Often overshadowed by more its more flashy neighbours, this petite village in Greece is equally abundant in natural beauty and historical significance, but with an added dose of quiet charm
Travellers looking to explore a more authentic and serene side of Europe’s coasts will not need to travel very far this summer. Just a three-hour plane journey from the UK, one historic seaside village in Greece has enough beauty to rival—or surpass—its more glamorous neighbours.
Assos, which is located in the northwestern region of the Greek island of Cephalonia, has been named one of the best seaside towns in Europe, according to The Guardian. The charming fishing village sits on a hillside overlooking the Ionian Sea, and is known for its rosy hued houses and smattering of hidden coves and beaches.
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The island of Cephalonia is the sixth largest in Greece. Aside from its size, Cephalonia’s turquoise waters and lush vegetation has allowed it to distinguish itself among the resort-centred Greek islands like Zakynthos. Situated about 24 miles north of the island’s capital, Assos best showcases what Cephalonia has to offer. Despite its petite size, Assos is packed with a rich history that is most evident from its impressive Venetian ruins.
The most famous remnant of the village’s Venetian rule is the famous Cephalonia Castle of Assos. Now a recognised European Heritage Site, it is one of only two fortresses on the entire island and the best example of Venetian defensive architecture. Another of Assos’ most well-known architectural features are the rows of ice cream-coloured houses that sit along the shore. Colourful houses such as these are common in old fishing towns, the lore being that they helped guide fishermen home. They also offer a distinct contrast to the typical white-washed, blue-accented architecture that are synonymous with islands like Santorini and Mykonos.
What Assos does have in common with other Greek islands is its incredible natural beauty, specifically its beaches and coves. The village only has three small beaches, but they are known for their tranquil atmosphere which travellers would be hard pressed to find on any other Greek island.
The village’s namesake beach is the most popular, identifiable by the line of cypress trees which offer generous shade to beachgoers. Despite its small size, Assos beach still offers modern amenities like sunbed rentals and beachgoers also have the option to rent their own boat to better explore the surrounding coves. Don’t worry, you won’t be left completely to your own devices. Those who rent a boat from Contecto Assos (a resort just 90 metres from the beach) will receive detailed information about the boat and the best routes to take to see the best of the surrounding landscape.
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Myrtos beach is also worth visiting and only a short drive from Assos. That said, it is important to note that the narrow streets can make it quite difficult to get around by car. If you are driving down to the capital from a different area of the island, expect to encounter winding roads and hairpin turns. Alternatively, buses run quite regularly from Argostoli, the island’s capital, and stop at a junction above Assos. From here, a local bus can take you straight down to the village. There are also direct flights from the UK to Cephalonia’s International Airport (EFL) and typically last between three and four hours. The island is also well-connected by ferry services to various ports in Greece.