Old Vlachata: A Village Frozen in Time
Explore Old Vlachata: A hauntingly beautiful village frozen in time since the 1953 earthquake, offering a unique glimpse into Kefalonia's past.
Old Vlachata is a hauntingly beautiful abandoned village near Sami, Kefalonia, offering a glimpse into pre-earthquake life. Destroyed in 1953, its ruins evoke a sense of resilience and history, drawing visitors to wander its evocative remains and experience a unique cultural landmark.
A brief summary to Old Vlachata
- Sami, 280 80, GR
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the soft lighting for photography.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes as the terrain can be uneven and rocky.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy the breathtaking views surrounded by the ruins.
- Explore the nearby trails for splendid vistas of the Ionian Sea.
- Consider visiting during the off-peak months for a quieter experience.
Getting There
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Walking
From the center of Sami, head southwest towards Karavomilos. Follow the main road for approximately 2km. Look for signs directing you to Old Vlachata or the Saristra Festival. The walk is uphill and takes around 30-40 minutes. No costs involved.
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Public Transport
Take a local bus from Argostoli to Sami. Buses run regularly, and the journey takes about 40 minutes. From Sami, you can walk to Old Vlachata (approximately 2 kilometers) or take a local taxi. A taxi from Sami to Old Vlachata costs approximately €7-10. Bus fare from Argostoli to Sami is approximately €4-€7.
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Taxi
From Sami, a taxi to Old Vlachata is the quickest option. Taxis are readily available in Sami. The ride is short, approximately 10 minutes. The estimated cost is €7-€10.
Discover more about Old Vlachata
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Saint Theodore Lighthouse
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Askos Stone Park
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Unmissable attractions to see
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Melissani Cave
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Karavomilos Lake
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Agia Paraskevi Beach
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Soritas Cave
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Drogarati Cave
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Castle Agioi Fanentes
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Agia Effimia Marina
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Acropolis of Ancient Sami
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Antisamos beach
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Old Lighthouse Sami
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Vassilakis Winery Kefalonia
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Koutsoupia Beach
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Essential places to dine
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Agnantema Restaurant
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Terre Mouikis Restaurant
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Katavothres Club Restaurant
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Tzivras
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Kastro Cafe
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Oskars Restaurant Pool Bar
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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