Yasas - Oneira Holidays

Oneira Holidays
Cephalonia & Ithaca
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Yasas
Thank you for your interest in our beautiful islands – the Islands of Dreams.
At Oneira we pride ourselves on our personal service. Over the years our guests have
become our friends, many returning year after year. They have come to love these islands as
much as we do. And they have come to appreciate the unique Oneira friendliness.
Dionisia runs our office in Aghia Efimia; she is responsible for the care and welfare of
our guests. She is a native Cephalonian so, a truly Greek friendliness is guaranteed.
She is always available to offer any help you may need – car hire, boat hire, directions, and
advice or simply to chat and pass the time.
We pride ourselves on the standard of accommodation we offer. We have inspected all
of them personally and made sure that they all meet our standards. Not just for comfort, space,
fittings and location; but for the special Oneira feeling of welcome created by people who are our
close friends and understand and appreciate our ethos.
Whether or not you have been to Cephalonia or Ithaca before, you are in for a truly
wonderful experience.
Our aim is to make sure that you get the best of everything.
We look forward to welcoming you.
Dionisia & Barry
I s l a n d s
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o f
“It was purely magical - the holiday that dreams are made of”
o f
D r e a m s
C
ephalonia and Ithaca rest in the unbelievably blue waters of the Ionian
Sea like mythical places glimpsed in a dream. And, in many ways, they
are just that.
A treat for all the senses.
There is breathtaking scenery, the most wonderful light and a stunning
sea view at every turn.
The heady mixture of the fresh air, pines and the ever-present sea offers
instant relaxation.
You are serenaded by birdsong to the accompaniment of the tinkling bells
of the wandering goats.
Once all that has tired you out, rest a while in one of the many friendly
tavernas, where you can enjoy good simple food prepared with the freshest
of ingredients – accompanied by the superb local wines.
And, as if that were not enough, there are the Islanders themselves. As
warm and welcoming as their climate, they are famous throughout Greece
for their charm, friendliness and an impish sense of humour. They enjoy
their lives at a relaxed easy going pace and you cannot avoid doing the
same.
The velvet soft waters and the lush green islands are warmed by the sun
to cocoon you in a gentle feeling of well being. The days are followed by
nights of languid warmth. Clear navy blue skies with far too many stars
create an irresistible atmosphere of peace and contentment.
The dream islands of Cephalonia and Ithaca wait. And what better way
to see them than with Oneira, specialist in dream holidays.
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Cephalonia
‘Cephalonia is one of the most beautiful island we have ever stayed on . . .
nothing could have prepared us for this, it is exceptional.’
A
lthough just thirty miles long and fifteen miles wide,
Cephalonia has a grandeur and stature unmatched in the Ionian
Sea.
It demands, deserves and rewards exploration.
Cephalonia is virtually a living history of the western
world. It seems to have been occupied by every empire builder
imaginable. Some friendly, some less so. Romans, Venetians,
French, Russians, Turks and the British have all left their mark.
Their legacy can be seen in fortresses, ruins, churches and
architecture; whilst the Castle of Saint George rewards the drive
up to its precipitous position with a glimpse of both a bygone
age and faraway islands. Much closer, steeped even deeper in
time, the birthplace of Odysseus, Ithaca, a vision of mythology,
sits just off the north east coast.
For walking or driving in the country, Cephalonia is, quite
simply, a dream. Breathtaking views wait round every corner.
The scenery is stunning. Mountain tracks through beautiful pine
forests take you to summits where the incredibly clear air offers
a light and spectrum beyond experience.
There are small tranquil villages where the taverna is as
much for meeting as for eating. Churches and Monasteries perch
on cliffs in the most unlikely of settings.
Cephalonia is blessed with a number of picturesque
harbours that are a strollers delight. Fiskardo with its flotillas
of yachts and fishing boats is always fascinating and also offers
a wide range of tiny shops offering arts, crafts and gifts from all
over Greece.
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Assos is probably the most stunning location for a village you will ever see.
Perched on a thin finger of land between the mainland of Cephalonia and a sea locked
mountain with its own fortress, it is the perfect spot for a quiet lunch and to sample the
local wines.
