CORFU
Meet the mythical island of the Phaeaceans.
An island of incomparable beauty and cultural heritage, utterly unique due to the combination of western architecture, endless nature and innumerable beaches that can satisfy all types of visitors. From adventure lovers who like to explore to those who would rather relax on an organized beach, there really is something for everyone.
A tour around the island’s picturesque little villages will give you the feeling that time has stopped, as there are a lot of places where the Venetian architectural heritage has remained intact. Moreover, the island’s customs and traditions, bursting with vibrancy and color along with the mouth watering regional gastronomy will take the visitor on an experiential journey.
Outskirts
1. Pelekas
Pelekas is a Corfu village located about 13 kilomeres southwest of the centre of the island. This little and very verdant traditional village became widely known due to Kaiser’s throne (also known as Kaiser’s observatory), a monument that lies on its highest spot. It was the spot where the emperor Wilhelm the Second used to escape to in order to relax, think and observe the truly breathtaking view from there. Apart from the glorious panoramic view, one can also enjoy a magical sunset from this beautiful hill.
2. Panagia Vlahernon and Pontikonisi
The picturesque little temple of Panagia Vlahernon is one of the island’s landmarks and it is located below Kanoni on a small rocky island that is joined to the land by a little pedestrian bridge. It got the name Vlaherena or Vlaherna from a big monastery in Istanbul that carries the same name. It is believed that it was built around the 17th century and it used to serve as a women’s monastery up until 1980. Its pedestrian bridge is also used as a place to tie the little boats and fishing boats that come and go to Pontikonisi, a verdant islet situated on the entrance of Halkiopoulos lagoon, right opposite Corfu airport (Ioannis Kappodistrias). During the reign of Otto a monastery dedicated to the Transfiguration of Christ was built there. Due to its natural beauty and rich flora, the islet is a protected area and therefore it can only be visited on certain occasions such as the 6th of August which is the monastery’s celebration day as well as Easter Monday.
3. Angelokastro
Angelocastro is situated on the northwest coast of Corfu, near Palaiokastritsa on top of a steep cliff that stands 305 metres above the sea and it is one of the most important Byzantine castles in Greece. According to historians, the need to transfer Palaiokastro (today known as Palaiokastritsa monastery) to a more fortified position led Michael Angelos the 2nd, son of Michael Komnenos the 1st Despot of Epirus to build Angelokastro in 1214. During excavations that took place in 1997, two early Christian slabs were unearthed, proving that the area was occupied by the early Byzantine period. Its highest point can be accessed by an uphill path and from there one can see almost the entire island, a big part of the Ionian sea as well as the mountains of Greek Epirus.
Sights
Museums
1. Byzantine Museum of Antivouniotissa
The Byzantine Museum of Antivouniotissa is housed in one of the most characteristic ecclesiastical monuments of Corfu city, the church of Kyra Antivouniotissa (Our Lady Antivouniotissa). Already functioning in the 15 th century, the church is the oldest, most complete and best preserved example of the Heptanesean Basilica architectural style. Since 1984, there has been a permanent display of a large and rather important collection of movable icons and heirlooms that date from the 15 th
to the 20 th century. The collection is a full representation of six whole centuries of artistic religious expression and creation in Corfu and the Ionian islands.
2. Museum of Asian art
The Museum of Asian art in Corfu is the only museum in Greece that is dedicated solely to the art and antiquities of India and the Far East. Housed in the palace of st Michael and st George, an imposing neo classical building at the town of Corfu, it boasts an impressive collection of approximately 15.000 works of Asian art. The museum opened in 1927 thanks to the donation of Gregorios Manos’s collection of Sino Japanese art that he had purchased at auctions in Vienna and Paris in the late 19th early 20th century. Many more donations of either entire collections or single items have followed since.
3. Achilleion Palace
The Achilleion Palace is located 10 kilometers southwest of the town of Corfu at the picturesque village of Gastouri. It was built for Elizabeth of Austria (Sissy), who had selected Corfu as the place where her summer retreat would be. The museum
impresses for its architecture, exquisite murals and paintings that decorate its interior as well as a magnificent garden, where one can admire some artistically sculpted statues, such as that of dying Achilles, whom Sissy admired a lot. After the
assasination of Empress Sissy the palace was bought by Kaiser Wilhelm ll and became his summer residence. During Word Wars l and ll, the property was used for a number of purposes and since 1994 it has been functioning as a museum.
