Kefalonia: Melissani Lake, Drogarati Cave, & Myrtos Day Trip

Kefalonia, the largest of the Ionian Islands, offers a day trip that promises to captivate visitors with its natural wonders and cultural heritage. From the serene Melissani Lake, where turquoise waters and mythological tales intertwine, to the awe-inspiring Drogarati Cave, teeming with impressive geological formations, this excursion promises an unforgettable experience. Culminating at the picturesque Myrtos Beach, renowned for its stunning vistas and inviting waters, the day trip provides a comprehensive glimpse into the island’s diverse beauty. With transportation and knowledgeable guides included, this itinerary is a must-consider for those seeking to enjoy Kefalonia‘s captivating allure.

Key Points

• This day trip to Kefalonia explores the island’s natural wonders, including the Melissani Lake, Drogarati Cave, and Myrtos Beach.
• The itinerary includes a visit to the Nautical Museum of Sami to learn about Kefalonia’s maritime heritage.
• Travelers can enjoy a 45-minute guided boat tour of the Melissani Lake, an underground flooded cave with archaeological significance.
• The 45-minute tour of the Drogarati Cave offers an opportunity to witness the stunning 100-million-year-old stalactites and stalagmites.
• The day trip includes convenient pickup options from various locations across the island and provides transportation via an air-conditioned bus.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Overview of the Excursion

This day trip to Kefalonia offers an opportunity to explore the island’s natural wonders and cultural heritage.

It begins with a visit to the Nautical Museum of Sami, providing insight into traditional and ancient shipbuilding practices.

The tour then delves into the geological marvels of the Drogarati Cave, a 100 million-year-old cave system showcasing stunning stalactites and stalagmites.

Next, visitors embark on a guided boat tour of the enchanting Melissani Lake, an underground lake with archaeological significance.

The final stop is the renowned Myrtos Beach, where travelers can enjoy free time for swimming and sunbathing in the stunning turquoise waters.

With a duration of 7 hours and a cancellation policy offering free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this day trip provides a well-rounded and flexible Kefalonian experience.

Highlights of the Itinerary

The excursion kicks off with a 20-minute visit to the Nautical Museum of Sami, where travelers can explore the island’s rich maritime heritage and traditional shipbuilding techniques.

Afterward, the group delves into the geological wonders of the Drogarati Cave, a captivating 100 million-year-old cave system featuring an array of stunning stalactites and stalagmites during a 45-minute tour.

Next, the tour takes visitors on a 45-minute guided boat cruise through the mystical Melissani Lake, an underground lake with archaeological significance.

Transportation and Pickup Details

The tour provides convenient pickup options from various locations across the island, with 15 different pickup and drop-off points to choose from.

Travelers in the Lassi area can be picked up at 8:45 AM, while those in the Argostoli area will be collected at 9:00 AM. The bus then heads to the Sami area at 9:15 AM, followed by Karavomilos at 9:30 AM and Agia Efimia at 9:45 AM.

The air-conditioned bus ensures a comfortable journey, transporting passengers to the day’s destinations.

With a range of convenient pickup locations, the tour caters to travelers across Kefalonia, making it easy to join the excursion and experience the island’s natural wonders.

Inclusions and Amenities

The tour includes day trip transportation, entrance fees to the Nautical Museum, Drogarati Cave, and Melissani Lake, as well as the availability of sunbeds and umbrellas for rent.

However, the experience may not be suitable for those over 95 years old.

Travelers are advised to bring the following:

• Swimwear
• Towel
• No large bags or luggage are allowed on the tour.

The overall experience is highly rated by past customers, with positive feedback on the tour guide and well-planned itinerary.

Some concerns were raised about occasional delays due to late arrivals at pickup points, but the transportation itself received an exceptional 4.9/5 rating.

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Ratings and Feedback

Past customers have given the Kefalonia day trip an impressive overall rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars based on 50 reviews.

The transportation was particularly well-received, earning a stellar 4.9/5 rating. Reviewers highlighted the competent and friendly tour guide, as well as the well-planned itinerary.

While most were satisfied with the value for money, rating it 4.4/5, some expressed concerns about occasional delays due to late arrivals at pickup points.

Visit to the Nautical Museum

After boarding the air-conditioned bus, visitors embark on a 20-minute journey to the Nautical Museum of Sami, where they can explore the region’s rich maritime heritage.

The museum features a wide range of exhibits showcasing traditional and ancient shipbuilding techniques. Visitors can learn about the history and evolution of seafaring in the area, from ancient Greek vessels to traditional fishing boats.

The museum also displays historical artifacts, such as navigational instruments, tools, and models of iconic ships. The visit provides a fascinating glimpse into Kefalonia’s deep-rooted connection to the sea, complementing the other highlights of the day trip.

Key exhibits include:

• Traditional wooden boats

• Nautical equipment and tools

• Scale models of historic ships

• Exhibits on local fishing and trade

• Interactive displays on maritime history

Exploration of Drogarati Cave

Having departed the Nautical Museum, visitors then venture underground to explore the magnificent Drogarati Cave, a geological wonder that has existed for over 100 million years.

The 45-minute guided tour takes them deep into the cave, where they’re greeted by an awe-inspiring sight: towering stalactites and stalagmites that have formed over millennia.

The cave’s complex network of chambers and passages showcases the power of nature and the intricate geological processes that have shaped this incredible natural attraction.

As visitors wander through the dim, shadowy corridors, they can’t help but feel a sense of wonder and appreciation for the sheer scale and beauty of this ancient subterranean world.

Boat Cruise on Melissani Lake

Visitors then embark on a 45-minute guided boat tour of the captivating Melissani Lake, an underground flooded cave with archaeological significance.

The boat glides effortlessly across the lake’s serene, turquoise waters, allowing visitors to admire the natural beauty of the cave’s limestone walls and high ceilings.

As the tour progresses, the guide shares fascinating insights into the lake’s history, including:

• Its discovery in 1951 by a local shepherd

• The presence of ancient ruins and artifacts on the lake’s floor

• The unique ecosystem and diverse aquatic life found within the cave

• The interplay of sunlight filtering through the opening above, creating a mesmerizing light show

• The lake’s role in the mythological story of the nymph Melissani

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Take Photos During the Boat Cruise on Melissani Lake?

Yes, visitors can take photos during the boat cruise on Melissani Lake. The tour allows ample time for photography, encouraging guests to capture the stunning underground lake’s natural beauty and archaeological significance.

Is There a Dress Code for the Visit to Drogarati Cave?

There’s no strict dress code for visiting Drogarati Cave, but visitors should wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes and light, breathable clothing as the cave can be cool and damp. Proper attire helps ensure a safe and comfortable experience.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Day Trip?

The trip’s instructions don’t mention restrictions on bringing your own food and drinks. You’re generally allowed to bring your own snacks and beverages, though the tour operator may recommend purchasing refreshments locally for convenience and to support the local economy.

Is There an Option to Extend the Time at Myrtos Beach?

The tour doesn’t offer an option to extend time at Myrtos Beach. The 2.25 hours of free time provided is the standard duration for this activity. Extending the visit would require booking a separate, customized tour.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Children or Senior Travelers?

Children under 12 and seniors over 65 may be eligible for discounted rates on this day trip. Customers should inquire about any available discounts when booking to take advantage of potential savings.

Recap

The Kefalonia day trip offers a delightful blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Visitors can enjoy the serene waters of Melissani Lake, marvel at the stunning Drogarati Cave, and unwind on the picturesque Myrtos Beach.

With transportation and guided tours included, this excursion promises an unforgettable experience that showcases the island’s unique charm and rich history.

You can check if your dates are available here: