Why would you go all the way to Kefalonia to kayak in September when Scotland has some of the best paddling and wild camping in the world?
Twelve paddlers, mostly from LSKC, met on 21 September for a 7-day village hopping journey. Sea Kayak Kefalonia provided guides Harris from Greece and Carl from N Ireland, all necessary kayaks and equipment (and transport to start and from finish), and booked accommodation in apartments and breakfasts and dinners in local tavernas. Picnic lunches were prepared by Carl and Harris every day- a wonderful selection of local delicacies.
The weather was perfect: mid 20s, light breezes, and very pleasant sea temperatures. (The week before had been less fortunate with stronger winds and thunderstorms.)
The paddling pace was gentle, with max 21km per day, and stops every 90 mins or so for snacks and swims. Shorter days often ended with playtimes: optional assistance given with rolling practices, variations on self-rescuing (some involving acrobatics), alternative approaches to landing etc etc, or simply swimming, snorkelling in fantastically clear water, jumping off rocks, or short walks through beautiful green forests.
The coast of Kefalonia has many deep caves and arches to explore, stunning small beaches, and attractive small towns and villages. A short 4 km crossing took us to Ithica, and more beautiful beaches and towns- all with low-rise villas and apartments. (Kefalonia is undoubtedly one of the greenest and most beautiful of the Mediterranean islands.) Much of this has been caught on camera by our professional trip photographer Wendy. (Possibility of a winter slideshow?)
So, if you fancy paddling in sunshine, warm water, a bed and a shower every night, all arrangements made (except flights) and exceptional guides we would without hesitation recommend an Autumn trip to Kefalonia.