Melissani Cave Kefalonia and Drogarati Cave
- Tonia Balla
- Nov 27
- 4 min read
Updated: Nov 28
Two unique wonders of Kefalonia
Kefalonia has many beautiful places but there are two that many visitors always remember. The magical lake of Melissani and the impressive underground world of Drogarati. They are close to each other yet so different that it feels like experiencing two sides of the island’s soul in one small trip.
Melissani Cave Kefalonia
Best time to visit Melissani Cave Kefalonia
One of the most magical places in Kefalonia
Every summer almost everyone who stays or passes through Agia Efimia asks me about Melissani Cave Kefalonia, always the same question. What is the best time to visit Melissani. And every time I smile because the truth is that the lake has its own beauty at every moment of the day. Sometimes it looks brighter sometimes calmer but always magical. This is why I decided to write this article so that anyone who wants to visit can have a clear picture and enjoy it without rushing or trying to chase a perfect hour that changes from month to month.
Melissani is one of those places you never forget. It is located in Karavomylos close to Agia Efimia and it is an underground lake with crystal clear water and an open roof that lets the natural light enter from above. The light gives the water a blue colour that looks almost unreal.
In local tradition Melissani is known as the Cave of the Nymphs. The old stories say that the water nymphs lived here, protectors of the clear blue lake. The name comes from the nymph Melissanthi who, according to myth, disappeared inside the cave when her love was not returned. Since then the sunlight that enters from the roof is seen as a gentle tribute to her. The colour of the lake changes with the light and the surface shines as if the nymphs are still playing with the reflections.
The visit is done with small boats. The boatmen guide you around the lake and you pass by spots that feel peaceful and enchanting. The tour is short but beautiful and gives you the sense of entering a hidden world that reveals itself for just a few minutes.
Most travellers choose to go when the sun is high because the water often looks brighter. This however does not happen the same way every month and many visitors tend to gather at the same hour. The lake is beautiful at any time and each moment gives a different atmosphere.
Melissani is easy to reach and there is parking right outside the entrance. The experience suits all ages and requires no preparation. It impresses not only with its beauty but also with the calmness it offers. It is one of those places where time seems to slow down.
A friendly little tip
Many visitors believe there is one perfect hour to see Melissani but the light changes from month to month and the lake is beautiful whenever you go. If you choose the time that suits you best you will enjoy it just as much and avoid the long queues that form when everyone arrives at the same moment.
Drogarati Cave
A natural masterpiece beneath Kefalonia
A short drive from Melissani you will find Drogarati Cave which offers a completely different experience. While Melissani feels bright and dreamlike Drogarati has a deeper more dramatic beauty. It is a large stalactite cave that opens into an impressive chamber filled with warm amber tones and an atmosphere that instantly quiets you.
Local tradition says that Drogarati appeared after a powerful earthquake opened the first entrance. The cave later became known for its remarkable acoustics. The main chamber is called the Hall of Apotheosis and its natural stone formations look like a theatre created by the earth itself. Some say the air inside seems to breathe, carrying even the softest sound through the entire chamber. Visitors describe the feeling as stepping into an underground cathedral carved slowly by time.
As you walk down the steps the temperature becomes cooler and the air more still. The main hall is enormous and the natural formations have been growing slowly for thousands of years. The stalactites and stalagmites look like sculptures shaped by nature. The atmosphere is calm and slightly mysterious and many visitors feel awe the moment they enter the central chamber.
Drogarati is known for its remarkable acoustics and sometimes it has even hosted small concerts. When you stand in the centre you hear the slightest sound travel through the space. It is a place that you do not just look at. You experience it.
The cave is well maintained and the path is easy although slightly humid because of the natural underground environment. The visit is not long but it stays in your memory and it pairs beautifully with a visit to Melissani since the two caves offer such different moods.
A simple suggestion for visitors
If you plan to visit both caves it is lovely to start with Melissani and then continue to Drogarati. The contrast between the bright lake and the deep amber chamber makes the day feel special. The two caves are close to each other and easy to reach which makes them a perfect small trip for anyone staying in the area.