Kefalonia: Old Farsa Village Sunset Walking Tour

This guided evening stroll through the ruins of Old Farsa offers a fascinating glimpse into the island’s past, combined with stunning views of the Ionian Sea at sunset. While many tours focus on the well-trodden tourist spots, this experience transports you along ancient pathways that once connected generations of villagers.

What makes this tour stand out? Firstly, the spectacular sunset views, which truly capture Kefalonia’s rugged beauty. Secondly, the insightful stories about the architecture and history of Old Farsa, enriching the experience beyond just sightseeing. Thirdly, the relaxed pace and small group size ensure you’re able to soak in the ambiance and ask questions.

A potential consideration is that the tour involves walking on uneven, historic pathways, which may not be suitable for those with mobility issues or low fitness levels. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy gentle hikes, history, and spectacular scenery.

This tour appeals most to those who love authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences with a touch of history and a generous dose of natural beauty.

Good To Know

• Stunning sunset views over the Ionian Sea make this a memorable evening.
• Historical insights about Old Farsa’s architecture and past lifestyle.
• Leisurely walk along ancient pathways traveled by villagers for centuries.
• Small group size (limited to 8 participants) ensures a more personalized experience.
• End with a refreshing drink on a roof terrace with sea views, perfect for relaxing after the walk.
• Suitable for those with moderate mobility and a decent level of fitness.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An Authentic Walk Through Kefalonia’s Old Farsa

This 3.5-hour guided tour is a slow-paced journey through the ruins of Old Farsa, a village scarred by earthquakes but still brimming with stories. Starting in the new village, the guide leads you uphill along a pathway that connects the modern settlement with the ancient remains, offering spectacular panoramic views along the way. The climb is gentle enough for most, but comfortable walking shoes are a must, given the uneven, ancient pathways.

From the outset, it’s clear that the focus isn’t just on ticking off sights. The guide, whose knowledge is peppered with anecdotes, brings the ruins alive—explaining how the architecture reflects Venetian influences and how villagers once relied on these high vantage points for security. The walk is circular, looping around several of the most significant buildings and viewpoints, which means you’re constantly surrounded by stunning vistas, ancient stones, and the scent of the Mediterranean.

What Makes the Walk Special

Unlike typical sightseeing tours, the charm here is the sense of stepping back in time. Walking along pathways that villagers used for generations, you get a tangible sense of community and resilience. An unnamed reviewer mentioned that “the pathways felt like walking through a living monument,” which captures the magic of rediscovering old routes that have withstood earthquakes and time.

The guide offers detailed stories about the architecture dating back to Venetian times, explaining how the buildings’ design reflects the island’s layered history. You’ll also learn about the villagers’ lifestyles, their livelihoods, and how the earthquake history shaped the town’s current form, turning what was once a bustling village into evocative ruins.

The Sunset Experience

As the tour winds down, the natural spectacle truly comes into focus. The sun dips behind the Ionian Sea, casting warm hues that make the crumbling stonework glow. Many guests find this moment to be the highlight—the peaceful silence interrupted only by the gentle lapping of the waves. The view from Old Farsa’s high vantage points captures a vast stretch of sea and sky, ideal for photos or simply soaking in the moment.

Ending on a High Note

After the walk, everyone heads back to Footsteps HQ for a well-deserved refreshment—a drink on the roof terrace overlooking the sea. It’s a relaxing way to reflect on what you’ve seen, chat with fellow travelers, and enjoy the cool evening breeze.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

The tour begins in the new village, where you’ll meet your guide at a designated meeting point near the village church and Cafe Marina. From there, you’ll follow a short uphill drive and walk to the start of the ancient pathways. The ascent is manageable, but sturdy shoes are recommended to navigate the rocky, uneven terrain.

Once in Old Farsa, the circular route takes you past key ruins and architectural highlights. Your guide shares stories about each site, including the buildings that date back to Venetian times. The walk emphasizes the sense of security villagers felt from being high on the hill, a strategic choice during turbulent times, which is still evident today.

Throughout the walk, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the Ionian Sea, especially as the sun begins to set. The paths are narrow but well-trodden, allowing an intimate connection with the landscape and history of the area.

What You’ll Learn

Expect to hear about the lifestyles of modern and ancient villagers, how the earthquake affected the settlement, and what remains of the original structures. The guide’s insights make the ruins feel alive, linking past and present.

The Final Stop

The tour concludes with a visit to a roof terrace at Footsteps HQ, where you can settle in with a cool drink and soak up the last light of day. Many reviews mention how this ending offers a perfect blend of relaxation and awe, with some noting it as a highlight of their Kefalonia experience.

Practical Details and Why They Matter

Price & Value: At $53 per person, this tour offers a well-rounded experience combining history, scenic beauty, and relaxation. Compared to other Kefalonia tours, the focus on Old Farsa’s ruins and sunset views offers a unique, authentic glimpse into local life. The small group size enhances the experience, ensuring personal attention from guides.

Duration & Timing: Lasting approximately 3.5 hours, the tour is timed to catch the sunset, with start times typically between 4.30 pm and 6 pm depending on the season. Planning ahead ensures you’re prepared for the timing, especially in summer when the evenings are longer.

Included & Not Included: The guided walk and the final drink are included, but you’ll need to bring your own water, camera, comfy shoes, and sun protection. The tour doesn’t include transfers, so you’ll need to organize your own transport to the meeting point—though directions provided are clear.

Group Size & Accessibility: Limited to 8 participants, the small group enhances interaction and ensures you’re not lost in a crowd. However, the walk involves uneven terrain and is not suitable for children under 13 or those with mobility difficulties.

Final Verdict: Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for history aficionados, sunset lovers, and those seeking an authentic taste of Kefalonia’s past. It’s ideal for travelers who enjoy leisurely walks in scenic settings and want to avoid touristy crowds, as the small group and off-the-path location provide a more intimate encounter with the island’s heritage.

If you’re seeking a relaxing evening with stunning views and a story-rich environment, this tour hits the right notes. It’s a wonderful chance to step back into time, walk along ancient routes, and end your day with a peaceful sunset.

However, if mobility is an issue or you prefer structured, bus-based sightseeing, this might not be your best fit. Also, be prepared for unpredictable terrain and bring appropriate footwear.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included?
No, transfers are not included. You will need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point in Farsa village, following the provided directions.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a camera, sunscreen, and water are recommended. The walk involves uneven, ancient pathways, so sturdy footwear is essential.

What is the tour duration?
The tour lasts approximately 3.5 hours, starting between 4.30 pm and 6 pm depending on the season, to catch the sunset.

Is this suitable for children?
No, the tour is not suitable for children under 13 due to the walking terrain and the nature of the experience.

Can I join if I have mobility issues?
Unfortunately, this tour isn’t recommended for people with mobility impairments because of the uneven pathways.

Is the walk difficult?
While the pace is relaxed, the terrain can be uneven and hilly. Good walking shoes are necessary to enjoy the full experience.

What kind of views will I see?
Expect panoramic views of the Ionian Sea, ancient ruins, and the picturesque landscape of Kefalonia’s high vantage points.

What is the ending experience like?
The tour concludes with a drink on a roof terrace at Footsteps HQ, offering a peaceful spot to reflect and enjoy the sea views as the sun sets.

In brief, this tour offers an authentic, scenic, and educational journey through Kefalonia’s past, ending with one of the island’s most beautiful sunsets. It’s a perfect choice for those who want to combine a gentle walk with stunning visuals and meaningful stories—an experience bound to be a highlight of your Kefalonia adventure.

You can check if your dates are available here: