Myrtos Beach-Melissani lake

Myrtos Beach-Melissani Lake Private Tour Review: A Balancing Act of Beauty and Convenience

Exploring the best of Kefalonia often means visiting the island’s most iconic spots. This private tour, offered by KOULOUMPIS TRAVEL, combines a visit to the breathtaking Myrtos Beach with a journey into the magical Melissani Lake. Designed for those who want a taste of Kefalonia’s natural wonders with guided ease, this 4-hour experience promises stunning scenery, expert insights, and a relaxed pace.

What we really appreciate about this tour is its flexibility—you’re free to enjoy Myrtos Beach at your own pace, soaking up the sun and admiring the jaw-dropping views. Plus, the visit to Melissani Lake adds a touch of otherworldly charm, giving you a glimpse into the island’s geological marvels. The main thing to keep in mind? It’s a relatively short tour, so it’s perfect if you’re after a quick, immersive experience rather than a full-day expedition.

One possible consideration is that the swimming stop at the beach isn’t included, so if swimming is your priority, you might want to plan for extra time. Nonetheless, for travelers who love natural beauty, practical transportation, and insightful guides, this tour strikes a solid balance. If you’re traveling to Kefalonia and craving both sun-soaked shores and mystical caves, this experience is likely to suit your plans—especially if you prefer to keep things simple and well-organized.

Key Points

• Convenient Private Transport: Enjoy air-conditioned, door-to-door pickup and drop-off, making the experience seamless.
• Iconic Locations: Visit Kefalonia’s most celebrated beach, Myrtos, and the enchanting Melissani Lake, both must-see sights.
• Flexible Beach Time: You get free time at Myrtos Beach to relax, swim, or simply admire the scenery.
• Expert Guidance: The tour includes knowledgeable guides who can enrich your understanding of the sites.
• Optimal for Short Visits: Perfect if you wish to see highlights without committing to a full-day tour.
• Highly Rated: With a full 5-star rating based on one review, travelers seem very satisfied with the experience.

A Deep Dive into the Kefalonia Experience

Starting Point: Argostoli and Convenience

This tour departs from Argostoli, Kefalonia’s lively capital, which makes it an ideal starting point for visitors. The pickup service is included, and the vehicle—an air-conditioned private transport—ensures a comfortable ride to the key sites. Being a private tour, your group won’t be mixed with strangers, which is a plus for those who prefer a personalized experience.

The timing (approximately four hours) is ideal for fitting into a busy sightseeing schedule, allowing you to see both Myrtos Beach and Melissani Lake without feeling rushed. The pickup is offered, and the group size (up to 15 persons) keeps the experience intimate, with the possibility of engaging more directly with your guide.

Myrtos Beach: The Star of Kefalonia

Often highlighted as the most famous beach on the island, Myrtos Beach is much more than just a pretty face. Its white pebbles and deep blue waters are frequently photographed, and its reputation is well-deserved—this beach has won the Blue Flag and has been voted 11 times as Greece’s best beach by Thalassa.gr.

In reality, the views from the road leading to Myrtos are part of the experience. As one reviewer mentioned, “You have to arrive early, before 9am, to get umbrellas and sunbeds (free!) and also park in front of the beach.” This indicates how popular this spot is, and arriving early can help you secure a good spot without the hassle of crowds or parking issues.

At the beach itself, you’ll find a small house at the edge, which adds to its quaint charm. The beach is around 800 meters long, surrounded by steep cliffs, creating a natural amphitheater of stunning vistas. Although swimming isn’t included in the tour, you’ll love the chance to relax, take photos, or soak up the sun.

Safety and amenities are well-covered with organized facilities—canteens, umbrellas, sunbeds, and a lifeguard—making it a comfortable visit for most travelers.

Melissani Lake: A Geological Wonder

Just a short trip from the beach, the Melissani Lake is a highlight of Kefalonia. The cave formed through natural karst processes over thousands of years, and its current form was revealed after a roof collapse. The underground lake’s crystal-clear waters and stalactite formations create an almost surreal atmosphere.

