Lassi, located just a few kilometers from Argostoli, is one of the most popular resort areas on Kefalonia Island, Greece. Known for its stunning sandy beaches, turquoise waters, and relaxed holiday atmosphere, Lassi attracts visitors seeking a beach-centered escape with convenient amenities and beautiful scenery.
Here’s a detailed guide on what to see and do in Lassi, Kefalonia.
What to See in Lassi
Makris Gialos Beach
Description: Makris Gialos is Lassi’s most famous beach, known for its long stretch of golden sand, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and lush green surroundings. It’s one of the best-organized beaches on the island.
What to Do: Relax on a sunbed, swim in the clear, shallow waters, or try one of the many water sports available, such as paddleboarding, jet-skiing, and parasailing. There are beach bars and tavernas where you can enjoy refreshments and snacks, making it an ideal spot to spend the whole day.
Platis Gialos Beach
Description: Adjacent to Makris Gialos, Platis Gialos is another beautiful sandy beach with a similar layout but a quieter ambiance. It’s popular among families and those looking for a more relaxed setting.
What to Do: Platis Gialos offers plenty of sunbeds, umbrellas, and a beach bar for refreshments. The calm waters are perfect for swimming and ideal for children, as the beach is shallower and quieter compared to its neighbor, Makris Gialos.
Gradakia Beach
Description: Gradakia Beach is a small, charming beach with fine white sand and unique rock formations that create secluded swimming areas and natural coves. It’s smaller and less busy than the main beaches, offering a more private experience.
What to Do: Swim in the clear waters, explore the rocky coves, or relax on a sunbed. The beach’s small size and unique rock formations make it ideal for those looking for a peaceful retreat close to Lassi’s amenities.
Paliostafida Beach
Description: Paliostafida Beach is a quieter beach set in a sheltered cove surrounded by green hills and rocky cliffs. It’s located near some of Lassi’s hotels, making it a convenient choice for those staying in the area.
What to Do: Enjoy the tranquil atmosphere, swim in the shallow waters, or rent a kayak for a peaceful paddle. The calm setting makes it an ideal place for a relaxing beach day away from the busier spots.
Fanari Lighthouse (Saint Theodore Lighthouse)
Description: The Fanari Lighthouse, also known as Saint Theodore Lighthouse, is a unique, circular structure with Doric-style columns, built in 1829 by the British. It’s situated on a scenic peninsula near Lassi and offers beautiful views of the coastline.
What to Do: Visit the lighthouse around sunset for breathtaking views over the Ionian Sea. It’s a popular spot for photographers and a peaceful place to take a walk along the coastline.
What to Do in Lassi
Water Sports and Activities
Lassi is known for its organized beaches, which provide various water sports and activities.
Water Sports at Makris Gialos: The main beach, Makris Gialos, has a range of water sports, including jet skiing, parasailing, banana boating, and paddleboarding. The clear, calm waters make it ideal for trying out new activities.
Snorkeling: The rocky areas around beaches like Gradakia and Paliostafida provide a good environment for snorkeling, where you can spot fish and observe the underwater landscape.
Explore the Koutavos Lagoon and De Bosset Bridge
Lassi is just a short distance from Argostoli, making it easy to visit the scenic Koutavos Lagoon and De Bosset Bridge. These landmarks offer a relaxing, natural setting and are ideal for a morning walk.
What to Do: Walk along the De Bosset Bridge for panoramic views of the lagoon, observe local wildlife, or take a leisurely stroll around the lagoon’s paths. It’s also a great spot for birdwatching, as the lagoon is home to a variety of bird species.
Visit the Katavothres Watermills and Sinkholes
Description: The Katavothres is a fascinating natural phenomenon where seawater flows inland through sinkholes. This unique site, located near Lassi, has attracted interest for centuries.
What to Do: Visit the watermills and sinkholes to observe this geological phenomenon and learn about the mystery behind it. There’s also a scenic cafe nearby where you can relax with a coffee while enjoying views of the sea.
Dining at Local Tavernas
Lassi has a wide range of dining options, from traditional Greek tavernas to modern restaurants, offering a variety of fresh local dishes and international flavors.