4. Casa Parlante
Casa Parlante is the most alive historical museum in Corfu and it is housed in a 19 th century noble mansion in the centre of Corfu old town. The museum brings history to life by recreating a whole different era. The daily life of a 19 th century noble family unfolds before one’s eyes through animated human figures using robotic technology, impressive representation of internal decoration and even sounds and smells of those times.
5. Archaeological Museum of Corfu
The archaeological museum of Corfu exhibits findings from the town as well as from the wider region of the island. Since 1967 the museum has been housed in a two – storey building in the area of Garitsa. In 2019 an extensive project regarding the full restoration of the building complex was completed and at the same time the museum launched the re exhibition of its collections based on a more modern approach. The exhibition unfolds in two levels and it features works of art as well as
findings dating from the prehistoric to the Roman era, which are a great example of the cultural heritage of the island.
Town
1. Old Town
The Old Town of Corfu is located between the town’s two ancient fortresses, the Old and the New. Te site has been in Unesco’s World Heritage List since 1997 and this is no wonder as its unique street planning, its magnificent Venetian buildings and its picturesque cobblestone alleys make this place an impressive sight altogether. In the plethora of its
alleys one can see beautifully carved wells, Medieval and Orthodox temples, charming little squares, noble houses, elaborate balconies and pretty yards. There is no doubt that exploring this place is totally worth it.
2. The Old Fortress
The Old Fortress of Corfu stands on a rocky peninsula on the eastern side of town. The island got its name from the twin peaks of the fortress as Coryphe in Greek means peak. During the 6 th century the survivors of the island’s ancient town of Paleopolis that had been completely destroyed by invaders, began to move towards the peninsula in their search of a safer place to settle. There, with what had remained of Paleopolis, they built a byzantine town and fortified it. Later the Venetians, in their effort to make it more secure, made an artificial fosse and therefore separated it from the mainland, while during the British rule it was used mainly for military purposes. Today the Old Fortress is one of the sites that are inscribed on Unesco’s World Heritage List.
3. The New Fortress
As its name suggests, the New Fortress is the newer of the two fortresses of Corfu. It’s an imposing building that stands on the hill of St. Mark above the port. Its construction began in 1576 by the Venetians in order to further strengthen the defences of the island, as the Old Fortress wasn’t enough to cover the town’s needs anymore. It is built in two levels, the lowest of which is a three storey building called Punta Perpetua and on the top there lies the pentagonal bastion of the Seven Winds.
The fortress has been through numerous vicious attacks over the centuries and a large part of it as well as most of the walls that used to join it with the Old Fortress were destroyed by both the British and the people of Corfu just before the Ionian islands became part of Greece in 1864 under the terms of the Treaty of London.
4. Saint Spyridon
The church of St Spyridon is located in the Old Town of Corfu. It was built in 1589 in order to house the saint’s relics, which were transferred to Corfu in 1456. The architecture of the building is a typical example of the single-nave basilica, while its bell tower, which was built in 1620, is the highest spot in town. The impressive Parian marble iconostasis of the church was constructed in 1864 by the architect Meuers, its ceiling is decoraded with paintings by the local artist Nicolaos Aspiotis, while the famous Corfiot painter Spiros Prosalentis is responsible for the church’s icons.
5. Duomo
The Roman Catholic cathedral, which is dedicated to St Jacob the Apostle and St Christopher, is located in the Old Town of Corfu on the eastern side of the St Giacomo Town Hall’s square. During the 15 th century there used to be ruins of an older temple at that exact spot and there is no documented evidence of when exactly Duomo was built. According to one of the most popular versions, sometime between 1431 and 1454, members of the brotherhood of St James and Christopher asked permission from the then archbishop Martinus Bernardini to build there a church and a guesthouse for the needy, the sick and the travellers. The erection of the building was approved by papal bull on July 7 1466. According to another version the intention was to build two chapels dedicated to saints Jason and Sosipater. The temple was consecrated by the Latin Archbishop Jacobus Cocco on December 31 1533.
