Frikes is the nearest village, harbour and often home for the night for sailing flotillas. There are two Mini markets one of which specialises in “home food” too, further some souvenir shops and a number of good tavernas. There is also one bar with a license for music, so if you fancy a night on the town- that’s the place to go.
During the summer there is a ferry to and from Lefkas and Kefalonia, you can rent small motor boats or scooters to explore the island as you like. During August the pre-reservation of a scooter is recommended.
Just around the corner and in easy walking distance you find the first bathing coves. Kioni, a small and romantic postcard harbour is just s few minutes by bike or car away.
Stavros, the thriving capital of the North is just 4km uphill. There as well as in Kioni you can find more Tavernas, shops, and a pharmacy, also the next cash point is in Stavros.
Those looking for a different beach for every day: You can try Afales bay a few minutes drive to the North of the villa, Kioni, or Poli bay which is situated just below Stavros. Here, apart from a small fishing harbour, are more motorboats for rent and a taverna right on the beach.
There are many more beaches and bays towards the South of the island and in the South itself, too many to be listed here.
All beaches are pebble beaches, some like Afales are stony. Swimming shoes or sandals might be a good idea for those with sensitive feet, they are a good protection from the needles of the odd see urchin too. The water at most beaches is beautifully clear, therefore snorkelling is enjoyable.
If walking is your thing: You can find encouragement and guided walks here.
There is an island bus that can bring you South to explore Vathi and the South of the island, but it returns to the North rather early. Alternatively you can book a taxi or revert to scooters or hire a rental car from Vathi. Rental cars can be booked for example from Alpha cars in Vathi (click here).
Rental cars can be hired from Kefalonia airport too, make sure you make an early reservation and state that you want to take the car to Ithaka.
