In the evening, I hatched a plan to unravel the mysteries of the island’s wonders, pitched it to the crew, but alas, my grand design met the iceberg of disapproval. The captain, embroiled in a laundry list of repairs and ship tweaks, and the first mate, the stalwart right-hand seaman, decided to form a dynamic duo to conquer the boat challenges. As for me, I’m not too keen on squandering the chance to explore this enchanting island. When will I set foot here again? Hence, I bravely assume the noble quest of procuring provisions. Bright and early, before my shipmates emerge from their slumber, I embark on a quest to the most distant supermarket – combining the virtuous act of grocery hunting with the sheer joy of adventure! To accomplish this daring feat, I enlist the services of a modest rental vehicle. Public transportation on this island is like a rare species, and time is indeed a rare commodity.
It’s, of course, beautiful. But spending only half a day exploring the largest island in the Ionian Sea is practically a crime. I should come back here for at least a week. Here’s a rough plan of what I would like to see:
- Melissani Cave Lake: (I was very close, but time was pressing, and the tour to the lake takes about an hour).
- Drogarati Cave: (See the photo at the top—stalactites, stalagmites, but you’ll have to descend 60 meters down a very steep stone staircase. Comfortable non-slip footwear is a must).
- Myrtos Beach: (I didn’t have time to go there, and there was no point—this beach requires at least a full day).
- A whole list of beaches — Lourdas, Katelios, Makris Gialos, Skala, Antisamos, Xi, Petani (some are visible in the photos, although each easily deserves a separate day).
- Fiskardo town in the northern part of the island (I didn’t make it there).
- The village of Peratata, 10 km east of the town of Argostoli (visible in some photos, with a castle on top of the mountain).
- Mantzavatata Winery.
