Poros, a picturesque village on the southeastern coast of Kefalonia, Greece, is known for its beautiful beaches, scenic port, and traditional Greek charm. Nestled between lush green mountains and the turquoise waters of the Ionian Sea, Poros is a gateway to exploring both the island and nearby destinations, as it connects Kefalonia with the Greek mainland.
This serene village offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, historic sites, and relaxation, making it an ideal spot for a peaceful and immersive holiday experience. Here’s a detailed guide on what to see and do in Poros, Kefalonia.
What to See in Poros
Poros Harbor
Description: Poros Harbor is the heart of the village, where fishing boats, yachts, and ferries create a lively yet relaxed atmosphere. The harbor connects Kefalonia to mainland Greece, specifically to the port of Kyllini, making it a strategic and bustling spot.
What to Do: Take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront, watching the boats come and go, and enjoy the view of the surrounding mountains. The harbor area is lined with cafes, tavernas, and small shops, where you can enjoy a coffee, a meal, or buy local goods. It’s an especially lovely place to spend time in the evening as the sun sets and the lights reflect off the water.
Poros Gorge (Poros Gorge and Ravine)
Description: The Poros Gorge, known as “Vohinas Gorge,” is a natural wonder just outside the village. The gorge features steep cliffs, lush vegetation, and unique rock formations. The sight of the tall, narrow cliffs on each side makes for a dramatic and scenic landscape.
What to Do: Hike along the gorge for beautiful views of the rock formations and surrounding nature. The trail is relatively easy, making it suitable for most visitors, and offers an immersive experience into Kefalonia’s wild landscapes. The gorge is also home to diverse flora and fauna, so nature enthusiasts will enjoy spotting local plants and wildlife along the way.
Church of Virgin Mary (Panagia of Atros Monastery)
Description: Located on a hill above Poros, the Monastery of Panagia of Atros is the oldest monastery on Kefalonia, dating back to the 8th century. The monastery is set at an elevation of about 500 meters, providing breathtaking views of Poros and the Ionian Sea.
What to Do: Hike or drive up to the monastery to admire its historical architecture, enjoy the serene atmosphere, and take in panoramic views of the coastline. The hike is a bit challenging but rewarding, especially at sunrise or sunset when the views are particularly stunning. The monastery is a spiritual place, and visitors can learn about its history and role in Kefalonian culture.
Archaeological Sites and Ancient Graves of Tzanata
Description: Just a short drive from Poros, the ancient graves of Tzanata are one of Kefalonia’s most significant archaeological discoveries. These Mycenaean-era tombs date back to around 1400 BC and are believed to have belonged to a noble family.
What to Do: Visit the site to see the large, beehive-shaped tomb, which is similar in style to those found in Mycenae. This historic site offers a glimpse into Kefalonia’s ancient past and provides insight into the island’s early civilization. Information boards explain the history and significance of the tombs, making it an interesting stop for history enthusiasts.
Kaminia Beach (Mounda Beach)
Description: Located just south of Poros, Kaminia Beach is a beautiful stretch of soft sand and shallow waters. It is also known as Mounda Beach and is famous for being a nesting site for the endangered Loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta caretta).
What to Do: Relax on the sandy beach, swim in the calm waters, and, if you’re visiting during the nesting season (May to August), observe the areas marked off to protect turtle nests. Many visitors find this beach to be peaceful and family-friendly due to its shallow waters. Remember to follow guidelines to avoid disturbing the turtles and nests.
What to Do in Poros
Relax at Beautiful Beaches Near Poros
Poros is surrounded by several picturesque beaches, each offering a unique setting and tranquil waters.
Ragia Beach: This pebble beach is located near Poros village and offers a quiet and relaxing atmosphere. The water is clear and calm, ideal for swimming, and the beach has a few trees for natural shade. There’s also a taverna nearby where you can grab a snack or refreshment.
Limenia Beach: Just a short walk from Poros, Limenia is a small and quiet beach, perfect for those looking for a secluded spot. With its crystal-clear waters and scenic setting, it’s an ideal beach for snorkeling and relaxation.
Hiking and Nature Walks
Poros’s lush surroundings and scenic trails make it an ideal destination for hiking and nature walks, with several routes that offer stunning views of the island.
Poros to Skala Trail: For a scenic hike, take the coastal trail from Poros to the nearby village of Skala. The trail follows the coastline, offering beautiful views of the sea and cliffs. It’s a moderately easy hike, suitable for most fitness levels.
