Kefalonia Katavothres

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General infoMapMembers Photos (23)Greeka Photos (4)Reviews (1)

Location: Argostoli

The fascinating Sinkholes (Katavothres) of Argostoli are one of the most impressive places in all of Kefalonia. Truly one of the most stunning geological phenomenons on earth, the sight got its formation due to the karst connecting the Sinkholes of Argostoli with the springs of Karavomilos in Sami and the lagoon lake of Melissani!

These so-called swallow-holes boast constant water flows, whose power was once used as a power supply with the help of a sea mill in order to operate a power plant and an ice factory until the inception of the Second World War. However, the first corn mills were built by the Englishmen in 1835. In the course of time, numerous scientists and researchers developed their theories about what caused the Katavothres to exist, including Heinrich Schliemann in 1868.

The watermills were destroyed during the seismic earthquake of 1953, whilst now only a singular water wheel is still in place, a replica of the ones that were demolished. Furthermore, feel free to enjoy your stop at Katavothres to marvel at the sight, take beautiful pictures, visit the nearby Fanari Beach, or relax with a coffee of your choice or a cocktail drink at the sight’s cafeteria!

How to get there

The Katavothres is located in Argostoli.

Private transfers: We recommend using an online pre-booked Kefalonia transfer service, which provides transfer by taxi, minibus, or private VIP car and arranging a pickup directly from the airport, port, or your hotel. Alternatively, there's the option of arranging a pickup by a local driver directly at the following numbers: 0030 694 511 8866, 0030 694 530 6145, 0030 699 561 9605, or booking your taxi online.

Car rental: There's the option of renting a car in Kefalonia and picking it up directly from the airport, port, or your hotel. Using a rental car allows visitors to discover Katavothres and many other places of interest in Kefalonia at their own pace.

Public transport: The central bus station of the island is located in Argostoli. There are bus connections between this bus station and most areas of the island. Consider that time schedules might change according to the season. Check the official timetables here.
Tip: Since buses don't always stop at every scheduled stop of their itinerary, our advice to visitors is to inform the driver about their final destination, so that he makes a stop there.

Map

Reviews

3/5.0
1 Reviews
  • vasilikiang 13 Oct 2011
    Romantic bar works there
    This is a very nice spot about 2 km from Argostoli. Actually a nice cafeteria has been built around Katavothres that works as a romantic bar at nights. The cafe opens after 7 in the evening, which is a shame because it would also be a nice place for day coffee. There you can actually see the sea water getting into the ground, passing a wooden mill and disappearing under some rocks. This water crosses the island from underground and after 30 km it reached Melissani Lake and then pours into the sea in Karavomylos, at a place with a same mill.

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