The Venetians founded the capital, Argostoli, in 1757. It offers excellent shopping
streets and the bustle of a huge daily fresh produce market. For an insight into the
history and the culture of the Western world, you can browse around the archaeological
museum and the Corgialenios library, whilst bars, cafes and tavernas abound for a
refreshing break. In the evening, Vallianou Square is the place to see and be seen.
Cephalonia’s caves are simply breathtaking but for wonders of a less natural
order visit the Monastery of St. Gerasimos patron saint of Cephalonia, situated in the
Omala Valley. Its murals are an unbelievable vision of a painter’s art. You can learn
about the inexplicable events that still occur at the site of an incredible feat of worship
and dedication.
A magnificent National Park surrounds the highest point in the Ionian where
Mount Ainos rises to 1,628m., stroll amongst the tall scented trees, seemingly on top of
the world. Go on a clear day when Zakynthos, Ithaca, Lefkarda, the Gulf of Patras and
Corfu spread before you floating in an azure sea. You might even be lucky enough to
see the wild horses, the last of an ancient breed that once inhabited the park in
abundance.
Cephalonia is civilised escapism with an innocent charm and immense character.
‘Cephalonia is a place
that just pulls at your heart’
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‘I cannot thank you enough for creating such a wonderful vacation and
I understand why Cephalonia is such an amazing place.’
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aghia efimia
‘Aghia Efimia was wonderfu
fabulous restaur
It is in the north that the
real Cephalonia is to be found;
amongst its beautiful villages,
mountains and stunning
coastline.
The pretty little village of
Aghia Efimia is a natural harbour
on the north east coast, much
favoured by flotillas of small
sailing boats. Sheltered by the
mythical island of Ithaca, it
overlooks the calm waters of
Sami Bay. Here you will find
everything you will need for the
perfect relaxing holiday. Two
beaches lead gently down into
the warm sea for perfect bathing.
A short stroll beyond, seemingly
to nowhere, brings you to the
Paradise Beach, one glimpse will
show you how it got its name.
The crystal clear Ionian is ideal
here for swimming and
snorkelling and north of the
village there are a host of tiny
secluded coves; some accessible
only by the boats you can hire.
There are well-stocked minimarkets, bakeries offering warm
bread baked on the premises –
just think of those breakfasts! –
a post office and a superb choice
of cafes and tavernas around the
harbour.
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was wonderful - the warm sea, the
bulous restaurants, the lovely people’
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Watch the world go by
whilst sitting in the shade at a café
bar – time slips by with an
irrelevant slowness. Later on, the
tavernas will temp you with a
mouth watering array of fresh,
locally prepared dishes for you to
linger over – you will long
remember these perfect evenings.
Aghia Efimia may be small, but it
offers all the facilities you will need.
Our accommodation in
Aghia Efimia is no more than a short
stroll from the beaches and all the
village amenities; at the Oneira
office in the village we can arrange
taxis, car and boat hire, ferry tickets
and advise on buses, excursions and
introduce you to the sights and
sounds of this beautiful part of a
beautiful island.
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‘The village of Aghia Efimia is in a stunning location. The village has a
lovely chilled out atmosphere and we had a truly relaxing week.’
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KARAVOMILOS
‘. . . everything we could have w
and sand holiday for total relaxa
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B
eyond Aghia Efimia sand and shingle coves hug the coast road to Sami; you
can usually find a small cove or sheltered beach all to yourself.
Along this road, between the pristine pebbled beaches at Aghia Paraskevi, during
high season a taverna offers cool drinks, snacks and relaxing music; extensive lawns
spread under shading trees where you can unwind, absorbing the vista of Ithaca.
Further on the hamlet of Karavomilos is a quiet retreat at the western side of
the Bay of Sami. There is a park, eucalyptus tree-lined beach and a lake. The pretty
lake is quite famous; water that is sucked under the island at the sea mill at Katavothres
near Argostoli surfaces here. Nearby is the underground lake of Melissani, a shrine to
Pan in prehistoric times dates back 30,000 years. The crystal clear mysterious saltwater lake immerses you in a shimmering play of blue and violet colours, caught by the
sun filtering though the roof of the chasm 100 feet overhead.
Pull up a chair at one of the kafeneions, head for the beach or sit in quiet
contemplation by the lake.
