Melissani Cave

Melissani Cave is located near the village of Karavomylos in the eastern part of the island. Nature has really played its hand here and created a beautiful cave with crystal clear water. After a part of the ceiling collapsed, the experience of the visit was even more magnified. In fact, the hole allows the sun's rays to penetrate, contributing to the change of colour in the pond to a bright turquoise. One of the most enchanting aspects of the Melissani Cave is the play of light and shadow that is created when sunlight penetrates through the hole in the cave ceiling during midday when it is just above the hole. The cave has its charms at other hours too, but if you'd like the experience of a lifetime, try to book a tour between 12:00 and 13:00.

Melissani Cave pond

Melissani Cave pond

During your visit to the Melissani Cave, you will enjoy a boat ride on the calm waters of the underground lake. The guides provide fascinating information about the history, geology and mythology of the cave, enhancing the visitor's experience. From the lake, the cruise continues deeper into the cave, where you can admire the impressive stalactites and stalagmites that adorn the cave walls and ceilings. Thanks to the illumination, there's some interesting scenery waiting for you - from the green and black rocks to the red ceilings.

Melissani Cave plays with colours

According to Greek mythology, the Melissani Cave is named after the nymph Melissani, who willingly drowned herself in a lake after the god Pan did not return her love. The ethereal beauty of the cave and its mythical associations give it its charm and mystique.

Melissani Cave colors

Excavations carried out in 1951 and 1962 found various artefacts (an ancient lamp, plates and figurines of nymphs and the god Pan) from the 3rd and 4th centuries BC, which were used in the Postclassic periods.

Outside the cave, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including lush vegetation, high cliffs and the sparkling waters of the Ionian Sea. The picturesque setting of the cave adds to its appeal as a must-visit destination in Kefalonia. Nearby is the magnificent Lake Karavomilos, where you can enjoy a fantastic lunch right by the shore.

The cave is accessible by car, for which there is a huge parking lot, but also by various organized tours. Tickets cost 7€ per person. However, if you want to go at the best time it is advisable to buy tickets early and then walk around and come back at the start time. From 11:30 am onwards, queues tend to form outside the cave and due to the limited capacity of the boats, it is possible that you may not get a cruise at the best time.

Melissani Cave entrance

Melissani Cave pond