Kefalonia is known as one of the more tranquil and un-touristy ones of the Ionian islands. It is also the largest and seems to absorb its visitors seamlessly. There are regular flights to Kefalonia International Airport throughout the year, yet it manages to retain its own essential character. But this beautiful island is not just about languid beaches, peaceful villages and panoramic scenery.

The month of August hosts several unique local festivals, probably the most boisterous of which is the Robola Wine Festival, named after the excellent local grape variety from the mountainous Fragata area. Over several days, you will be able to party along with the resident population, enjoying abundant selections of delicious local dishes and, of course, regional wines, accompanied by vivacious displays of music and dancing.

Grapevine cultivation and wine production are intrinsically connected with the history, the folklore and the inhabitants' daily lives. Almost every family in this region is involved in wine-making and Kefalonia is justly proud of being the sole Ionian island to have been granted 'Appellation of Origin' status for its wines. As well as Robola, make sure you get to sample the Muscat and Mavrodaphne varieties, too. True wine enthusiasts will also be pleased to learn that you can join in with tours of the vineyards complete with wine tastings.

The majority of islanders are sincerely religious and there are two quite extraordinary celebrations in August. The first is the feast day of the Virgin Mary that takes place all around the island but especially at the village of Markopoulo, where harmless snakes surround the monastery of the Virgin. The snake festival is celebrated every year to honour the Virgin and the nuns in this village, with traditional music, dances and a banquet.

Shortly afterwards is the festival of the patron saint of Kefalonia, Saint Gerasimos, during which his sarcophagus is carried in procession over people who lie on the ground, hoping for the blessings of good health.

August comes to a glorious close with the International Music Festival held in the capital of Kefalonia, Argostoli. Musicians from the rest of Greece and from further afield join local artists setting up all around the town to play in a wonderfully informal celebration of music. And, whether the event is sacred or secular, there can be few more inspiring islands on which to celebrate.