Corfu – family holiday
8. August 2020Mount Ainos
12. August 2020Argostolion - promenade over the sea.
Argostolion, the largest town in Kefalonia, is a living testimony to the island's rich history and cultural heritage. This bustling town lies on the west coast of Kefalonia and serves as the island's main economic, cultural and administrative centre.
The city of Argostolion, which has a rich history, has witnessed the ebb and flow of civilizations over the centuries. From Venetian, and French to British rule, each period has left an imprint on the city's architecture, traditions and way of life.
Bridge over the sea
The city's most striking icon is the "De Bosset" bridge, also known as the Drapano bridge. This historic bridge arches over the Koutavos lagoon, connecting the promenade with the other side of the water. The De Bosset Bridge was built in the early 19th century during the British occupation of Kefalonia to make it easier to get around the bay. The bridge offers incredible views of the lagoon, the surrounding hillsides and the lively waterfront promenade. At night, it’s beautifully illuminated and you can also see the city’s lights, which makes it a major tourist attraction.
The waterfront promenade, in turn, attracts with its picturesque charm. It is lined with palm trees, cafes, and taverns and provides the perfect setting for a quiet stroll or a relaxing drink with a panoramic view of the bay and the Ionian Sea. There are plenty of patisserie shops offering amazing cakes for the kids to try. Or they can enjoy an ice cream burger from Spathis bakery, which overlooks the bay.
Church of Agios Spiridon
A short walk from the promenade is the Orthodox church "Church of Agios Spiridon", which attracts especially at night with its pink illumination. From the outside, it looks like an ordinary modern church, but appearances are sometimes deceiving and it is definitely worth going to see it from the inside.
Church of Ekklisia Panagia
Right next to the bridge there is a second church "Ekklisia Panagia" also open for tourists in the evening. The rich decoration and ceiling paintings are magnificent and we certainly didn't expect something like this on a small island.
Mediterranean vibes of the city
The city pulses with activity and offers a diverse range of shops, boutiques and markets where you can browse everything from local handicrafts to international goods. The owners have apparently thought of families with children, and you'll be lured into the shops by popular animated characters.
Despite the urban environment, Argostolion is surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty. The city lies between the mountains and the sea and offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures, whether it's hiking through the rugged landscape, swimming in secluded coves or basking on pristine beaches.