The Melissani lake cave is close to the resort of
Sami on the east coast of
Kefalonia. It would take around 40 minutes to make the drive over from the capital
Argostoli which is about 28km away.
The lake, or at least part of it is inside the cave, a section from the top of the cave has collapsed leaving an opening that bathes the inside in light, this is particularly amazing at around mid day as the sun is directly above and the reflection from the lake water covers the cave wall in blue light.
The tour is done by boat that is rowed by a local, first you are taken round the open air cave and then down a small channel where the guide has to pull the boat through using a rope that’s attached to the cave wall. The second section is a large cavern that has numerous big stalactites and stalagmites.
The Melissani lake caves have crystal clear waters that sometimes make the boats look like they’re floating in mid air, the photos from the caves can be spectacular so don’t forget to take your camera and selfie stick with you.
The entrance fee is 7€ for adults and the tour lasts around 10-15 minutes. The best time to visit is close to mid day but this is also the busiest time so be prepared to wait 20-30 minutes or even more if a couple of busses arrive before you. There’s plenty of parking available outside the caves.