Karavomilos is home to our charming hotel accommodation and exclusive villas.
could have wished for in a sun, sea
or total relaxation’
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s a m i
‘A week was just not long enough to enjoy all that this
wonderful island has to offer’
The long waterfront at Sami is lined
with shops; shaded restaurants and tavernas
serve a variety of tempting meals and snacks
augmented by the locally caught fish of the day.
In the harbour boats bob in the clear blue water
as if waiting impatiently for something to do.
Seek out the ruins of Ancient Sami the most
important of the four great city-states that ruled
Cephalonia over 3000 years ago and minted its
own coins.
Antisamos – set in a bay of exceptional
beauty - picturesque and impossible to resist a crescent of white shingle snuggling into lushly
forested hills spilling down into a wine dark sea
- one of the most exquisite pebble beaches on
Cephalonia.
At the highest point of the road to this
beautiful bay, there is a small footpath that leads
to the Dichalia lighthouse. Although no more
than a navigation light it is the best place on
Cephalonia to see dolphins - especially in winter
and spring, when the dolphins swim into Sami
Bay.
Near to Sami is the Drogarati cave – still
developing after 150 million years – a glut of
orange and yellow stalactites and stalagmites,
a stunning cathedral like central chamber with
extraordinary acoustics, Maria Callas once sang
here.
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S t g e o rg e s
‘the rugged beauty, tranquility and relaxing
nature of this island is wonderful’
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T
his beautiful area offers some of
the best panoramic views to be seen in
Cephalonia. At its heart is the Castle of St
George set 320 metres above sea level and
the islands capital and seat of government
until 1757. The tiny village known as Kastro
at the foot of the castle has narrow streets
and remains of pre-earthquake houses can
still to be seen; 15,000 people once lived
clustered around the castle which offered
protection from marauding pirates.
Panoramic vistas take in the capital of
Argostoli, the monastery of Saint Andreas,
lovely views of Mount Ainos and coastal
views in the south.
Spectacular scenery and lovely
villages abound; there is much to explore
here – The Ainos National Park is a must;
the important monasteries of St Andreas
and St Gerasimos housing some of the
islands most precious artefacts are close
by; the glorious sandy beaches along the
southern coast are a short drive away and
the Museum of Natural History is in the
village of Davgata should not be missed.
The area is the most important
wine growing region on the island
and famous for it’s internationally
acclaimed wines.
For those seeking a different
perspective of Cephalonia we are
pleased to offer our guests the
experience of staying at the
unique Museum Hotel or the
Gentilini Wine Retreat; both
ideally located to explore all the
many facets that this region has
to offer.
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ITHACA
‘Pray that the road is long,
That the summer mornings are many,when,
With such pleasure, with such joy
you will enter ports seen for the first time...’
Kavafis
It is Homer’s epic poem, The Odyssey that has made Ithaca famous
through the ages. Odysseus’ journey of twelve years eventually brings
him to Ithaca, eternal symbol of home and the journey’s end.
There can be no more timeless way to arrive at a Greek island than across
that same blue Ionian Sea. Ferries from neighbouring Cephalonia treat
the traveller to the sight of a string of glorious deserted coves against a
verdant mountain backdrop.
Here you will find a special magic at every turn. Beauty reigns
supreme throughout. In the trees and mountains. In the impossibly blue
sea. And in every little village with their brightly coloured doors and rough
walls lost under countless layers of whitewash. Days are slow and tranquil.
Life is unhurried and pleasure is found in the simplest of pastimes.
One thing you can never escape in Ithaca is the sea. From virtually
any vantage point, the sea is visible in one, two or even three directions.
An island formed by two mini mountain ranges linked only by a narrow
strip. Roads running high above the coast give tantalising glimpses of
beaches lapped by water so crystal clear the bands of colour gleam like an
iridescent rainbow – jade, turquoise, opal, emerald and every other shade
of blue and green.
Inland Ithaca is as alluring as the sea, especially in the spring when
innumerable flowers burst out into a colourful carpet all over the island
adding their fragrance to the natural spirit of Spring - walking in the island
is an immense pleasure.
Ithaca has been inhabited for almost six thousand years. Some of
the earliest fragments of pottery found here have been dated back to 2700
BC; an amazing 1500 years before Odysseus is said to have ruled the island.
