Kefalonia, the idyllic Greek island, beckons visitors to explore its natural wonders. One captivating adventure is the half-day tour of Lake Melissani and Drogarati Cave. This immersive experience unveils the island’s stunning landscapes, from the awe-inspiring Drogarati Cave with its majestic stalactites to the serene turquoise waters of Melissani Lake. With a guided tour and a scenic stop at Myrtos Beach, this excursion promises to captivate the senses and leave travelers eager to discover more of Kefalonia‘s enchanting secrets.
Key Points
- This half-day tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Lake Melissani and Drogarati Cave in Kefalonia, Greece, with guided visits and transportation.
- The tour includes a 30-minute guided tour of Drogarati Cave, showcasing its impressive stalactites and stalagmites, and a 1-hour boat cruise on the turquoise waters of Melissani Lake.
- Participants can also enjoy a 10-minute photo stop at the stunning Myrtos Beach, known for its white sand and dramatic limestone cliffs.
- The tour is available in English, German, and Italian, with complimentary pickup from Argostoli Port for cruise ship passengers.
- Customers can benefit from free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a 4.4/5 overall rating based on 211 reviews.
Tour Overview
The half-day Lake Melissani and Drogarati Cave Tour offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of two of Kefalonia’s natural wonders.
Priced from €1,376 per person, the 4-hour tour is available in English, German, and Italian.
Cruise ship passengers can enjoy complimentary pickup from the Argostoli Port.
The tour includes a guided tour of the impressive Drogarati Cave and a boat cruise through the turquoise waters of Melissani Lake.
Travelers will also have a photo stop at the breathtaking Myrtos Beach.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this tour provides an excellent opportunity to discover Kefalonia’s captivating landscapes.
Itinerary and Experience
Guided tours of the impressive Drogarati Cave offer visitors the chance to witness its striking stalactite formations and unique acoustics during a 30-minute exploration. Following this, guests embark on a 1-hour guided boat cruise through the crystal-clear turquoise waters of Melissani Lake, where ancient cave formations are illuminated by sunlight. As a final stop, the tour includes a 10-minute photo opportunity at the breathtaking Myrtos Beach.
| Itinerary | Duration |
|---|---|
| Drogarati Cave Tour | 30 minutes |
| Melissani Lake Boat Cruise | 1 hour |
| Myrtos Beach Photo Stop | 10 minutes |
| Transportation | Varies |
| Total Tour Duration | 4 hours |
Drogarati Cave Guided Tour
Visitors embark on a 30-minute guided tour showcasing Drogarati Cave’s impressive stalactite formations and unique acoustics.
Descending roughly 150 steep steps, explorers enjoy the subterranean wonder, marveling at:
- Towering stalactites and stalagmites, created over thousands of years through the slow dripping of mineral-rich water.
- Exceptional acoustics, which allow the cave to be used as a natural stage for concerts and events.
- Unique geological features, including the "royal hall", a large chamber with striking rock formations.
- Remnants of ancient civilizations, hinting at the cave’s long and storied history.
The Drogarati Cave tour offers a captivating glimpse into the underworld, leaving visitors in awe of nature’s extraordinary craftsmanship.
Melissani Lake Boat Cruise
After the captivating exploration of Drogarati Cave, guests embark on a 1-hour guided boat cruise through the crystal-clear, turquoise waters of Melissani Lake.
The boat glides silently across the tranquil lake, allowing visitors to marvel at the stunning natural formations illuminated by the sun’s rays shining through the cave’s opening.
Travelers can observe the unique geological features, including stalactites and stalagmites, that have formed over centuries.
The serene atmosphere and vibrant colors create an unforgettable experience, immersing guests in the beauty of this underground wonder.
The boat cruise is a highlight of the tour, providing a chance to appreciate the captivating landscapes of Kefalonia’s Melissani Lake.
Myrtos Beach Photo Stop
Following the captivating lake cruise, the tour makes a brief 10-minute photo stop at Myrtos Beach. Recognized as one of Greece’s most beautiful beaches, Myrtos offers breathtaking panoramic views.
Visitors can:
- Snap stunning photos of the sweeping white sand and turquoise waters
- Admire the dramatic limestone cliffs that frame the crescent-shaped beach
- Soak in the tranquil ambiance and natural splendor of this iconic Kefalonian landmark
- Appreciate the opportunity to stretch their legs and take in the coastal scenery
This short but picturesque stop allows travelers to capture the essence of Kefalonia’s natural beauty before returning to the tour’s next destination.
Transportation and Accessibility
The tour includes air-conditioned coach transportation with multiple pickup and drop-off locations, providing convenient options for travelers.
Visitors can choose from 24 different pickup points, including the Argostoli Port for cruise ship passengers. However, the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, as the Drogarati Cave requires navigating approximately 150 steep steps.
The boat ride at Melissani Lake is conducted in 12-man rowboats, and the duration may vary depending on the visitor queue.
Travelers should come prepared with comfortable shoes, sunscreen, water, and appropriate clothing to fully enjoy the tour’s activities while respecting the natural environment.
Important Information for Visitors
Accessibility is a key consideration for this tour, as the Drogarati Cave requires visitors to navigate approximately 150 steep steps.
While the boat ride through Melissani Lake is generally accessible, swimming is prohibited to protect the natural environment.
Visitors should come prepared with:
- Comfortable shoes
- Sunscreen
- Water
- Appropriate clothing
Proper identification documents are also necessary, with EU passengers requiring an ID and international passengers needing a passport.
Customer Reviews and Booking
How do the tour’s customer reviews fare? Based on 211 reviews, the Kefalonia Cave Tour boasts an impressive 4.4/5 overall rating.
Travelers commend the tour’s efficient transportation, excellent organization, and knowledgeable guides. Some suggest extending the time at Melissani Lake and including a dedicated lunch break. Many reviewers highlighted the informative and well-structured nature of the tour experience.
For those interested in booking, the tour offers a "reserve now, pay later" option, allowing flexibility. Visitors can check availability for specific dates and times, and select their preferred language during the booking process.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, the Kefalonia Cave Tour provides a hassle-free planning experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can We Stop for Lunch During the Tour?
The tour does not include a designated lunch break. However, travelers can opt to bring their own food and eat during the free time provided at the tour sites or in the transportation between locations.
Are There Any Additional Costs Beyond the Tour Price?
The tour price covers the guided visits to Drogarati Cave and Melissani Lake, as well as transportation. There are no additional costs mentioned, though visitors will need to purchase their own food and drinks during the tour.
Can We Take Photos During the Boat Ride at Melissani Lake?
Yes, visitors are allowed to take photos during the boat ride at Melissani Lake. However, swimming in the lake is prohibited to protect the natural environment.
Are There Any Size or Weight Restrictions for the Boat Ride?
The tour’s itinerary doesn’t mention any size or weight restrictions for the boat ride at Melissani Lake. Visitors can expect to ride in 12-man rowboats, with the entry duration varying based on the queue.
Can We Extend the Duration of the Tour?
The tour’s duration can’t be extended, but visitors can opt for add-on experiences or a private tour for more flexibility. The standard half-day tour offers a rundown of the key sites within the set timeframe.
Recap
This half-day tour of Kefalonia’s natural wonders is an ideal way to experience the island’s stunning beauty. Visitors will explore the impressive Drogarati Cave, cruise the turquoise waters of Melissani Lake, and capture the picturesque Myrtos Beach. With transportation and accessibility covered, this tour provides a comprehensive and captivating introduction to Kefalonia’s captivating landscapes.