Things To Do in Svoronata

The shops in Argostoli – just a 15-minute drive away – really step things up after sunset. There are heaps of one-of-a-kind outlets here, including a shop showcasing jewellery that starred in the locally-made film Captain Corelli’s Mandolin. If you fancy a spot of late-night shopping, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays are the days for your diary.

Evenings in Svoronata are whiled away in the tavernas. Most of them are easygoing Greek places, although one – Crazy George’s – reels in the British holidaymakers. You won’t miss a matchday here, thanks to the widescreen TV and expat regulars.

The large, laid-back town of Lixouri is within easy day-tripping distance. Its beaches are an eye-catching bunch – especially Lepada, with its rock pools and sunset-coloured sands. The town is also home to a taverna-framed main square, a lighthouse and a museum. To reach Lixouri from Svoronata, just drive 15 minutes to Argostoli and jump on one of the ferries idling in the harbour.

A handful of tavernas sprinkle Svoronata village. They’re all family-run places and follow the same theme – all-smiles-waiting staff, a family-run kitchen, and ever-changing seasonal menus. If you’re not sure what to order, go for the meze. These tiny plates usually feature warm flatbread, vine leaf-wrapped rice, and parcels of filo pastry stuffed with spinach and feta cheese.

Ai Helis Beach is a hit with volleyball fans, thanks to the sheltering headlands and super soft sands. The volleyball nets are just a ball’s throw away from a snack bar and a spread of sunloungers, too. The 84 steps back up to the car park might be a bit hard on the legs, but it’s worth it for the bird's-eye-view finale.