Discovered in 1951, the lake was once a place of worship in antiquity, with archeological finds including Pan’s sanctuary and various clay figures. Today, visitors reach the lake via an underground tunnel, and a boat ride with guides allows you to get up close to the natural sculptures and learn about the cave’s myths and history.

Travelers often describe the lake’s unique beauty as unforgettable—one review called it a “fully developed cave, which is 3.5 km long, 40m wide, and 36m high,” emphasizing its scale and majesty. The guide’s insights truly enrich the experience, illuminating the geological and mythological significance.

Practical Details and Tips

The cost of $275.38 per group (up to 15 people) offers good value considering the private nature, transportation, and guided experience. For many travelers, this means paying roughly $18 per person, which is reasonable for such tailored access to Kefalonia’s main attractions.

Since entrance fees are not included, budget for a small additional expense if you wish to explore the caves more thoroughly. Also, while food and drinks are not included, the convenience of a scenic drive and guided commentary make up for it.

The cancellation policy is flexible—free up to 24 hours before the tour—offering peace of mind in case your plans change.

What Reviewers Say

Although there is only a single formal review, it highlights Myrtos Beach as the “most iconic” spot, with impressive views from the road. The reviewer recommends arriving early to beat crowds, which aligns with our understanding of the location’s popularity.

The guide’s knowledge and friendliness seem to make a difference for travelers, adding layers of context beyond just snapping photos. A knowledgeable guide can turn a simple sightseeing trip into a memorable story.

Who This Tour Is Perfect For

If you’re looking for a short, well-organized trip that covers Kefalonia’s most celebrated natural sites, this tour ticks all the boxes. It’s especially suitable for first-time visitors or those with limited time but still want meaningful encounters with the island’s highlights.

Travelers who appreciate stunning scenery without the hassle of planning logistics will benefit from the private transportation and guided commentary. It’s also a good pick for families or groups wanting a relaxed, intimate experience with less walking and more sightseeing.

However, if you’re eager to spend hours swimming or exploring caves independently, you might find this tour somewhat limited. Still, for those who love beautiful vistas, geological marvels, and a touch of local insight, it offers a satisfying snapshot of Kefalonia’s best.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers private transportation, an air-conditioned vehicle, and pickup and drop-off from Argostoli. Entrance fees, food, and drinks are not included.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 4 hours, making it a great option for a half-day activity. It allows enough time to enjoy both the beach and the lake without feeling rushed.

Is the group size small?
Yes, with a maximum of 15 people, the experience remains intimate and personal, allowing for better interaction with guides.

Can I swim at Myrtos Beach?
While swimming is not included in this tour, you are free to enjoy the beach and its waters during your free time. Be aware that swimming stops are not part of the scheduled itinerary.

What should I bring?
Bring essentials like sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and a towel if you wish to relax on the beach. Since food and drinks aren’t included, consider packing snacks or drinks.

Are there any accessibility concerns?
Most travelers can participate, but the tour involves some walking and uneven surfaces, especially around the cave and beach areas.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled start. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.

Why choose this tour?
It’s a private, guided experience that highlights Kefalonia’s top sights, with flexible timing and a focus on comfort and expert insights—perfect for those wanting a curated taste of the island.

Final Thoughts

This private tour to Myrtos Beach and Melissani Lake offers a balanced combination of natural beauty, cultural intrigue, and practical convenience. It’s an ideal pick for travelers who want a well-organized glimpse into Kefalonia’s most famous spots without the fuss of self-driving or overcrowded tours.

The stunning vistas at Myrtos and the mystical atmosphere of the lake captivate even seasoned travelers, while the private transportation and knowledgeable guides make the experience smooth and enjoyable. Even with the minor limitation of no included swimming stop, the overall value and authentic charm make this tour worth considering.

For nature lovers, photography enthusiasts, and those eager to learn about Kefalonia’s geological stories, this tour delivers. It’s best suited for those who appreciate a relaxed pace, plenty of scenic photo opportunities, and insightful commentary. Whether you’re in Kefalonia for a quick visit or want a highlight reel of the island, this experience offers a taste of the very best it has to offer.