MELISSANI ROBOLA
| PORT: | ARGOSTOLI (Cephalonia) |
| SHORE EXCURSION: | Melissani Cave and Robola Winery |
| TOUR AT A GLANCE | |
| Activity level | moderate |
| Duration | 4 hours |
| You will visit | St. Andrew Monastery, Melissani Cave, Robola winery |
| You will see | Katavothres |
| Shopping | time for souvenir shopping in town |
TOUR OVERVIEW:
Leaving the port of Argostoli you will be driven to the famous Katavothres (swallow holes), a rare geological phenomenon. Here sea water enters opening in the rock and disappears.
Our drive will continue to the St. Andrew Monastery for a short visit and then on to the subterranean Melissani Cave-lake. It was a sanctuary of Pan in Mycenaean times. Part of its limestone ceiling has collapsed creating a haunting place with deep blue water. A channel leads to the enclosed section, where legend says that the nymph Melissani drowned herself when she was spurned by Pan.
The cave of Melissani, outside Sami, is one of the most significant sights on the island. As the excavations of 1963 have shown, it has taken its name from the nymph Melissanthi. These excavations brought to light aspects of the nymph, a statuette, and an earthen tray with a depiction of Pan.
The cave is 40 meters in width, 36 meters in height, and 3,5 meters in length. Inside, it is covered by water 20 to 30 meters in depth due to the collapse of a part of the roof. Small crafts carry visitors there to admire the spectacular sight of the stalactites and the changing colors of the water. An artificial balcony offers an enchanting view from the top of the cave.
Our next stop will be at the “Robola” winery. The Robola wine is unique in its kind for connoisseurs have deservedly earned the appellation of high quality. The Robola Zone consists of seven communities in the southern-central mountainous sector of the island with ideal terrain and climatic conditions for the cultivation of the vineyards. Drinking the Robola wine, will harmoniously enhance the pleasure with satisfaction of the time of your life.
Following the east coast of the island you will be back in Argostoli, the capital of island.
Important Notes:
- This excursion will operate by coach and on foot.
- Note that all minors (those under 18) must be accompanied by an adult on shore excursions.
- Guests are advised to wear comfortable walking shoes, as there is approximately two hours of walking on this tour over some gravel pathways and steps.
- Guests under the age of 18 years are not permitted to sample the wines.
- During the wine tasting local snacks will be offered.
- Rest room facilities at the monastery, cave and winery.