A site in the north of the island at Pilicata, just outside Stavros, fits with
Homers Odyssey which states that the palace of Odysseus is perched
between three seas. From here can be seen on three sides Frikes Bay,
Aphales Bay and Polis Bay. It was under Odysseus that this kingdom
reached its prime sending 12 ships to the Trojan War.
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‘Ithaca worked its magic as ever’
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Journey north to where the island is joined at the isthmus of Aetos, only 620m
wide - the views here are awe-inspiring.
Turning right off the main road beyond the isthmus you climb even higher to see the
most spectacular views of the bay of Molos and Vathi. On to the monastery of Katharon
where from the bell tower there are unique views across the island. On the horizon can
be seen the peaks of Zakynthos, the eastern coast of Cephalonia and even, on a clear day,
the entrance to the Gulf of Patras.
Beyond the monastery is Anogi (Upper Land) set 500 metres above sea level. There
is a beautifully restored Byzantine church and just above, the ruins of a much older village
can still be seen. Around the village stand enormous rocks of implausible shapes, which
create an usual atmosphere.
The road reaches Stavros (literally ‘Crossroads’) the capital of the northern part of Ithaca.
The museum here houses a rare collection of artefacts and the curator, fluent in English,
has a rich knowledge of both classical and modern Ithaca. Take time to explore the
village and its tiny back streets. Otherwise just take a coffee, pull up a chair and watch
the world go by.
Close by are Polis Bay with its lovely port and the Cave of Loizos, the striking
village of Exogi (Out Land) set on the slopes of mount Neion and Frikes and Kioni two
charming small resorts ideal to while away a lazy afternoon.
Ithaca captures the most widely travelled visitor. Its lack of tourists, its
mythological past and its outstanding natural beauty make it an island not to be missed.
With its many mountain pathways linking historical villages and shores dotted with
small white jewelled beaches, it offers a destination, which you will find difficult to
leave. Ithaca will haunt you, as it did Odysseus, until, like him, you feel compelled to
return.
For our accommodation in Ithaca, we have chosen the stunning setting of Vathi
and the mythical area of the Cave of the Nymphs each typifying the special beauty and
tranquillity of this legendary island.
‘Ithaca is somewhere we will never tire of’
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‘And if you find her poor, Ithaca has not deceived you.
Wise as you have become, with so much experience,
you must already have understood what these Ithaca’s mean’
Kavafis
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VATHI
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‘The island gives us the
perfect rest we need.’
A
pproaching Vathi from the sea is truly memorable. Hidden from passing ships
it has one of the most spectacular harbour approaches in the world - through a large
outer bay to a smaller bay and then an inner bay where the town sits at the crux embraced
by mountains - it is a splendid place, one of the most idyllic seafront settings in Greece.
Set amongst enchanting scenery with red roofed, colour-washed houses clambering up
the slopes above the bay, it has an unpretentious charm. There are some lovely old
buildings, magnificent neoclassical mansions, a small cathedral and several churches –
one containing an icon of the crucifixion believed to be the work of El Greco.
Stroll around the harbour, search out the old fashioned shops in the back streets, have
coffee at one of the many kafeneions, a romantic dinner at a quiet taverna or, simply watch
the fishermen mend their nets - slowly the authentic but understated pleasures of this
place work themselves deeply into your system.
Four beaches are within easy reach with water taxis operating from the town
during high season – don’t miss the bay of Dexa where Homer tells us the Phaeacians
landed the sleeping Odysseus on his return to Ithaca.
There is Loutsa where the ruins of a French fort overlook the bay and narrow
tracks lead to even quieter coves. Over the headland is Skinos with a deserted pebble
beach and further east Sarakino Bay whose well-protected coves are ideal for swimming.
Northwest on a hillside above Dexa, lies the Cave of the Nymphs - here according to
Homer - Odysseus hid the gifts bestowed upon him by the Phaeacians.
Perahori, a small inland village three kilometres south of Vathi is built on a hill, 300 metres
above Vathi, it offers breathtaking views towards the sea and across the island. In this
beautiful village excellent quality olive oil and cheeses are produced – and - fine wine for
which the village is famous. A wine festival is held here at the end of August. Close by
Paleochora, literally meaning Old Village, was the capital of the island during middle
Ages. The houses were built of wood and stones with narrow windows, like little forts;
sadly only ruins now remain.