What to Try: Sample traditional Greek dishes such as kleftiko (slow-cooked lamb), moussaka, fresh seafood, and Kefalonian meat pie. Many restaurants also serve local Robola wine, produced from a grape variety native to Kefalonia.
Dining Spots: Many of Lassi’s tavernas are located along the main road, offering outdoor seating where you can enjoy dinner under the stars. Some also have views of the sea, making for a beautiful dining experience.
Walk or Cycle Along the Scenic Coastline
Lassi is located along a picturesque stretch of coast, with a network of trails and paths that offer fantastic views over the Ionian Sea.
What to Do: Walk or rent a bicycle to explore the coastal paths. The area around Fanari Lighthouse has scenic trails where you can enjoy views of the coastline, rocky cliffs, and turquoise waters. Walking along these paths at sunset is particularly beautiful.
Take a Day Trip to Argostoli
Lassi’s close proximity to Argostoli, Kefalonia’s capital, makes it easy to enjoy a day trip to explore its sights and attractions.
What to See in Argostoli: Stroll along the waterfront, visit the Archaeological Museum of Kefalonia, walk across the historic De Bosset Bridge, or shop along Lithostroto Street, Argostoli’s main shopping street.
What to Do: Enjoy lunch at a waterside taverna, visit the bustling fish and fruit markets, and, if you’re up early, look for Loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta caretta) near the harbor, where they often swim near fishing boats.
Attend Local Festivals and Events
During the summer months, Lassi and the surrounding area host a variety of festivals and cultural events that allow visitors to experience Kefalonian traditions.
Local Festivals: The Feast of Saint Gerasimos, Kefalonia’s patron saint, is celebrated with large religious ceremonies, music, and feasting. The event is held in August and attracts locals and visitors alike.
Traditional Music Nights: Many tavernas in Lassi feature live Greek music nights, with traditional songs and dances, creating a festive atmosphere. It’s a great way to immerse yourself in local culture while enjoying dinner.
Explore Nearby Villages
Lassi is a convenient base for exploring some of Kefalonia’s most beautiful villages and natural attractions.
Assos: Known for its charming Venetian architecture, Assos is a picturesque village on the northwest coast, about an hour’s drive from Lassi. The Assos Castle offers incredible views, and the village’s waterfront is perfect for a leisurely lunch.
Fiscardo: Fiscardo is a cosmopolitan harbor village with upscale shops, waterfront cafes, and preserved Venetian buildings. It’s about an hour and a half from Lassi and makes for a perfect day trip.
Myrtos Beach: One of Greece’s most famous beaches, Myrtos Beach is located about 40 minutes from Lassi. Known for its dramatic scenery with white pebbles and turquoise waters, Myrtos Beach is a must-visit for beach lovers.
Practical Information for Visiting Lassi
Getting Around: Lassi is compact and easy to explore on foot, especially along the main road and coastal paths. For beach-hopping or visiting nearby villages, consider renting a car or scooter, as public transportation options are limited.
Accommodation: Lassi offers a range of accommodations, from budget hotels and family-run guesthouses to upscale resorts and apartments. Many hotels are within walking distance of the main beaches, making it easy to enjoy the sea without needing transportation.
Best Time to Visit: Lassi is busiest in the summer months (June to August) when the weather is hot and sunny. For a quieter experience, consider visiting in May, September, or early October, when the weather is still warm, and the crowds are smaller.
Summary
Lassi is a fantastic destination for those looking to enjoy a classic beach holiday with easy access to the sea, local dining, and Kefalonian culture. From the beautiful sands of Makris Gialos and Platis Gialos to the unique charm of Gradakia and Paliostafida beaches, Lassi’s coastline is ideal for relaxation and adventure alike. Visitors can indulge in delicious Greek cuisine, enjoy water sports, explore nearby attractions like the Fanari Lighthouse and Katavothres, and take day trips to Kefalonia’s other stunning villages and beaches.
Whether you’re a beach lover, a foodie, or a nature enthusiast, Lassi’s laid-back ambiance, combined with its range of activities, makes it a perfect base for exploring Kefalonia Island.