6. Corfu Art Gallery
Corfu Art Gallery is located on Theotoki 77, near the port of Corfu. It was constructed in 2005 by the Corfiot civil engineer and art collector Michael Angelo Vardis with the intention of promoting the art of Corfu from the 19 th to the 21 st century. It is a contemporary space that permanently houses over six hundred pieces of Michael Angelo Vardis’ collection as well as works by other collectors and artists, while part of its collection is not on permanent display and is presented on certain dates. Along with the Municipal Gallery of Corfu, which hosts works dating from the 16 th to the 20 th century, a visit to both galleries can offer one a complete depiction of the history of Corfu art over the centuries.
Beaches
1. Issos beach
Issos is a beautiful sandy beach about 20km southwest of the town centre. It is an endless virgin seashore with big sand dunes and it belongs to the protected area natura of the Korission wetland. Therefore this is not the place to find rooms to let, restaurants or cafes, only a beach bar that doesn’t function every year. You can access the beach by car and there is also a natural clearing that serves as a parking space. The water is shallow and due to the open sea there are constant small waves that make the place ideal for surfing and water sports. The lush green forest on the northern part of the beach ends in the next beach called Halikounas.
Tip: Don’t miss the sunset from the “Sahara of Corfu”, as Issos beach is often called by the locals.
2. Halikounas beach
Halikounas beach is one of the longest beaches in Corfu as it stretches for over 3km. It is located on the southwest side of the island right next to Issos beach and along the beautiful lake Korission and it belongs to the protected area natura. Lake Korission is the most important wetland on the island and the sand of Halikounas beach is what separates it from the sea. The beach has long been a meeting spot for surfers and kite surfers due to the windy weather of the area. There is also a beach bar that provides sun beds and umbrellas and it gathers a mixed crowd of locals and visitors. It is easily accessible by car and there are plenty of parking spaces.
3. Marathias beach
Marathias beach is about 32 kilometres away from Corfu town and has received a blue flag in 2014. It is a long, golden sandy beach with shallow crystal waters. There, one can find plenty of beach bars equipped with sun beds and umbrellas as well as traditional taverns that offer a great variety of local delicacies.
4. Agios Gordios beach
The beach of Agios Gordios is located 17 kilometres southwest of Corfu town and is one of the most popular beaches on the island, also awarded with blue flag. It is surrounded by a beautiful green mountain full of olive trees, vineyards and impressive rocks. It is one of the top choices amongst visitors not only due to its picturesque scenery but also due to the plethora of hotels, villas, souvenir shops, beach bars and restaurants that spread along it. It is fully equipped with sun beds, umbrellas, showers and water sport facilities.
5. Vitalades
Gardenos beach is located 35 kilometres away from Corfu town, southwest of the island. It has been named after the river Gardenos, which flows into the sea, separating the beach into two regions. It is a sandy beach with shallow crystal waters, which makes it ideal for families. It is an ideal place for those who seek privacy without missing out on the comfort of sun beds and umbrellas, while there are also taverns and restaurants nearby.
6. Glyfada beach
The beach of Glyfada is located on the west side of Corfu, just 16 kilometres away from the town. It is a long sandy stretch of about 2, 5 kilometres and it is easily accessible. Sun beds and umbrellas are available at the numerous beach bars and restaurants on the beach, while there is also a beach volleyball court as well as water sport facilities. The hills surrounding the beach are covered by dense plantation combining the beauty of nature with an idyllic summer setup.
7. Kontogialos beach
On the island’s west coast, just below the village of Pelekas, lays the beach of Kontogialos, just 13 kilometres away from the town. It is a beautiful sandy beach, particularly popular amongst both locals and visitors, as its shallow waters make it ideal for all ages. The beach is organised and it provides sun beds, umbrellas, showers and a beach volleyball court. There are also a lot of beach bars, taverns, rooms to let as well as a hotel unit. A breathtaking sunset awaits anyone who visits this side of the island. The beach is monitored by life guards and a warning flag system is in operation. The beach can be accessed by one of the three roads just before Pelekas village, which end at three different spots along the beach.
