Melissani Lake & Myrtos Beach Relaxation

If you’re visiting Cephalonia, this tour offers a taste of the island’s most iconic sights—Melissani Lake, an underground marvel, and the famous Myrtos Beach, renowned for its turquoise waters and stunning scenery. Priced at around $69.39 per person, it lasts approximately five and a half hours, including transportation, guiding, and entrance fees.

What we particularly like about this experience is the chance to glide through crystal-clear underground waters in a small boat—an intimate way to experience the cave’s natural beauty—and the opportunity to unwind on one of Greece’s most photographable beaches. The journey is comfortable, with air-conditioned transport and a friendly local guide who makes sure you’re in the loop.

However, a word of caution: timing can be unpredictable. Lines at Melissani Lake can be long during peak season, and the visit’s short duration might leave some wishing for more time at either site.

This tour suits travelers looking for a well-organized visit to two of Cephalonia’s top attractions, especially those who appreciate guided insights and are comfortable with modest physical activity. If you’re after an in-depth exploration or more relaxed beach time, you might want to consider longer, more flexible options.

Key Points

• Efficient and Scenic: Combines two must-see sights in a manageable timeframe.
• Expert Guide: Knowledgeable guides like Christina enhance the experience with local insights.
• Comfortable Transit: Air-conditioned vehicle makes the long drives between sites pleasant.
• Crowd Consideration: During peak times, expect queues and brief visit windows.
• Limited Beach Time: About 1.5 to 2 hours at Myrtos Beach; weather or safety considerations may alter plans.
• Value for Money: Entrance fees and guiding included, providing a straightforward experience at a fair price.

A Closer Look: What the Tour Entails

Starting from your pickup point in Argostoli or nearby, the journey to Melissani Lake begins with around three hours of scenic driving—an opportunity to enjoy the island’s landscape in comfort. The guide provides commentary along the way, helping you understand the area’s geology and history.

Melissani Lake: A Natural Wonder

Arriving at Melissani Cave, you’ll step onto a 12-person rowboat with a boatman who gently paddles you through the underground lake. The crystal-clear waters and spectacular lighting make this a visual treat. The cave’s natural light filters in, creating a mesmerizing interplay of blue hues.

Be aware that boat rides last around 10-15 minutes, and during busy times, queues can extend, making the actual sightseeing shorter than anticipated—some reviews mention only a few minutes in the cave. Visitors are not permitted to swim to preserve the environment, but that doesn’t diminish the awe of the setting.

Myrtos Beach: A Slice of Paradise

After the cave, the tour moves to Myrtos Beach, one of Greece’s most iconic beaches. Here, you’ll have approximately 1.5 to 2 hours to relax, swim, or simply marvel at the white pebbles and vibrant waters. It’s a stunning spot that often appears in travel magazines, with a backdrop of towering cliffs.

Some reviews mention the rocky shoreline, so packing water shoes and beach essentials is advisable. The tour may include a quick photo stop at a lookout before descending to the beach, though actual time on the sand is limited, especially if weather conditions or safety considerations prompt a change of plan.

Additional Highlights and Caveats

• Rustic harbor of Ag. Efimia: While not a main stop, it’s part of the scenic drive and offers a glimpse of local fishing life.
• Historical tidbits: Your guide will share insights about the area’s geological and cultural background—adding context to your visit.

What Travelers Say

Reviews paint a picture of a generally positive experience. Many praise the guides’ knowledge and the stunning scenery, with some describing Myrtos Beach as “wonderful” and Melissani Lake as “amazing to see.”

One reviewer noted that the guide Christina was “great,” making the trip fun and informative. Others appreciated the good value for the price, especially given that entrance fees and transportation are included.

However, there are some cautionary points. A few travelers mention long waits at Melissani, sometimes reducing their time at Myrtos Beach. One reviewer pointed out that English communication was a bit challenging, and during peak season, crowds can impact the quality of the visit.

The Notable Downsides

• Expect queues, especially at Melissani Lake, which can cut into your beach time.
• The boat ride is brief, and in high season, the cave visit might only last a few minutes.
• The duration at each site can feel rushed, so if you prefer more relaxed, unhurried exploration, this might not be your ideal tour.

Transportation and Logistics

The tour uses air-conditioned vehicles, making the roughly three-hour drive between stops comfortable. Pickup and drop-off are included, simplifying logistics, especially for those unfamiliar with the island.

The small group size (maximum 45 travelers) promotes a more personal experience, but during busy season, the crowd at Melissani can be substantial, leading to some waiting.

Practical Tips

• Arrive prepared: wear water shoes, bring a swimsuit, beach towel, and sunscreen.
• Be punctual: the tour is time-sensitive, especially at the cave.
• Weather considerations: if the weather is poor, the beach visit may be shortened or replaced.
• Timing: booking at least 25 days in advance is recommended to secure a spot during high season.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a well-organized, guided visit to Cephalonia’s highlights without the hassle of independent transportation. It suits those who enjoy short, impactful visits with knowledgeable guides, picturesque scenery, and a taste of authentic Greek natural beauty.

If you’re a couple or small group seeking efficient sightseeing combined with relaxing beach time, this tour offers a good balance. Conversely, if you prefer more time at each site or a less hurried pace, consider other options or private tours.

Final Thoughts

To sum it up, this tour from Avalon Travel offers a solid introduction to Cephalonia’s most iconic sights. It’s a good value for the price, especially when you consider that entrance fees, transport, and guiding are covered.

While the short visits and potential queues might leave some wishing for more time at each location, many travelers find the experience delightful and memorable, thanks to the stunning scenery and the professionalism of the guides.

It’s a great choice for those visiting the island for a limited time, cruise passengers, or anyone eager to tick two of Cephalonia’s most photogenic sites off their list. Just remember, if you’re craving a more leisurely pace or more in-depth exploration, you might want to look into longer, more flexible options.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are included along with air-conditioned vehicle travel between the sites.

How long is the boat ride at Melissani Lake?
The boat ride lasts approximately 10-15 minutes, with the exact time depending on crowds and queues.

Can I swim in Melissani Lake?
No, swimming isn’t allowed to help preserve the natural environment and protect the site.

How much time do I get at Myrtos Beach?
You’ll have between 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the tour schedule and conditions.

What should I bring?
Water shoes, swimsuit, change of clothes, beach towel, sunscreen, and any personal essentials.

Will the itinerary change due to weather?
Yes, if weather conditions make visiting Myrtos Beach unsafe, the stop may be shortened or replaced with an alternative.

Are there long waits or crowds?
During peak season, queues at Melissani can be long, which may limit your time at the cave. The guide works to keep things efficient but prepare for some waiting.

This tour is a practical, scenic, and budget-friendly way to experience the highlights of Cephalonia—perfect for travelers who want quick access to natural beauty and stunning vistas with the support of a knowledgeable guide.