Further south, 10 kilometres from Vathi, is the Spring of Arethusa where Homer
tells us the swineherd Eumaes brought his pigs to drink. The landscape and sea views are
breathtaking but beware, the route is sheer and you are not advised to walk here alone.
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A brief taste of the Islands . . .
Fiskardo
The northern most village on the island that
retains its original Venetian architecture. Its
pastel-shaded buildings, that give the
place the feel of a chocolate box, have long
made Fiscardo a retreat for Europe’s rich and
fashionable.
Aghia Sofia
Some eight kilometres off a ‘main road’ Aghia Sofia is reached over possibly the best piece of
tarmac in Cephalonia to present one of the islands hidden gems; a delightful horseshoe bay of
crystal clear waters affording lovely views of Ithaca. Out of ‘high season’ there is peace and
tranquillity here – take some bread to feed the resident sea going ducks.
Assos
Unforgettable scenery and the towering remains of a Venetian fortress. It
is described as the most ‘atmospheric village’ on the island, clinging to a
small isthmus with picturesque houses overlooking the harbour. The centre
of the village is Paris Square, which offers relaxation in the shaded comfort
of its tavernas. A track leads from the village up to the fortress that guards
Assos. The Venetians built the fortress in the 1590’s to protect the inhabitants
from pirates. If you’re in the mood for romance, be in Assos at sunset to see
the sun go down behind the castle and the light streaming across the ruins.
Myrtos
This famous beach is the star of the island and recognised as one of the
finest in Greece. It was recently voted one of Europe’s most beautiful.
With its towering cliffs, turquoise water and spectacular views from the
coast road, it is not difficult to see why. A perfect afternoon suntrap,
seasonal sun beds and umbrellas are available for hire and there is a
canteen.
Argostoli
The capital of the island since 1757. Visit the Archaeological
Museum; it contains a remarkable collection of Mycenaean finds.
Also visit the Folk Art Museum whose aim is to preserve the
memory of the historical and social conditions, which prevailed
in Cephalonia before the 1953 earthquake. On the waterfront
there is a fresh produce market, open every day except Sunday,
worth a visit especially in the morning, there is a wonderful
array of fresh fruit and vegetables.
Xi
This large beach is 8km south of Lixouri and is
unusual for its red sand, which contrasts sharply
with the putty white cliffs behind. There is also a
type of rock here, glina that crumbles so easily you
can rub it into a paste – women use it as a cosmetic
treatment. There are seasonal tavernas; sun beds
and umbrellas can be hired on the beach.
The Monastery of Agios Gerasimos
The monastery located in the Omala valley is named after the patron
saint of the island. He was born in the Corinth area of Greece in 1507
into a wealthy family. In 1537 he went to the Holy Land where he
spent 12 years before returning to take up Holy Orders. He settled in
Zakynthos before coming to Cephalonia where he established the
nunnery that bears his name. He spent his monastic life here until his
death in August 1579. Main religious festivals are held on 16th August
and 20th October. The saint’s sarcophagus is taken in procession through
the streets. Traditionally people with various afflictions lie in the
path of the sarcophagus believing a cure is possible. The monastery
is much visited by Cephalonians and is a major centre for pilgrims from
all over Greece.
Mount Ainos
The Castle of Saint George
Firmly woven into the history of the island, there are references to
a castle having been here since the 11c. Some 15,000 people used to
live clustered around this castle, which was the islands capital and
seat of government until 1757. The impressive fortress looms high
on a hill above the village of Travliata. The ramparts, 10 – 15 metres
high offer fantastic views of the surrounding area.
The last preserve of the rare Cephalonica fir tree; towering over the
rest of Cephalonia these primeval firs give a whole new dimension to
the island. Here you can begin to imagine what Cephalonia looked like
500 years ago. The route to the top of the mountain is rough in places but
gratifying with some of the most spectacular views to be seen in
Cephalonia. The highest point is 1628 metres and rewards the intrepid
with a magnificent panorama; the whole area was declared a National
Park in 1962. There’s also plenty of wildlife: foxes, hares, weasels,
pine martens, hedgehogs and protected bird species, the golden eagle
and the osprey, as well as songbirds: blackbirds, goldfinches and larks
– you might even be lucky enough to spot the wild ponies.
