Visit Melissani Lake Cave by Boat with Myrtos View Point

Discover Kefalonia with a Visit to Melissani Lake Cave and Myrtos Viewpoint

This guided tour promises a well-balanced glimpse of some of Kefalonia’s most celebrated sights — from the enchanting Melissani Lake Cave to the breathtaking views at Myrtos Beach. While it’s a short excursion of around four hours, it packs in enough scenery and local color to give you a memorable snapshot of the island’s natural beauty.

What we particularly like about this tour is the combination of a comfortable, coach-based journey with opportunities to capture stunning photos—especially at the Myrtos Viewpoint. The inclusion of a friendly driver/guide who offers live commentary adds a personal touch, making it more than just a sightseeing drive.

However, a potential downside is the relatively brief time allocated at each stop, which might leave some wanting more in-depth exploration. The cave visits, in particular, are quick, with boat rides that last just a few minutes, and waiting times that can be longer during peak season.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a straightforward, relaxing way to see a handful of Kefalonia’s best-known spots without the hassle of organizing transport or guides themselves. If you’re short on time but eager to soak in iconic views and enjoy local insights, this experience could be a great fit.

Key Points

• Comfortable transport: A coach trip with air conditioning and a friendly driver makes for an easy, stress-free day.
• Stunning photo ops: The Myrtos Viewpoint offers one of the most famous vistas in Kefalonia, perfect for capturing memorable shots.
• Concise sightseeing: Stops are timed to give you a taste of each location without feeling rushed, but may leave some wanting more time.
• Authentic insights: Live commentary from the guide enhances the experience, revealing local tips and background.
• Value for money: At just over $78 per person, it’s a reasonable way to see key sites with transportation and guiding included.
• Limited cave activity: The boat ride inside Melissani Cave is brief, and waiting times can be longer during busy seasons.

An In-Depth Look at the Kefalonia Highlights

Melissani Lake Cave: An Enchanting Natural Wonder

Our journey begins with a visit to the Melissani Lake Cave, located just outside Sami. This site is often described as one of the most striking natural attractions in Greece. Inside, a beautiful underground lake shimmers amid lush greenery and rocky formations. The boat ride across the lake lasts only about five minutes, but it’s enough to feel like stepping into a secret world.

One thing to keep in mind is that the admission fee of €10 per person is not included in the tour price. Many reviews mention that the wait times can be longer during peak season—sometimes up to 30 minutes or more—so patience is helpful here. A reviewer, Oanh, noted the boat ride felt short, but the waiting period was a bit dull. That said, the natural ambiance and the way sunlight filters through the cave’s opening create a magical atmosphere that makes the wait worthwhile for many visitors.

Myrtos Beach Viewpoint: A Snapshot of Kefalonia’s Iconic Coast

Next, the tour heads north to the Myrtos Beach Viewpoint, where you’ll be greeted with one of the most breathtaking views on the island. The beach itself, often featured on postcards, is framed by towering cliffs and surrounded by lush hills. You’ll have around 35 minutes here, enough time to snap a few photos, soak in the scenery, and perhaps enjoy a quick break.

Reviewers highlight how stunning the vista is — Esther, for example, appreciated the opportunity to take good photos and noted how the view is “famous for a reason.” During this stop, no admission fee is required, making it a cost-effective highlight. It’s especially great if you’re into landscape photography or simply want to marvel at one of Greece’s most photogenic beaches.

Passing by Koutavos Lagoon: Turtles and Tranquility

The tour also passes by the Koutavos Lagoon in Argostoli, notable as a habitat for Caretta Caretta turtles. While the group doesn’t always stop here, the driver may pause if time permits, giving travelers a chance for some quick photos or simply to appreciate the peaceful waters and natural environment.

One of the tour’s subtle charms is its flexibility; if the guide notices enough interest, additional time may be allocated here. It’s a quiet, scenic spot that offers a different kind of beauty compared to the dramatic sea cliffs and caves.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour price of $78.25 per person covers transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, a live guide, bottled water, and hotel or port pickup and drop-off—a package that balances convenience and value. The guide, Giorgio, receives praise for being friendly, helpful, and professional, with reviewers mentioning that he made good suggestions for local cafes and checked in on guests’ satisfaction.

