Holidays to Peratata put you in the island’s former capital, and next-door to the current one. It’s a traditional village that stays out of the spotlight, but keeps the island’s best bits in easy reach.
Turned-back tradition
Head south-east out of Kefalonia’s capital, and you’ll stumble upon Peratata. This place decided to take a back seat in the 18th century – it was the island’s capital before handing over the crown to nearby Argostoli. Its first-rate location hasn’t changed, though – this place sits on the slopes of Mountain Ainos, the island’s tallest mountain, which means eye-catching vistas. The village serves as an example of a traditional Greek way of living – stone buildings are scattered around, which make a home for its 500 residents. And, things are kept simple with a solitary café, a single shop and a traditional taverna.
Doorstep sightseeing
This pint-sized place puts some of the island’s must-see sights on your doorstep – it’s home to ruins of a 16th-century fort. St George’s Castle was originally built by the Byzantines in the 12th century, and then re-built by the Venetians four centuries later. Plus, it’s got a hilltop location – it serves as a great lookout point for panoramic views across Kefalonia’s countryside.