The beautiful and peaceful Island of Ithaca can be reached via Kefalonia for a day trip but better to spend a night or two (or longer). Travel up into the cool of the mountains and view the capital Vathi and it's horse-shoe shaped harbour from way up above. Then cool off on one of the island's quiet pebble beaches - the crystal clear waters make up for the lack of sand. Maybe head to the pretty village of Frikes which is about as touristy as it gets on Ithaca- then back to Vathi for dinner at one of the many tavernas on the harbour front where you can indulge in a spot of yacht envy. If travelling back via Kefalonia get the late evening ferry and watch the sun set over the Kefalonian mountains which is just breathtaking.

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Lovely town, despite being the capital. Stroll along the quayside in the evening and enjoy good and plentiful food at reasonable prices in the many tavernas.

In the day wander over to Loutsa beach (20 minutes easy walk). Nice bar, ice-cold beer and good beach food, sheltered cove providing good swimming. If you fancy something more substantial try Dennes (the Australian) which you pass going to or from the beach. Good food with lovely views towards Vathy.

You need a car to get to the lovely Skinos or Sarakiniko beaches. If you go to Skinos take the footpath over the hills to Gidaki beach on the east coast; a delightful walk with stunning views as you climb.

Bus service runs twice-daily between Kioni and Vathy (though not during school holidays), and taxis can be expensive, so it's best to hire your own transport.

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The island's 'capital' is the perfect place to sit and have a coffee surrounded by mountain peaks and sea. The backstreets have excellent estiatoria (restaurants).

Bus service runs twice-daily between Kioni and Vathy (though not during school holidays), and taxis can be expensive, so it's best to hire your own transport.

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A typically Ionian, small pebble beach which looks unpromising. But as lunchtime approaches, a tiny beachside taverna opens up serving a menu of locally caught fish and fresh vegetables that changes every day.

Take the coastal path uphill from the village with fine views of the bay to your left. When the path runs out you'll find a track down to the beach.

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