Peratata holidays

Holidays to Peratata put you in the island’s former capital, and next-door to the current one. It’s a traditional village that stays out of the spotlight, but keeps the island’s best bits in easy reach.

Turned-back tradition

Head south-east out of Kefalonia’s capital, and you’ll stumble upon Peratata. This place decided to take a back seat in the 18th century – it was the island’s capital before handing over the crown to nearby Argostoli. Its first-rate location hasn’t changed, though – this place sits on the slopes of Mountain Ainos, the island’s tallest mountain, which means eye-catching vistas. The village serves as an example of a traditional Greek way of living – stone buildings are scattered around, which make a home for its 500 residents. And, things are kept simple with a solitary café, a single shop and a traditional taverna.

Doorstep sightseeing

This pint-sized place puts some of the island’s must-see sights on your doorstep – it’s home to ruins of a 16th-century fort. St George’s Castle was originally built by the Byzantines in the 12th century, and then re-built by the Venetians four centuries later. Plus, it’s got a hilltop location – it serves as a great lookout point for panoramic views across Kefalonia’s countryside.

Daytrips around the island

Peratata rubs shoulders with the island’s capital – it’s around a 10-minute drive to Argostoli. Head to the town’s harbour first thing, and you might spot loggerhead turtles in the calm waters around breakfast time. Plus, you’re a 40-minute drive from one of the island’s best-loved stretches of sand. The road from the capital to Skala runs right through the village, which makes a trip to its Blue Flag beach easy to tick off.