8. Paleokastritsa
Paleokastritsa is located 25 kilometres northwest of Corfu town. It is arguably one of the prettiest spots on the island, full of infinite natural beauty and it consists of several sandy beaches that are naturally separated by little capes. The main beach, which is also the biggest and most popular one, is that of St Spyridon otherwise known as Paleokastritsa beach. It is famous for its crystal clear but rather cold waters as well as for its fine pebbly sand. The beach is fully organized with sun beds and umbrellas, while there are plenty of water sports options and boat hiring services for those who want to further explore the island.
9. Agios Ioannis beach
Agios Ioannis beach is located 18 kilometres southeast of Corfu town. It is a sandy pebble beach with shallow waters that make it ideal for families with children. It is organized with sun beds, umbrellas, showers and water sports, but there are also a lot of quieter spots with no facilities if one seeks more privacy.
10. Messonghi beach
Located 23 kilometres southeast of Corfu town, Messonghi beach is a long sandy beach with calm and shallow waters. It’s fully organized with sun beds, showers and changing rooms, while it offers a plethora of activities for all kinds of tastes, such as water sports, diving lessons and organized boat trips. There are also numerous cafes, restaurants and souvenir shops nearby.
An island of incomparable beauty and cultural heritage, utterly unique due to the combination of western architecture, endless nature and innumerable beaches that can satisfy all types of visitors. From adventure lovers who like to explore to those who would rather relax on an organized beach, there really is something for everyone.
A tour around the island’s picturesque little villages will give you the feeling that time has stopped, as there are a lot of places where the Venetian architectural heritage has remained intact. Moreover, the island’s customs and traditions, bursting with vibrancy and color along with the mouth watering regional gastronomy will take the visitor on an experiential journey.
Outskirts
1. Pelekas
Pelekas is a Corfu village located about 13 kilomeres southwest of the centre of the island. This little and very verdant traditional village became widely known due to Kaiser’s throne (also known as Kaiser’s observatory), a monument that lies on its highest spot. It was the spot where the emperor Wilhelm the Second used to escape to in order to relax, think and observe the truly breathtaking view from there. Apart from the glorious panoramic view, one can also enjoy a magical sunset from this beautiful hill.
2. Panagia Vlahernon and Pontikonisi
The picturesque little temple of Panagia Vlahernon is one of the island’s landmarks and it is located below Kanoni on a small rocky island that is joined to the land by a little pedestrian bridge. It got the name Vlaherena or Vlaherna from a big monastery in Istanbul that carries the same name. It is believed that it was built around the 17th century and it used to serve as a women’s monastery up until 1980. Its pedestrian bridge is also used as a place to tie the little boats and fishing boats that come and go to Pontikonisi, a verdant islet situated on the entrance of Halkiopoulos lagoon, right opposite Corfu airport (Ioannis Kappodistrias). During the reign of Otto a monastery dedicated to the Transfiguration of Christ was built there. Due to its natural beauty and rich flora, the islet is a protected area and therefore it can only be visited on certain occasions such as the 6th of August which is the monastery’s celebration day as well as Easter Monday.
3. Angelokastro
Angelocastro is situated on the northwest coast of Corfu, near Palaiokastritsa on top of a steep cliff that stands 305 metres above the sea and it is one of the most important Byzantine castles in Greece. According to historians, the need to transfer Palaiokastro (today known as Palaiokastritsa monastery) to a more fortified position led Michael Angelos the 2nd, son of Michael Komnenos the 1st Despot of Epirus to build Angelokastro in 1214. During excavations that took place in 1997, two early Christian slabs were unearthed, proving that the area was occupied by the early Byzantine period. Its highest point can be accessed by an uphill path and from there one can see almost the entire island, a big part of the Ionian sea as well as the mountains of Greek Epirus.
