Kyllini: The westernmost cape of the Peloponnese

You can easily get to Kyllini by car from Athens.The distance Athens – Kyllini is about 28km and the drive is about 3 hours (285 km).Kyllini functions as an ideal starting point for a short road trip in the western Peloponnese, while in recent years it has been developed into the most beautiful summer destination of the Peloponnese. Many choose it to enjoy the long beaches with gold sand, in front of the crystal waters of the Ionian Sea, others to travel to Zakynthos & Kefalonia, while many visit it for its thermal baths, as well. An ideal destination for every type of traveler and especially a popular one for families with children. Finally, for the romantic ones, the sunset you will enjoy from this corner of the coastline of the western Peloponnese, will be one of the most beautiful of your life. Here the Ionian is painted rose-gold and the landscape resembles a postcard.

Being a connecting point to Ionian islands, Kyllini was always known for its port, however nowadays, Kyllini is a paradise destination itself.

It is loctated on the west coast of Greece, in the Peloponnese region. Kyllini a beautiful seaside village with fish taverns and restaurants by the sea, ideal for those looking for relaxing holidays. It may not impress you at first sight, but the more time you spend there, the more you will appreciate it.

It’s name is mentioned for the first time in the “Iliad” due to Mount Kyllini.After the fall of Constantinople in 1204, during the 13th century the Frankish conquerors of the Peloponnese founded here the fortified city of Clarentia (Clarentia, Clarence), which emerged as a major Mediterranean port during the Frankish period.

It was built by the Villeardouins of the Principality of Achaia on the site of ancient Kyllini and served as the port of Andravida, the capital of the Principality of Achaia.The ruins of the ancient Kyllini Castle are located northwest of the current town of Kyllini.

Today it is the largest passenger port in the Ionian Sea and the third in Greece. At the same time, the port of Kyllini is one of the first “green” ports of the Eastern Mediterranean!

It is the main “Gateway” to the Ionian Sea, since it connects the mainland with the Ionian islands. The port of Kyllini has a daily ferry connection with Zakynthos, Kefalonia & Ithaca, while the routes are increased in the summer months. The duration of the trip to Kefalonia (Poros), Zakynthos and Ithaca are approximately 1.5 hours, 1 hour and 2.5 hours respectively.

The port of Kyllini is surrounded by beautiful beaches. The organized sandy beach of the Kyllini village next to the port with the beach bar is ideal for families with children and those who do not want to cross long distances. Every year, it is awarded with a blue flag, and is famous for its clear waters. It is chosen by the locals.

Simirarly, the beach of Kafkalida with its blue-green waters, facing the island of Kafkalida with its lonely beautiful lighthouse is undoubtedly the “jewel” of Kyllini. It is the favorite of the more alternative visitors, since it is an unorganized beach, not easily accessible. However, the sunset you enjoy from there will compensate you.

If you wish holidays with rest and relaxation, feel awe & excitement about history and the past, love the-road trips or want a lightning trip to the charming 7 islands of the Ionian Sea, Kyllini is the destination that has it all and will make you wonder why you haven’t discovered it until now.