Kefalonia

Kefalonia is the largest of the Ionian Islands, located in the crystal-clear waters of the Ionian Sea off the western coast of mainland Greece. It sits just south of the islands of Corfu and Lefkada, and directly north of the island of Zakynthos. Unlike the Cyclades in the Aegean Sea, Kefalonia features incredibly lush, green landscapes.

The Melissani Cave lake is located on the eastern side of Kefalonia, near the town of Sami. Visitors can take small rowboats into the underground cavern to witness the brilliant, mesmerizing blue waters illuminated by natural sunlight streaming through a collapsed roof. It is one of the most famous natural tourist attractions on the entire island.

Yes, the 2001 film adaptation of Captain Corelli's Mandolin, starring Nicolas Cage and Penélope Cruz, was largely filmed on location in Kefalonia. The island is the actual historical setting of Louis de Bernières' beloved 1994 novel. The movie helped boost tourism to the island, highlighting its beautiful beaches and historical villages.

Kefalonia is the sixth-largest island in all of Greece, boasting a massive total area of about 781 square kilometers (roughly 301 square miles). Because of its large size, having a rental car is highly recommended to properly explore its diverse beaches and mountainous regions. It is by far the largest of the Ionian Islands.