This trip to Greece included a visit to the Ionian island of Kefalonia (Cephalonia). Contrary to the islands of the Aegean which are quite rocky and arid, the islands of the Ionian sea are lush and green. Italian influences can be found in the architecture but the food and beaches are pure Greece.

Kefalonia is a very large island and boasts it’s own international airport and two ports. In order to take our rental car across to the island, we caught a ferry from Kyllini on the mainland and after a 11/2 hour trip, we arrived at the port of Poros. Hotel Leivatho is a good 45 minutes to an hour’s drive from the port and is conveniently located 15 minutes from the town of Argostoli.

Image from Leivatho Hotel

Upon our arrival at the hotel, we were greeted with a drink of our choice and ice cream for the kids and were allowed to sit by the pool while we were checked in. Much appreciated as we were quite tired and dusty by this stage! It also allowed us to take in a first glimpse of our new home for the next 6 days and we weren’t disappointed. The view of the Ionian sea is superb, the island air refreshing and the pool very inviting!

Hotel Leivatho boasts contemporary architecture whilst incorporating traditional building techniques like the use of sandstone which is widespread on the island.This fusion of the old and the new is achieved with success and the effect is very unique and aesthetically pleasing.

Facilities include the infinity edge pool, a table tennis table (which we forgot to use… duh!) and a bar open until midnight daily. The buffet breakfast is adequate (although on the days we were there there was one day when the bread and croissants were quite stale) but for a very new hotel this is an area that will surely be improved upon!

Avithos beach is a short stroll from the hotel and boasts an organized beach with two taverns and a bar for coffees, drinks and icecreams. Although you can have a very comfortable and relaxing holiday at Hotel Leivatho, I would recommend hiring a car for your stay in order to explore the island at your leisure. However, if driving in Greece is not your thing, there are plenty of day trips (including a visit to the must see Melissani Cave), cruises and excursions that the team at the hotel would be happy to help you organize too.

All in all, Hotel Leivatho was a beautiful hotel, in a stunning location with great hospitality and I would recommend it to anyone!

Photography by Ms Gingham