Sights
Museums
1. Byzantine Museum of Antivouniotissa
The Byzantine Museum of Antivouniotissa is housed in one of the most characteristic ecclesiastical monuments of Corfu city, the church of Kyra Antivouniotissa (Our Lady Antivouniotissa). Already functioning in the 15 th century, the church is the oldest, most complete and best preserved example of the Heptanesean Basilica architectural style. Since 1984, there has been a permanent display of a large and rather important collection of movable icons and heirlooms that date from the 15 th
to the 20 th century. The collection is a full representation of six whole centuries of artistic religious expression and creation in Corfu and the Ionian islands.
2. Museum of Asian art
The Museum of Asian art in Corfu is the only museum in Greece that is dedicated solely to the art and antiquities of India and the Far East. Housed in the palace of st Michael and st George, an imposing neo classical building at the town of Corfu, it boasts an impressive collection of approximately 15.000 works of Asian art. The museum opened in 1927 thanks to the donation of Gregorios Manos’s collection of Sino Japanese art that he had purchased at auctions in Vienna and Paris in the late 19th early 20th century. Many more donations of either entire collections or single items have followed since.
3. Achilleion Palace
The Achilleion Palace is located 10 kilometers southwest of the town of Corfu at the picturesque village of Gastouri. It was built for Elizabeth of Austria (Sissy), who had selected Corfu as the place where her summer retreat would be. The museum
impresses for its architecture, exquisite murals and paintings that decorate its interior as well as a magnificent garden, where one can admire some artistically sculpted statues, such as that of dying Achilles, whom Sissy admired a lot. After the
assasination of Empress Sissy the palace was bought by Kaiser Wilhelm ll and became his summer residence. During Word Wars l and ll, the property was used for a number of purposes and since 1994 it has been functioning as a museum.
4. Casa Parlante
Casa Parlante is the most alive historical museum in Corfu and it is housed in a 19 th century noble mansion in the centre of Corfu old town. The museum brings history to life by recreating a whole different era. The daily life of a 19 th century noble family unfolds before one’s eyes through animated human figures using robotic technology, impressive representation of internal decoration and even sounds and smells of those times.
5. Archaeological Museum of Corfu
The archaeological museum of Corfu exhibits findings from the town as well as from the wider region of the island. Since 1967 the museum has been housed in a two – storey building in the area of Garitsa. In 2019 an extensive project regarding the full restoration of the building complex was completed and at the same time the museum launched the re exhibition of its collections based on a more modern approach. The exhibition unfolds in two levels and it features works of art as well as
findings dating from the prehistoric to the Roman era, which are a great example of the cultural heritage of the island.
Town
1. Old Town
The Old Town of Corfu is located between the town’s two ancient fortresses, the Old and the New. Te site has been in Unesco’s World Heritage List since 1997 and this is no wonder as its unique street planning, its magnificent Venetian buildings and its picturesque cobblestone alleys make this place an impressive sight altogether. In the plethora of its
alleys one can see beautifully carved wells, Medieval and Orthodox temples, charming little squares, noble houses, elaborate balconies and pretty yards. There is no doubt that exploring this place is totally worth it.
2. The Old Fortress
The Old Fortress of Corfu stands on a rocky peninsula on the eastern side of town. The island got its name from the twin peaks of the fortress as Coryphe in Greek means peak. During the 6 th century the survivors of the island’s ancient town of Paleopolis that had been completely destroyed by invaders, began to move towards the peninsula in their search of a safer place to settle. There, with what had remained of Paleopolis, they built a byzantine town and fortified it. Later the Venetians, in their effort to make it more secure, made an artificial fosse and therefore separated it from the mainland, while during the British rule it was used mainly for military purposes. Today the Old Fortress is one of the sites that are inscribed on Unesco’s World Heritage List.
3. The New Fortress
As its name suggests, the New Fortress is the newer of the two fortresses of Corfu. It’s an imposing building that stands on the hill of St. Mark above the port. Its construction began in 1576 by the Venetians in order to further strengthen the defences of the island, as the Old Fortress wasn’t enough to cover the town’s needs anymore. It is built in two levels, the lowest of which is a three storey building called Punta Perpetua and on the top there lies the pentagonal bastion of the Seven Winds.