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Frikes
The tiny village of Frikes is the perfect place to totally
unwind. Have lunch or visit Symposium Restaurant to see
the collection of black and white photographs that adorn their
walls and show how Frikes looked in times gone by. In high
season there are ferries from here to Fiscardo in Cephalonia
and some of the other islands.
Kioni
The picturesque village of Kioni on the north east coast has many examples of
original architecture.; there are also spectacular views towards the islands of
Astokos, Arkoudi, Meganisi and Lefkas.
The central church of the village is Aghios Ioanis which has many icons. Two large
festivities with live music and dance take place in Kioni, the 24th June is for
Aghios Ioanis and the 20th of July for Aghios Elias, which is a small church, one mile
from the three windmills, built on the rocks by the sea. On the 20th July, the
people of Kioni reach the small church with their fishing boats to attend the service.
Vathi
Vathi the capital and largest settlement on the island has one of the
most spectacular harbour approaches in the world - it is a splendid
place, one of the most idyllic seafront settings in Greece. Delightful
red roofed houses are set amongst enchanting scenery and the centre
is a photo opportunity of twisting streets and picturesque cafes. Stroll
around the harbour with its array of shops, have coffee at one of the
many kafeneions, visit Nikos Markatos in his beautiful shop full of
paintings and local crafts or, simply watch the fishermen mend their
nets.
Aghia Efimia
The pretty little village of Aghia Efimia is a natural harbour on
the north east coast. Sheltered by the mythical island of Ithaca,
it overlooks the calm waters of Sami Bay. Two beaches lead
gently down into the warm sea for perfect bathing. The crystal
clear Ionian is ideal here for swimming and snorkelling and
north of the village there are a host of tiny secluded coves; some
accessible only by the boats you can hire.
Melissani Lake
The lake is near the village of Karavomilos, 2km north of
Sami. The lake can only be explored by boat with the help
of a guide. You will float over the unimaginable colours
of the water in all the shades of peacock, blues and greens,
dazzling in the light from the opening above. It’s at its
most sensational when the sun is overhead.
Sami
Although Sami is a small town, it is an important harbour for
the island. The ships for Italy as well as the ferryboats that
connect Cephalonia with Patra and the other islands anchor
here. The Argostoli of the 1940’s was impeccably recreated
here for the shooting of the film Captain Corelli’s Mandolin.
Near to Sami are the beautiful Antisamos Bay and the
Monastery of Agrilion with views of Ithaca that make the
journey well worthwhile.
Poros
An attractive town with pebble beaches set amidst
mountain scenery. It has many bars and restaurants
and tends to become a bit crowded at the height of
the season. Ferries leave from here for Kyllini on
the mainland.
Drogarati Cave
Skala
Located around 4km southwest of Sami this cave is
estimated to be about 150 million years old. Over 120 steps
lead down the entrance shaft. It is remarkable for its
unique red stalagmites and concerts take place here from
time to time. Within the cave the Hall of Apotheosis is
named for its excellent acoustics. There is a balcony for
VIPs – the Royal Balcony – and the musicians play from a
deep hollow in the face of the stone, higher up among
the stalagmites.
A popular seaside resort on the southeastern extremity of the island. Pine
trees reach right down to the long, sand
and shingle beach where all types of
water sports are catered for.
. . . waiting for you to find and explore
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‘There is still much more
for us to explore on the
beautiful islands of
Cephalonia and Ithaca
we have all booked to
return next year.’
‘Beautiful views,
quiet, colourful,
sheltered beaches,
friendly people, the
list goes on.’
IslAnds
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DRE
‘A place of complete
tranquility; Homer
said that it was land
fit only for goats. I
am being fitted up for
my bell as I type.’
‘We will return in
the near future for
more physical and
emotional healing in
this great place.’
REAM
MAIN BROCHURE Dec 07.pmd
HOLIDAYS
27
27
1/14/2008, 11:35 AM
Oneira Ltd. 28 Hollybush Lane, Amblecote, Stourbridge. DY8 4HH
Telephone: 01384 377708 Facsimile: 01384 377762
E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.oneira.co.uk
Company Registered No. 3898181
Photography by Panayis Kavallieratos Cephalonia & Barry Cope
Our special thanks to
Dave, Vicki and David at Advanced Digital Imaging. Tel: 01902 561616
MAIN BROCHURE Dec 07.pmd
28
1/14/2008, 11:35 AM