Myrtos Beach-Melissani lake

Introduction

If you’re dreaming of Greek island adventures, a tour that combines one of Kefalonia’s most iconic beaches with a visit to a breathtaking underground lake might just be your perfect day. This private experience offers a chance to enjoy Myrtos Beach’s famous white pebbles and clear waters alongside the mysterious beauty of Melissani Lake, all in a relaxed four-hour window.

What we love about this tour is the flexibility—you get plenty of free time at Myrtos to soak up the sun and swim, plus a fascinating boat trip through Melissani’s underground lake. The other big plus? It’s a private tour, so it feels personal and tailored. That said, the price point of $275.38 for up to 15 people might seem steep for some, especially since no entrance fees are included. Overall, it’s best suited for travelers who want a combination of scenic beauty and authentic local experiences, with a bit of comfort and convenience.

Key Points

• Stunning Scenery: Myrtos Beach is one of Greece’s most photogenic beaches, with striking white pebbles and shimmering blue waters.
• Flexible Timing: Ample free time at the beach allows for swimming, relaxing, or snapping memorable photos.
• Unique Natural Wonder: Melissani Lake offers an underground spectacle of stalactites, crystal-clear waters, and mythic tales.
• Comfort and Convenience: Private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle makes the journey smooth.
• Expert Guidance: Knowledgeable guides enhance your understanding of both the natural sites and local legends.
• Ideal for Relaxed Sightseers: With a manageable four-hour schedule, it’s perfect for those looking to explore without feeling rushed.

Detailed Review of the Tour Experience

Starting Point: Argostoli and Pickup Service

This tour begins with a pickup from Argostoli, the main town and transportation hub of Kefalonia. Having the convenience of door-to-door service means you can relax right from the start, avoiding the hassle of navigating local buses or taxis. The use of an air-conditioned vehicle not only keeps you comfortable but also underscores the tour’s focus on quality and ease.

Transfer to Myrtos Beach: A Visual Feast

The drive to Myrtos Beach is part of the adventure, as you’ll pass through scenic coastal roads offering picture-perfect views of the island’s rugged cliffs and turquoise waters. Myrtos isn’t just a beach — it’s a world-famous site that’s often featured in travel magazines thanks to its dramatic setting.

Arriving early—recommendations from past visitors suggest arriving before 9 a.m.—means you can secure a good spot. The beach is awarded the Blue Flag, indicating its quality and cleanliness, and has been voted 11 times the best beach in Greece by thalassa.gr. This recognition is well-deserved: the white pebbles and translucent blue waters make it an ideal spot for swimming, sunbathing, or simply soaking in the views.

The beach is fully organized with umbrellas, sunbeds, a canteen, and a lifeguard, so comfort is guaranteed. From the reviews, we see that early arrival is key to snagging a free umbrella and sunbed, as popularity means they fill up quickly. One traveler noted, “You have to arrive early, before 9 a.m., to get umbrellas and sunbeds (free!) and also park in front of the beach.” That’s good advice for maximizing your beach experience.

Free Time at Myrtos Beach

Once there, you have plenty of free time to enjoy the sea and sun. Whether you want to take a dip, explore the shoreline, or capture photos of the spectacular landscape, this portion of the tour is flexible. The length of stay allows for a relaxed experience, and it’s refreshing to have that balance of guided sightseeing and personal leisure.

Optional Swimming Stop (Not Included)

The tour mentions a swimming stop at an unreleased beach, which is not included in the standard package. This means if you’re eager for a secluded swim in a less crowded spot, you might want to bring that up directly with your guide or prepare to explore on your own after the official part of the tour.

Melissani Lake: A Natural Wonder

After your beach time, the tour heads towards Melissani Lake, a site that combines geological magic with mythic stories. Located near Karavomilos, this karstic lake was discovered in 1951 and is renowned for its unique formation—created by dissolution of rocks, resulting in a vast underground cavern.

The lake’s roof has partly collapsed, creating a natural opening that floods the space with natural light, illuminating the vibrant blue-green waters below. A boat ride led by a guide introduces visitors to this geological masterpiece, where stalactites hang like chandeliers and the water reflects the sky above. It’s a surreal experience, often described as walking into a natural sculpture.

Historically, Melissani was a site of worship dedicated to Pan and Nymph Melissani, with archaeological findings hinting at its mythic importance. As one traveler put it, “During antiquity the lake was a place of worship,” which adds a layer of mystique and connection to Greek legends.

Practical Details: Booking, Cost, and What’s Included

The cost of $275.38 covers private transportation for your group, making it a good value when you consider the cost of individual taxi rides and entrance fees. The pickup and drop-off service simplifies logistics, allowing you to relax and focus on enjoying the sites.

However, bear in mind that entrance fees for Melissani Lake are not included—expect to pay on-site if you choose to explore the cave interior. Food and drinks are also not part of the package, so plan your snacks accordingly.

The tour’s booking window averages 68 days in advance, indicating high demand, which is typical for popular Kefalonia attractions. The cancellation policy is flexible up to 24 hours before, giving you peace of mind if your plans change.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a balanced day of sightseeing and leisure without the hassle of organizing transportation or tickets. Nature lovers, photography enthusiasts, and those interested in Greek legends will find plenty to enjoy. It’s also well-suited for families and small groups, thanks to the private setting that offers a personalized touch.

If you’re looking for a full-day adventure or a deep dive into Kefalonia’s history and culture, this might feel a bit light, but as a half-day escape into some of the island’s most photogenic and mythic sites, it hits the mark.

The Sum Up

This private Myrtos Beach and Melissani Lake tour offers a convenient, scenic, and memorable way to experience some of Kefalonia’s most celebrated sights. The combination of a famous beach with stunning natural formations and a mystical underground lake creates a well-rounded snapshot of the island’s diverse beauty. The private transportation and flexible schedule mean you can enjoy these highlights without feeling rushed, making it a good choice for those who value comfort and authenticity.

While the price might be on the higher side for some, the inclusion of guided commentary, organized logistics, and the chance to explore at your own pace makes it worthwhile. You’ll love the stunning views, knowledgeable guides, and the chance to relax and soak in Kefalonia’s natural charm.

If your goal is to experience Kefalonia’s top sights with ease and comfort, this tour is an excellent option.

FAQ

• Is transportation included? Yes, private pickup and drop-off with an air-conditioned vehicle are included.
• How long is the tour? Approximately four hours, which balances sightseeing with free time.
• What’s the cost? $275.38 per group (up to 15 people), offering good value considering the included transportation.
• Are entrance fees covered? No, entrance fees to Melissani Lake are not included.
• Can I swim at Myrtos Beach? Yes, you have free time to swim and relax on the beach.
• Is this tour suitable for children? Most travelers can participate; it’s a family-friendly option.
• Do I need to book in advance? Yes, especially since it’s popular—average booking is 68 days ahead.
• What should I bring? Sunscreen, swimwear, water, and a camera for photos.
• Is there a guide at Melissani Lake? Yes, a guide leads the boat tour and explains the geological and mythic significance.
• What if I cancel last minute? You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour start time, but no refunds within 24 hours.

This Kefalonia tour combines the best of its natural beauty with the ease of private transport, making it perfect for travelers seeking a relaxing yet memorable island experience.