What's the weather like in Kefalonia in June?
Summer has arrived and June marks the start of the main holiday season on the beautiful Greek island of Kefalonia. Tourists start flocking in at this time of year, coming from all over the world to enjoy its fine weather and local culture.
Temperature
Temperatures average at 23°C on this Ionian island, climbing to highs of 26°C and night-time temperatures rarely fall below 16°C. Although temperatures are very warm, this time of year marks the start of the meltemi season when regional winds blow in from the Aegean Sea, usually from the afternoon until the evening. Wind speeds are usually no more than a moderate breeze, but will pick up as the month progresses.
The island has reached sweltering record daytime highs of 35°C during June. Average temperatures can typically rise a remarkable 5°C from the beginning to the end of the month, while the number of sunshine hours per day rises again to 13 hours. The lowest June temperature on record is 12°C, at the beginning of the month.
Rainfall
June is one of the driest months on this island, along with July and August. Rainfall drops drastically from May and visitors will see just 5mm of rain over five days. If rain appears it could be in the form of a thunderstorm, so pack an umbrella just in case. However by the end of the month the chance of rain is minimal, occurring in just 6% of days.
Sea Temperature
The sea temperature rises an incredible three degrees month on month to 23°C, meaning you can head to one of Kefalonia's many award winning beaches for adventurous water sports, a relaxing dip or simply to work on your tan. However, as skies are usually mostly clear, visitors should be extra attentive and apply sunscreen with a high SPF to avoid burning. Try to stay out of the sun during the hottest parts of the day. Make sure you know when this is by checking the local weather forecast.
Hotels in Kefalonia in June
Villa Ambeli
Villa Ambeli in Old Skala is a three bedroom property that combines contemporary and traditional Greek influences. Able to sleep up to six people, it is positioned high above the resort of Skala, enjoying impressive south-facing mountain and sea views over Kefalonia and the surrounding Greek islands.
A modern design is blended with traditional Greek building materials, including stone, hardwood, wickerwork and wrought iron, to create an attractive, light and airy villa for your stay. Spend your days lying out on the vast sun terrace, which sits alongside a wonderful infinity edged swimming with hydro massage jets. Grill fresh meals on your purpose built barbecue and relax in the al-fresco dining area. Inside the villa, you will find two floors with an open plan lounge area with TV and music system, a fully equipped kitchen, two en-suite twin bedrooms and a double bedroom with a private balcony and sea view. Throughout, large windows and glass doors will mean you can appreciate the panoramic views wherever you are.
Odyssey Hotel
If you're after a high-end resort, the four-star Odyssey Hotel in Aghia Efimia could be the perfect place for you. With an on-site spa and stunning views, its accommodation offers spacious bedrooms and lounge areas with enviable views from their individual balconies. The marble bathrooms come with hydro-massage jets, luxury toiletries and bathrobes for the ultimate in decadence. Each guest room's name and decoration is inspired by different characters from Homer's famous poem, The Odyssey. The resort boasts a fresh water swimming pool with sun-loungers to laze away your day, as you order drinks and snacks from the pool bar. There's a sauna, fitness centre and spa offering a range of treatments, while for kids there's a fun children's playground, making it ideal for all the family.
Beaches in Kefalonia in June
Skala Beach
The long, sandy Skala Beach is a family friendly destination on the southern tip of Kefalonia in Skala fishing village. There is a range of bars, cafés and restaurants along the four mile seafront, as well as water sports and excursions on offer. From this beach you can spot neighbouring islands including the Pelopponese and Zakynthos. The sea shore gently shelves down, so it's good for children to play in, while the length of the beach means it rarely gets overcrowded.
Lagadakia Beach
Fans of rugged beaches will enjoy Lagadakia Beach, a pebbled cove surrounded by barren, exposed rock formations. Located 25 miles west of Argostoli, the bay offers excellent snorkelling with its deep, clean waters and pebbly seafloor. It's a secluded and tranquil beach, perfect for relaxing with your loved ones. Visitors should bring water and snacks, as there are no facilities in this remote area. Unlike the popular beaches, you won't find sunbeds and umbrellas here, but the rocks provide natural shade
Bars and Restaurants
The Olive Lounge
The Olive Lounge in Lourdas is one of the top restaurants on the island with its impressive vista over the Ionian Sea towards Zakynthos and in the shadow of Mount Enos. Savour the food and the views as you dine al fresco or choose a table indoors if it's a cooler evening. Enjoy a delectable menu of Greek and international cuisine, with freshly caught fish and daily dishes prepared using local products.
Old Times
For vegetarian visitors looking for a romantic restaurant, the Old Times restaurant could be the ideal venue. Open for lunch, dinner and evening drinks, it offers a well-prepared and innovative menu with twists on Greek and Mediterranean dishes, including a range of vegetarian options. Outdoor seats are available, but make sure you come well dressed as formal attire is expected.
Things to do in Kefalonia in June
Ithaca
Take a short ferry ride to Kefalonia's neighbouring island of Ithaca for a day trip to this picturesque island steeped in legend. Literary lovers will be fascinated by its mythical history as the home of King Odysseus from Homer's 'The Odyssey' and sites including the Cave of the Nymph. Meanwhile, this peaceful island has plenty for adventurous types, boasting a magnificent 17 mile mountain range ideal for hikers and mountain bikers, as well as scuba diving and sea kayaking. There is also a wide choice of beaches to suit all tastes.
Vathy
Museum fans should pay a visit to the island's capital of Vathy. Sitting in a long, deep bay, this idyllic port is nestled amid steep hills on three sides. It houses the Archaeological Museum of Ithaca and the Folklore and Cultural Museum of Ithaca, which portrays island life over the years and displays photographs of the 1953 earthquake which devastated the area. The centre of Vathy's bay contains the tiny little island of Lazaretto, a former sanatorium and prison.
