Things To Do in Skala

One of the best ways to see Greek traditions in action is to attend a summer religious festival. This one takes place in the Panagia Agrilion monastery, a beautiful building in Sami that dates back to the 15^th century. Events begin with a church ceremony, which is followed up with plenty of old-fashioned feasting, music, dancing and wine.

Skala is home to around 20 restaurants, most of which are in the main street. Some dish up international classics like crepes and pizzas, but for the most part you’ll find traditional Greek home cooking, with an emphasis on locally caught fish. Look out for bianco, a garlicky fish stew, or swordfish in ouzo sauce. Grilled souvlaki, or proper Greek kebabs, are another speciality.

Skala dishes up the full range of watersports. In the main street there’s a diving centre that offers programmes for all levels, as well as organised snorkelling trips. And back on the beach you’ll find everything from paragliding and jet skiing to windsurfing and pedalos. You can also hop on one of the glass-bottomed boat rides to nearby islets.

Word of mouth has spread about this traditional taverna, overlooking the sea. You’ll find smiling service and hearty dishes like lamb shank and bekri meze, otherwise known as drunkard’s meze, which is pork cooked in wine. Be sure to leave room for the cheesecake topped with locally grown sour cherries. To finish, there’s usually a brandy on the house.

You won’t beat the setting of this beachfront restaurant, café and bar. It sits in a stunning garden, complete with pine trees and swimming pool. During the day it serves up snacks and meals, while evenings are all about dinner and cocktails. You can order a classic Mai Tai, then bag a lounger by the pool, or take a seat in the contemporary lounge bar.

Skala isn’t a party town, but it’s home to some lively bars and tavernas. It’s not hard to find them, either – most are in the main street or just off it. Many evenings see some kind of live entertainment, whether that’s a band or traditional bouzouki music. There’s also a well-known open-air nightclub on the road to Poros – the admission price includes a free drink.

This festival is dedicated to Kefalonia’s much-loved – and impressively-bearded – patron saint, Gerasimos. Expect music, bell ringing, flower-packed churches and a town-wide procession decked out with flags bearing Gerasimos’ Santa-like visage.