Hiking Around Poros Gorge: The gorge is a popular spot for nature walks and offers trails that allow you to experience the dramatic landscapes up close. This hike is excellent for photographers and nature enthusiasts who want to see the rugged beauty of Kefalonia.
Enjoy Traditional Greek Dining at Local Tavernas
Poros has a variety of tavernas and restaurants offering authentic Greek and Kefalonian dishes, many with stunning views over the harbor and sea.
What to Try: Sample local dishes such as Kefalonian meat pie, lamb kleftiko, moussaka, and fresh seafood like grilled octopus and calamari. Many of the tavernas in Poros use fresh, local ingredients, including herbs, vegetables, and olive oil produced on the island.
Dining Spots: The best dining spots are located along the waterfront, where you can enjoy the sunset and listen to the gentle waves. Many restaurants offer outdoor seating, creating a relaxed and romantic atmosphere, especially in the evening.
Take a Boat Trip to Ithaca and Nearby Beaches
Poros’s location on the southeastern coast makes it an ideal starting point for boat trips to Ithaca and other nearby beaches and coves.
Boat Trips to Ithaca: Join a boat tour to Ithaca, the legendary home of Odysseus. These trips usually include stops at charming Ithacan villages like Vathy and Kioni, as well as secluded beaches for swimming and snorkeling. Ithaca’s quiet beauty and rich history make it an excellent day trip destination.
Boat Rentals: Rent a boat from Poros to explore the surrounding coastline at your own pace. Boat rentals are available in Poros and provide an opportunity to discover hidden coves, peaceful beaches, and even a few sea caves along Kefalonia’s coast.
Attend Local Festivals and Events
Poros hosts several cultural and religious festivals throughout the year, allowing visitors to experience traditional Greek celebrations.
Religious Festivals: Many of Kefalonia’s religious holidays are celebrated in Poros with church services, processions, music, and feasts. One of the most significant celebrations is the Feast of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary on August 15, which brings locals together for festivities.
Summer Events: During the summer, Kefalonia holds music festivals, traditional dance performances, and other cultural events. These gatherings are a fun way to experience Greek music and dancing and are often held in Poros’s town square or near the harbor.
Visit Skala Village
Located just a short drive from Poros, Skala is a popular resort village with a lovely sandy beach and several historic sites.
What to See in Skala: Visit the Roman Villa of Skala, known for its beautiful mosaic floors, and enjoy the lively beach, where you can find plenty of water sports and beachside cafes. Skala is a bit more tourist-oriented than Poros but offers a nice mix of relaxation and activities.
Dining and Shopping: Skala also has a range of restaurants and souvenir shops, making it a great spot to explore for an afternoon. The beach is long and sandy, providing ample space for sunbathing, swimming, and beach activities.
Explore Local Shops and Markets
Poros has a few shops selling local products and souvenirs, including handmade crafts, olive oil, and honey.
What to Buy: Look for local honey, olive oil, herbs, and handcrafted items. These products make wonderful souvenirs and gifts and offer a taste of Kefalonian craftsmanship and natural flavors.
Shopping Spots: Most shops are located along the main street and near the harbor. You’ll find small boutiques, family-run stores, and stands selling fresh local produce.
Practical Information for Visiting Poros
Getting Around: Poros is best explored on foot, but renting a car or scooter is recommended if you plan to visit nearby beaches, Skala, or other attractions on Kefalonia. The village is well-connected by ferry to the Greek mainland, making it a convenient base for exploring both the island and nearby areas.
Accommodation: Poros offers a range of accommodations, from small hotels and family-run guesthouses to holiday apartments. Many options are close to the beach or the harbor, providing beautiful sea views and easy access to the village’s main attractions.
Best Time to Visit: Summer (June to September) is the best time for beach activities, boat trips, and festivals. Spring (April to June) and early fall (September to October) are also pleasant, with mild temperatures and fewer tourists, ideal for hiking and exploring.
Summary
Poros is a charming village that offers visitors a peaceful escape with a mix of natural beauty, history, and authentic Greek hospitality. With its scenic harbor, nearby beaches like Kaminia and Ragia, the historic Panagia of Atros Monastery, and the dramatic Poros Gorge, there’s plenty to explore and enjoy. Whether you’re relaxing on a beach, hiking through Kefalonia’s rugged landscapes, or taking a boat trip to nearby Ithaca, Poros provides a memorable experience on the beautiful island of Kefalonia.