Visited Kefalonia for the first time 1st 2 weeks in July. Loved the island - people friendly - food great (the lamb kleftiko at the Dolphin in Sami especially). Read a lot about the Pericles on this website before visiting and was a little anxious about comments re the barman Nikos - he isn't everyones cup of tea, but you get used to his little ways. Reception staff very pleasant and always happy to give advice and help in any way. It's a fairly rural location so it's only natural to expect some noise from cockerals, dogs etc (not to mention the early wake up call at 6am by the goat bells). All of this is what makes Greece different - I love it and I will be back.

We were staying at the Pericles so walked to the caves. Thought it was good value for money. We had just started our walk back when a taxi pulled up (much to the appreciation of my husband, as by this time it was getting quite hot). We got in and when we arrived in Sami my husband went to pay but the taxi driver wouldn't take any money. He kept patting his heart and refusing payment so we understood this to mean either, 1) it was his good deed for the day or 2) he didn't think John's heart would last out for the walk back! Either way, it was a very nice gesture and very much appreciated.

Have the opportunity to book a holiday at San Giorgio from 25 September. Can anyone advise what the weather is likely to be like? Went to Thassos same time last year and it rained (torrential) all week. I'm not a sun worshipper so I'm not too bothered about temperature but would like it to be dry (at least some of the time).

i've just got to respond to russells numerous and extremely negative comments re the pericles. i visited kefalonia for the first time in july and stayed at the pericles. it is not 5* luxury and it isn't advertised as such! what it is (from my experience)- is a well run 2/3* hotel. it has friendly staff (okay - you didn't get on well with the barman - i didn't particularly take to him either, but the gentlemen and young ladies on reception were extremely helpful and friendly. our room was kept immaculately clean with fresh linen and towel change 3 times per week. to say that anyone who has anything good to say about the pericles 'likes a drink', is a bit much. everyone knows that drinks bought in hotel bars are more expensive than elsewhere but nobody twists your arm to make you buy. as for the 'noise element' i much prefer to listen to cows mooing, goats bleating, c**k crowing etc to loud music, load mouthed yobbos, self opinionated individuals etc etc. anyone who has been to greece before, as russell has, should know that 'it's breakfast - but not as we know it'. the kiddies playground - what were you expecting - alton towers! last but not least, i favour the pool area being apart from the accommodation(and it's hardly a hike now is it?)- that way you don't get all the noise associated with the pool area (squealing, splashing, music etc)if you do not want it. i hope by posting these comments new visitors to the message board will get a more balanced picture of the pericles.

This will be my last posting to this message board. I have been kept amused and interested by everyones comments. All I can say about the negative things written about the Pericles, is, do not be put off. If it was half as bad as some people make out, I would not be saying 'go and see for yourself'. I am pretty confident that 99% people would not be disappointed with the hotel, its staff or location. I would certainly consider visiting it again. Unfortunately, you won't see me there again this year - I've just booked a fortnight in Skiathos next month. Everybody - 'kalos diakopes' - enjoy your holidays, enjoy the Greek experience. You'll love it!