Skala, Greece Guide
Skala is a charming coastal town located on the southeastern coast of Kefalonia, Greece. Known for its long, sandy beach and crystal-clear turquoise waters, Skala offers a relaxing and picturesque escape. The town boasts a laid-back atmosphere, making it ideal for families, couples, and anyone seeking a tranquil holiday. Beyond its beautiful beach, Skala offers a glimpse into Kefalonia's rich history and natural beauty. Explore the ruins of a Roman villa with intricate mosaics, hike through the surrounding hills dotted with olive groves and vineyards, or take a boat trip to discover hidden coves and secluded beaches along the coastline. Skala provides a perfect blend of relaxation, exploration, and authentic Greek charm.
Food & Cuisine
Skala offers a delightful culinary experience with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. Seafood is a highlight, with numerous tavernas serving grilled fish, calamari, and other delicacies caught fresh from the Ionian Sea. Traditional Kefalonian dishes like meat pie (Kreatopita), cod pie (Bakaliaropita), and rabbit stew (Stifado) are also worth trying. Several restaurants line the beachfront, offering stunning views while you dine. For a more authentic experience, venture into the backstreets to discover smaller, family-run tavernas serving home-cooked meals. Don't miss the opportunity to sample local wines, such as Robola, a crisp white wine produced on the island.
Nightlife
Skala's nightlife is generally relaxed and family-friendly. Many bars and tavernas along the beachfront stay open late, offering cocktails, local wines, and live music on some evenings. The atmosphere is generally laid-back, perfect for enjoying a drink while watching the sunset or listening to the gentle sound of the waves. While Skala doesn't have nightclubs, there are a few bars that offer a livelier atmosphere with music and dancing.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Skala is during the shoulder seasons, from late April to June and September to October. During these months, the weather is warm and sunny, the crowds are smaller, and prices are generally lower than in the peak summer months of July and August. The sea is warm enough for swimming, and the countryside is lush and green.
Transportation
Local buses connect Skala to other towns and villages on Kefalonia, including Argostoli, the island's capital. Bus schedules can be found at the local bus station or online. Taxis are also readily available in Skala, offering a convenient way to travel around the area. Car rentals are a popular option for exploring the island at your own pace, with several rental agencies located in Skala.
Airport
Kefalonia International Airport (EFL) is located approximately 35 kilometers (22 miles) from Skala. The journey by car or taxi takes around 45-60 minutes. Taxis are readily available at the airport. Alternatively, you can pre-book a private transfer or rent a car at the airport to explore the island at your own pace.
Attractions
Roman Villa of Skala
The Roman Villa of Skala features well-preserved mosaic floors from a Roman-era villa. Visitors can admire the intricate designs and learn about the villa's history. The site provides insights into Roman life on the island. It's a small but significant archaeological site.
Patmos Archaeological Museum
Housed in a traditional building in Skala, the Archaeological Museum showcases artifacts from Patmos' rich history, including pottery, sculptures, and inscriptions. Learn about the island's past from ancient times to the Byzantine era. A must-see for history buffs.
Cave of the Apocalypse
This sacred cave is believed to be where Saint John received his visions and wrote the Book of Revelation. Descend into the cave and feel the weight of history as you see the rock where he rested his head and the fissure through which God's voice was said to have spoken. A deeply moving and significant religious site.
Skala Port
The bustling port of Skala is the main hub of Patmos. Watch the ferries come and go, browse the shops, and enjoy a meal at one of the many waterfront restaurants. It's a great place to soak up the local atmosphere and plan your island adventures.
Day Trips
Sami is a bustling port town with a rich history. It's close to several attractions, including the Melissani Cave, Antisamos Beach (featured in Captain Corelli's Mandolin), and the ruins of Ancient Sami.
1 hour 15 minutes by car Mount Aenos National Park offers stunning views of the island and surrounding Ionian Sea. Hike through the unique black pine forests and enjoy the diverse flora and fauna.
1 hour 30 minutes by car The Melissani Cave is an underground lake with stunning turquoise waters, illuminated by sunlight streaming through a collapsed roof. A boat tour through the cave is a must-do.
1 hour 10 minutes by car Antisamos Beach is a beautiful pebble beach with crystal-clear turquoise waters, surrounded by lush green hills. It's a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.
1 hour 15 minutes by car Poros is a charming port town with a relaxed atmosphere. It's known for its beautiful beaches, traditional tavernas, and the Monastery of Atros, offering panoramic views.
30 minutes by car Assos is a picturesque village built on a peninsula, connected to Kefalonia by a narrow isthmus. It features a Venetian fortress, colorful houses, and a tranquil harbor.
2 hours 30 minutes by car Lixouri is the second-largest town on Kefalonia, located on the Paliki peninsula. It offers a more laid-back atmosphere than Argostoli, with a charming town square, beaches, and the Monastery of Kipoureon.
2 hours by car and ferry (from Argostoli) Argostoli is the capital of Kefalonia, offering a vibrant harbor, shops, restaurants, and the De Bosset Bridge, a historical landmark. You can also visit the Archaeological Museum of Argostoli to learn about the island's history.
1 hour by car Sami
Travel Time
Activities
Mount Aenos National Park
Travel Time
Activities
Melissani Cave
Travel Time
Activities
Antisamos Beach
Travel Time
Activities
Poros
Travel Time
Activities
Assos
Travel Time
Activities
Lixouri
Travel Time
Activities
Argostoli
Travel Time
Activities