However, the admission fees for Melissani Cave (€10) and the Drogarati Cave (€10) are not included, which adds a small extra expense. Some travelers might find it worth budgeting for these, especially if caves are a must-see for you.

The Transport and Group Size

The journey is designed to be relaxing, with most of the time spent enjoying the scenery rather than navigating busy streets. The tour is capped at 45 travelers, so it’s not overly crowded, yet large enough to be lively. The coach is comfortable, and the driver’s commentary adds an engaging layer of storytelling.

Timing and Pacing

Most reviews agree that the timing at each stop is reasonable, though the cave visit can involve some waiting, particularly during busy periods. The boat ride itself is short but impactful, giving just enough time to appreciate the cave’s interior. The total duration of approximately four hours makes this a good half-day option, especially if you’re on a cruise or want an easy introduction to Kefalonia.

Authentic Experiences and Valuable Insights

Readers of the tour reviews note that the guide, Giorgio, is particularly personable, making the trip more enjoyable with friendly conversations and helpful suggestions. One reviewer pointed out how he checked to ensure everyone was satisfied, which can make a difference in group dynamics.

The scenic stops are well-chosen for their beauty and fame; Myrtos Viewpoint, in particular, is a crowd favorite. Several guests mentioned that the view is “famous for a reason,” and it’s easy to see why when you stand atop the cliffs looking down at the shimmering sands below.

While some found the cave activities somewhat brief, others appreciated the opportunity to snap photos and experience Kefalonia’s natural wonders without the stress of planning their own route. The inclusion of bottled water and transportation adds to the value, making it a hassle-free way to see the highlights.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is perfect for travelers who want a quick, scenic overview of Kefalonia’s highlights, especially if you’re short on time or arriving via cruise. It’s suited for those who appreciate natural beauty and are okay with limited time at each site. The comfortable bus and live guide help make the experience relaxed, and the photo opportunities at Myrtos Viewpoint are an extra bonus.

However, if you’re seeking an in-depth exploration of caves or want more time to explore each spot thoroughly, you might find this tour somewhat rushed. Also, if you’re sensitive to waiting times, particularly for the caves, it’s worth considering the peak season during your planning.

The Sum Up

This Kefalonia tour offers a compelling blend of scenic vistas, natural wonders, and local insights. The highlight for many is the spectacular view at Myrtos Beach, paired with the mesmerizing Melissani Lake Cave—both iconic sights that capture the island’s rugged beauty. The guided element adds a personal touch, with the driver/guide sharing helpful tips and making the journey enjoyable.

While it’s a brief experience with some waiting involved, the value for the price remains solid. It’s especially suited for travelers who want a relaxed, guided introduction to Kefalonia’s most photogenic spots without the hassle of self-organized tours. And if you’re a fan of stunning views, natural caves, and a bit of local storytelling, this tour has plenty to offer.

For those looking for a snapshot of Kefalonia’s charm, this experience can be a perfect, fuss-free choice—leaving you with photos, memories, and a few local stories to take home.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour provides pickup and drop-off from the cruise ship terminal or hotel in Argostoli, with an air-conditioned coach included.

How long is the tour?
The total duration is approximately 4 hours, making it a good half-day excursion.

Are cave entry fees included?
No, the €10 fee for Melissani Cave and €10 for Drogarati Cave are not included and need to be paid on-site.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable clothing, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a camera. It’s also wise to carry some cash for cave entrance fees and optional purchases.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most likely yes, as it involves minimal walking and a relaxed pace, but always check with the provider about age restrictions.

Will I have enough time at each stop?
Most reviewers say yes, but cave visits are brief, and waiting times can extend during peak season.

Can I expect good photo opportunities?
Absolutely, especially at Myrtos Viewpoint and inside Melissani Lake Cave.

Is the tour suitable for those with mobility issues?
The caves involve boat rides and some walking, so it may be less suitable for travelers with mobility challenges.

What’s the best time of year for this tour?
While confirmed year-round, summer months may see longer wait times at the caves and busier crowds, so plan accordingly.