SKALA
Area: Kefalonia
Country: Greece


Location:
On the SE coast, 30 miles SE of Argostoli. 20 miles SE of airport.

Telephone code from UK:
30 26710

Position:
Flanked by hills to the N.

Description:
A Greek village which has turned resort. Its main attraction is its long expanse of fine shingle and sand, gently shelving into the sea, with isolated coves in the surrounding area. There is a small high street 100 yards from the beach with shops and tavernas and streets branching off. Along the coast, Potamaki Beach is a haven for the rare loggerhead turtles, and this has now been declared a conservation area. Night-time "turtle watches" are organised for those who wish to observe the creatures without threatening their survival. Historic sites include ruins of Roman buildings with lovely mosaics. A mile out of town archaeologists discovered a 7th century BC temple of Apollo, parts of which can be seen in the Argostoli museum. The 5-mile walk along the coast path to Poros is popular.

Suitability:
Middlemarket families and couples; nature lovers.

Accommodation:
Mainly pensions and self-catering.

Beach:
Skala Beach is sand and shingle, with plenty of umbrellas and sunbeds for hire as well as good water sports facilities in high season.

Entertainments:
Daytime: beach life, walking, excursions. Nightlife: based around the tavernas.

Eating:
Caters specifically for the British tourist in its selection of Anglo-Greek food. There are a few tavernas and cafes.

Public-transport:
Buses run irregularly to the capital of Argostoli. There is only one taxi based at Skala. Car hire is available.

Local-excursions:
Island tours, including Drogorati Cave and Lake Melissani; S villages, including St George's castle, St Andreas Monastery and a winery; Greek night at Argostoli bouzouki club; cruise to Poros; Marine Odyssey tour.