if storms hit or if the beach facilities are closed, the itinerary might shift. That’s worth considering if you’re visiting during less predictable seasons or if you’re especially eager to swim at the beach.

This trip is ideal for travelers who want a straightforward but well-organized way to see Kefalonia’s top natural sights without the hassle of planning every detail themselves. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate expert guides, scenic views, and a balanced mix of adventure and relaxation.

Key Points

• Balanced itinerary: Combines underground wonders and a stunning beach day.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable, multilingual guides enhance the experience.
• Value for money: At $68, it offers a lot considering transportation, entry fees, and guided commentary.
• Weather-dependent activities: Beach swimming and some experiences might change if conditions aren’t ideal.
• Limited facilities at Myrtos: Bring your own essentials like water, sunscreen, and a towel.
• Crowd considerations: Boat lines at Melissani can get busy during peak season, so patience is key.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

When you sign up for this 5.5-hour guided adventure from Argostoli, you’re signing up for a well-structured day that hits two of Kefalonia’s most coveted spots. From the moment you’re picked up at one of the 21 designated locations—ranging from hotels to cruise terminals—the journey already feels smooth and organized. The coach ride takes about 45 minutes, giving you a chance to relax, take in some scenery, or listen to your guide share tidbits about the island.

Melissani Lake: The Underground Marvel

Your first stop is the famous Melissani Cave, a site that’s both beautiful and mythologically significant. As you step into the cave, the atmosphere shifts immediately—you’re surrounded by towering rock walls and a calm subterranean lake glowing in shades of turquoise. The boat ride inside, with a guide at the helm, lasts about 10-15 minutes, giving you just enough time to marvel at the play of light filtering through the opening above.

Many visitors, including those who have reviewed the tour, mention how the boat ride feels almost magical. The light dancing on the water creates a surreal ambiance, and the cave’s natural formations are worth admiring. Some reviews note that during peak season, queueing for boats can take a while, so patience is crucial. However, the boat operators are friendly and help everyone capture photos, making the wait somewhat manageable.

Importantly, visitors aren’t permitted to swim in the lake itself, which is a measure to preserve the site. Still, the experience of gliding through the water and soaking in the natural beauty is definitely worth it.

Scenic Drive to Myrtos Beach

After the cave visit, you’ll hop back onto the coach for a 30-minute drive to the spectacular Myrtos Beach. The scenery during this drive is typically impressive—think rugged cliffs, lush greenery, and glimpses of the coastline. When you arrive, the view of the beach itself is breathtaking. Known for its powdery white pebbles and crystal-clear waters, Myrtos is frequently featured in travel magazines for good reason.

Relaxing at Myrtos Beach

You get about 1.5 hours here, which is enough to dip in the waters, sunbathe, or simply enjoy the view. The beach’s dramatic cliffs create a stunning backdrop, making every photo look like a postcard shot. Facilities are limited but include sunbeds, umbrellas, a small beach shack, showers, and toilets. Reviewers often mention that the beach is very well-organized in terms of amenities considering its remote location.

However, a few reviews noted that the beach was closed during some visits due to waves or weather, which can be frustrating if you’re eager to swim. It’s worth checking the weather forecast before booking or being prepared for a potential change of plans.

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Return Journey and Drop-offs

The coach then heads back to Argostoli over the next 50 minutes, giving you a relaxed ride back with some final commentary from your guide. The drop-offs are conveniently arranged at multiple locations, including hotels and the cruise port, making it easy to end your day without extra taxi hassle.

What the Tour Includes and What It Doesn’t

For $68, you’re getting quite a bit: pick-up and drop-off from various locations, transportation in a comfortable coach, a knowledgeable guide speaking in English, German, or Italian, and entry to Melissani Lake. The swimming stop at Myrtos lasts 1.5 hours, giving ample time to relax or explore.

Not included are food and drinks, so bringing snacks or a packed water bottle is a smart idea. Also, beach amenities like sunbeds and umbrellas aren’t included in the price, although they’re available for rent or purchase on-site.

The Real Traveler Experience

Reviewers consistently highlight how well-organized and friendly the staff are. One noted, “Our guide Sandra was wonderful,” and many appreciated guides who spoke perfect English, making the explanation of natural features and local stories engaging.

Although some travelers found the queue at Melissani a minor inconvenience, most agree that it’s a small price to pay for the stunning sights. As one reviewer put it, “The lake was simply stunning,” and others raved about how beautiful Myrtos Beach is, calling it “incredibly beautiful” and a “fabulous” spot to unwind.

A few reviews mentioned that the beach was closed on some days due to weather, which can be disappointing, especially if you’re counting on swimming. The tour providers do try to adapt when possible, but it’s good to be flexible.

Practical Tips for Making the Most of the Tour

• Bring water shoes and a towel—the beach is pebbly, and you’ll want to be comfortable when walking or swimming.
• Use sunscreen and sunglasses—the sun can be strong, especially when relaxing on the beach.
• Arrive early at your pickup location to avoid missing the bus or losing your spot in line at Melissani.
• Check weather conditions beforehand; if heavy storms are forecasted, the tour might be affected.
• Prepare for queues at Melissani during peak season—consider bringing a book or snacks for the wait.
• Capture photos early—the cave and the beach are very photogenic, and crowds can get heavy later in the day.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This is a good option for day-trippers who want a hassle-free way to see Kefalonia’s top attractions. It’s especially suitable for those who enjoy natural wonders, picturesque beaches, and guided commentary. If you’re traveling with friends, a partner, or even solo but love organized excursions, this tour offers a nice blend of sightseeing and relaxation.

Because the tour involves somewhat limited facilities at the beach, it’s better suited for travelers who are comfortable bringing their own essentials. It’s not ideal if you’re looking for a full day of swimming or if you require wheelchair access, as the description notes it’s not suitable for wheelchair users.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for families?
While the tour generally suits adults and older children, it’s not specifically marketed as family-friendly. The boat ride inside Melissani is short and gentle, but the stairs and walking involved might be challenging for very young children.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, especially during peak season, as the tour is popular. You can reserve your spot online and even choose to pay later, which adds flexibility.

What should I bring?
Sunscreen, sunglasses, swimwear, a towel, water, and water shoes are recommended. The facilities at the beach are limited, so pack accordingly.

How long is the boat ride inside Melissani Lake?
The boat ride lasts about 10-15 minutes, providing a brief but impressive experience inside the cave.

Can I swim in Melissani Lake?
No, swimming in the lake isn’t permitted to help preserve the environment. The boat ride is the main experience there.

What if the weather isn’t great?
If there’s bad weather, particularly strong waves or storms, the beach activities might be limited or canceled. The tour may then focus more on the cave and other areas.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Yes, many reviews praise the guides for their friendly attitude and good English skills, making the experience informative and enjoyable.

Final Thoughts

If you’re in Kefalonia and want a well-organized, reasonably priced tour that combines nature, culture, and beach relaxation, this trip from Argostoli is worth considering. It’s perfect for travelers who appreciate guided insights and want to see both an underground marvel and a stunning shoreline in one go.

While it might not be a day of intense adventure, it offers a balanced glimpse of Kefalonia’s natural beauty, giving you enough time to relax and take in the scenery without feeling rushed. Just remember to keep flexible about weather and crowds, and you’ll likely walk away with some beautiful memories of your Greek adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: