Kefalonia Gorges

The island of Kefalonia is well-known for its geography, comprising breathtaking natural landscapes, from magnificent beaches with golden sand and turquoise waters to the lush vegetation of the mountains. Those who love nature, as well as hiking, will be delighted to find out that the island has charming gorges to offer to explorers, perfect for wandering through and observing the unique flora and fauna!

Poros Gorge
This gorge is located near the village of Poros and lies close to its port. It is about 500 meters long, and its highest point reaches 80 meters. A stream called Vochynas runs through it, with its spring being Lake Avythos, and pouring into the sea while it drains during the summer. The gorge has an interesting natural scenery with many endemic plants and flowers, some of which only grow on the island. Additionally, visitors will be able to see many bird species, such as seagulls and birds of prey.
The Poros Gorge is also connected to some legends that originate from Greek mythology. According to a variation of the story, the demigod Hercules was the one who caused the creation of the gorge, as his footsteps were said to be what shaped the earth in that spot. Another myth claims that a dragon was responsible for the geomorphology and not Hercules. Actually, a cave inside the gorge is named Dragoness after the legend.
Traces of ancient civilizations have been discovered in various caves, including artifacts from the Neolithic Era and signs that they were once inhabited. Evidence of agricultural work, trade between islands and religious ceremonies have been also found.

Agia Varvara Gorge
East of Argostoli and near the Koutavos Lagoon, one will encounter the gorge of Agia Varvara. It consists of impressive, enormous rock formations that look almost vertical. It is of high botanical interest, as plants common in the Ionian Islands, as well as endemic ones, can be observed in the area. The gorge itself is not fairly long.
It got its name from the chapel of Agia Varvara, which can be visited in a cave in the bed of the gorge. Part of the church was carved into the rock, and interesting rock formations are dominating its interior. According to the locals, it was built after they discovered an icon of the Saint in that spot, which was considered miraculous. Every December 4th, during the celebrations of Agia Varvara, the faithful cross the two stone bridges that connect to the chapel to pay their respects and participate in customs.

Gradou Gorge
The gorge of Gradou is located in the southeastern part of Kefalonia, not far from Lefkes village. It can only be reached by hiking, starting from the road that goes from Poros to Skala, but the incredible landscape is definitely worth the walk through the forest.
The highlight is the several Gradou waterfalls and lakes they create. They have the most water in the period between December and May, and the highest one reaches 18 meters. During warmer months, visitors can refresh themselves in the small creeks but should remember that the water is very cold, even in the Summer.
Gradou Gorge is also recommended for canyoning. It is a quite simple extreme sport suitable for beginners, where participants start from the highest point of a gorge or canyon and move towards the bottom, using ropes and safety harnesses.