Active beach holidays - try something new this summer!

Vassiliki Bay is acknowledged as one of the premier water sports destinations in Europe. It’s gently sloping bay and perfect wind conditions draw windsurfers and sailors from around the world. Specialists tour operators, like Ocean Elements, offer beach holidays with a difference; the opportunity to windsurf, sail, kayak, paddle board, even mountain bike for free! Using the beach front Surf Hotel they offer the latest 2011 equipment, as well as tuition, free to their guests. You can expect the latest gear from the likes of Starboard & Tushingham (windsurfer kit), Laser & RS (dinghies), and Kona (mountain bikes). This is a terrific opportunity to try some of those activities you’d always promised to ‘give a go.’

The beaches around Vassiliki are just made for kicking back and relaxing on, take an ocean kayak and a picnic for the day, or catch a local caique (water taxi). There are also regular ferries from Vassiliki’s pretty harbour to Kefalonia and Ithaca for a change of scenery. Beach holidays, active or not, need a touch of nightlife and Vassiliki town’s Tavernas and bars provide just the right mix.

The island itself has an amazing array of man-made and natural features crying out to be visited. With numerous wars criss-crossing the area there have been any fortifications built, as well as historic religious architecture, many of which have suffered the effects of earthquakes of the centuries. Away from the olive groves inland from Vassiliki Bay the land rises up towards the mountainous centre. There you will find waterfalls, streams and springs, as well as some of the most dramatic views possible.

This means that it is so easy to try a new sport, challenge yourself and get out of your comfort zone. Of course, there’s still the beach if it all gets too much!