Melissani Cave, Greece

Melissani Cave

Kefalonia IslandGreece

caveundergroundgeological formationsnatural wondertourist attraction

Why You'll Love Melissani Cave

Hey there, have you heard about the Melissani Cave in Greece? It's a hidden gem that's definitely worth checking out if you're planning a trip to the Greek islands.

This stunning cave is located on the island of Kefalonia, and it's filled with crystal clear turquoise waters that reflect the natural light filtering through the cave's roof. You can take a boat tour through the cave and marvel at the beauty of the stalactites and stalagmites that have formed over thousands of years.

As you drift along the underground river, your guide will tell you the fascinating story of how the cave got its name. According to Greek mythology, it was named after the nymph Melissanthi, who drowned herself in the cave when the god Pan rejected her love.

The Melissani Cave is a popular tourist destination, but it's still a peaceful and serene experience. The tranquil waters and stunning natural scenery make it the perfect spot to unwind and soak up the beauty of nature. So if you're looking for a unique and stunning destination to add to your travel itinerary, be sure to check out the Melissani Cave in Greece!

Getting to Melissani Cave

The nearest airport to Melissani Cave is the Kefalonia International Airport, which is located approximately 35 km away. From the airport, you can take a taxi or hire a car to reach Melissani Cave. If you are coming from a nearby city, such as Argostoli or Sami, you can also take a taxi or hire a car. There are also organized tours that operate from nearby cities and towns.

The closest city to Melissani Cave is Argostoli, in Kefalonia Island.

Travelling from Kefalonia International Airport (EFL) to Melissani Cave

When to Visit

The best time to visit Melissani Cave in Greece is during the summer months of June to August when the weather is warm and sunny, and the water inside the cave is at its clearest.

Weather and Climate

Melissani Cave in Greece has a Mediterranean climate, which means that it has hot and dry summers and mild and wet winters.

In the summer months from June to August, temperatures range from 25-32°C (77-90°F) with minimal rainfall. The water in the cave is also warmer during this time, making it a popular destination for tourists looking to cool off.

In the winter months from December to February, temperatures can drop to around 16-17°C (61-63°F) with more frequent rainfall. The water in the cave during this time tends to be cooler, and the cave may be closed to visitors if the weather is particularly cold or stormy.

Spring and autumn, from March to May and September to November respectively, tend to have temperatures ranging from 19-25°C (66-77°F) with moderate rainfall. These are generally considered good times to visit the cave, as the weather is mild and crowds are smaller than during the peak summer months.

Costs When Visiting

In Greece, the currency is the Euro.
Some sample costs when travelling around Melissani Cave are:

Accommodation:
- Budget hotel/hostel: €20-€40 per night
- Mid-range hotel: €60-€100 per night
- Luxury hotel/resort: €150-€300 per night

Food:
- Street food/snacks: €3-€6 per item
- Cheap restaurant meal: €7-€12 per meal
- Mid-range restaurant meal: €15-€25 per meal
- Fine dining restaurant meal: €40-€80 per meal

Note: Prices may vary depending on location, season, and availability.

Safety Rating

Melissani Cave is considered safe for visitors. Greece has a relatively low crime rate compared to other European countries, and there have been no reports of significant safety concerns at the cave. However, visitors should always exercise caution and take necessary safety measures, such as keeping valuables secure and being aware of surroundings. Greece is generally considered safe for women, but travelers should still take precautions when traveling alone at night. The country is also known for being tolerant of different races and sexual orientations, with laws and policies in place to protect LGBTQ rights.

Local Population

It is difficult to determine the population of Melissani Cave as it is a natural tourist attraction rather than a residential area. However, based on the surrounding area, the demographics are primarily Greek with a small tourist population. The official language is Greek, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas. The gender and racial breakdown is diverse, with no specific majority group.

Things to Do

Some common activities for tourists at the Melissani Cave in Greece include:

1. Boat tours: Visitors can take a guided boat tour of the underground lake inside the cave, allowing you to see the beautiful turquoise waters and the stalactites and stalagmites from up close.

2. Photography: The cave's unique lighting and stunning blue water make for great photo opportunities.

3. Swim: Some visitors choose to take a dip in the crystal clear waters of the underground lake.

4. Explore the cave complex: Visitors can also explore the surrounding cave complex, which includes various chambers and passageways that offer different views and experiences.

5. Learn about the history: Many visitors are interested in learning about the history of the cave and its geological formation, which can be explored through guided tours and informational exhibits.