A Sunny Memory from Kefalonia
Back in 2016, my then-boyfriend and I took our first holiday abroad together — two whole weeks on the beautiful Greek island of Kefalonia. It feels like a lifetime ago now, but I still remember it so vividly. That trip was filled with sun, laughter, and those early, blissful moments of being in love.
Relaxing Into Holiday Mode
The first week was pure relaxation. Without a car, we settled into a slower pace — lounging by the pool, wandering down to the local pebble beach, and soaking up the warm Mediterranean sun. I can still hear the gentle lapping of the waves and the distant chatter of families on the beach. Our accommodation host was so lovely, bringing us little bowls of yoghurt or fresh melon to cool down as we baked in the sun. And the food—oh, the food—fresh grilled seafood, and delicious hearty kleftico dishes.
Exploring Kefalonia’s Stunning Views
Week two was adventure time. We rented a car and set out to explore the island’s breathtaking landscapes. Kefalonia’s rugged cliffs, turquoise waters, and charming villages felt like a dream. One highlight was the lookout point above Myrtos Beach, a place that feels like a postcard come to life. The white pebble beach below contrasts sharply with the vivid blues of the sea.
Reaching the beach itself was a challenge, with a steep path winding down and a shoreline covered entirely in smooth pebbles. Not exactly the cosiest spot to sunbathe, so we didn’t stay for long.
Turning Memories Into Art
A few years later, when I was just starting to experiment with digital illustration on my iPad, I found myself drawn back to this moment. I used a photo I’d taken on that trip as a reference and carefully traced over it, capturing the vibrant colours and the way the shadows stretched across the bay. That digital artwork became one of my favourite pieces, a tangible reminder of sunshine and happiness.
It’s strange, though — that trip was with someone who later caused me a lot of pain. Looking back, it’s a mix of emotions. But the artwork helps me hold on to the good parts, the warmth of the sun, the joy of discovery, the taste of glasses of delicious wine shared in the sunshine. Art, for me, has become a way to separate the happiness from the heartbreak and keep the memories that still feel precious.
My parents have also visited Kefalonia and had this print hanging in their kitchen for a while. It feels like a little thread connecting us all to that beautiful place and time.
What This Trip Means to Me Now
Honestly, this trip mostly just reminds me how much I love Greece and how much I’d love to do more Greek island holidays one day — hopefully with the right person, this time! I’m definitely craving more of that amazing food, the delicious wine, and just that warm, carefree holiday feeling. It’s been too long since I’ve had that kind of sun on my skin and time to simply relax.
So while the memories are a bit mixed, the artwork still brings back all the good bits — the colours, the light, the sense of being somewhere beautiful and peaceful. And that’s something I’m happy to hold onto.