The fortress has been through numerous vicious attacks over the centuries and a large part of it as well as most of the walls that used to join it with the Old Fortress were destroyed by both the British and the people of Corfu just before the Ionian islands became part of Greece in 1864 under the terms of the Treaty of London.
4. Saint Spyridon
The church of St Spyridon is located in the Old Town of Corfu. It was built in 1589 in order to house the saint’s relics, which were transferred to Corfu in 1456. The architecture of the building is a typical example of the single-nave basilica, while its bell tower, which was built in 1620, is the highest spot in town. The impressive Parian marble iconostasis of the church was constructed in 1864 by the architect Meuers, its ceiling is decoraded with paintings by the local artist Nicolaos Aspiotis, while the famous Corfiot painter Spiros Prosalentis is responsible for the church’s icons.
5. Duomo
The Roman Catholic cathedral, which is dedicated to St Jacob the Apostle and St Christopher, is located in the Old Town of Corfu on the eastern side of the St Giacomo Town Hall’s square. During the 15 th century there used to be ruins of an older temple at that exact spot and there is no documented evidence of when exactly Duomo was built. According to one of the most popular versions, sometime between 1431 and 1454, members of the brotherhood of St James and Christopher asked permission from the then archbishop Martinus Bernardini to build there a church and a guesthouse for the needy, the sick and the travellers. The erection of the building was approved by papal bull on July 7 1466. According to another version the intention was to build two chapels dedicated to saints Jason and Sosipater. The temple was consecrated by the Latin Archbishop Jacobus Cocco on December 31 1533.
6. Corfu Art Gallery
Corfu Art Gallery is located on Theotoki 77, near the port of Corfu. It was constructed in 2005 by the Corfiot civil engineer and art collector Michael Angelo Vardis with the intention of promoting the art of Corfu from the 19 th to the 21 st century. It is a contemporary space that permanently houses over six hundred pieces of Michael Angelo Vardis’ collection as well as works by other collectors and artists, while part of its collection is not on permanent display and is presented on certain dates. Along with the Municipal Gallery of Corfu, which hosts works dating from the 16 th to the 20 th century, a visit to both galleries can offer one a complete depiction of the history of Corfu art over the centuries.
Beaches
1. Issos beach
Issos is a beautiful sandy beach about 20km southwest of the town centre. It is an endless virgin seashore with big sand dunes and it belongs to the protected area natura of the Korission wetland. Therefore this is not the place to find rooms to let, restaurants or cafes, only a beach bar that doesn’t function every year. You can access the beach by car and there is also a natural clearing that serves as a parking space. The water is shallow and due to the open sea there are constant small waves that make the place ideal for surfing and water sports. The lush green forest on the northern part of the beach ends in the next beach called Halikounas.
Tip: Don’t miss the sunset from the “Sahara of Corfu”, as Issos beach is often called by the locals.
2. Halikounas beach
Halikounas beach is one of the longest beaches in Corfu as it stretches for over 3km. It is located on the southwest side of the island right next to Issos beach and along the beautiful lake Korission and it belongs to the protected area natura. Lake Korission is the most important wetland on the island and the sand of Halikounas beach is what separates it from the sea. The beach has long been a meeting spot for surfers and kite surfers due to the windy weather of the area. There is also a beach bar that provides sun beds and umbrellas and it gathers a mixed crowd of locals and visitors. It is easily accessible by car and there are plenty of parking spaces.
3. Marathias beach
Marathias beach is about 32 kilometres away from Corfu town and has received a blue flag in 2014. It is a long, golden sandy beach with shallow crystal waters. There, one can find plenty of beach bars equipped with sun beds and umbrellas as well as traditional taverns that offer a great variety of local delicacies.
4. Agios Gordios beach
The beach of Agios Gordios is located 17 kilometres southwest of Corfu town and is one of the most popular beaches on the island, also awarded with blue flag. It is surrounded by a beautiful green mountain full of olive trees, vineyards and impressive rocks. It is one of the top choices amongst visitors not only due to its picturesque scenery but also due to the plethora of hotels, villas, souvenir shops, beach bars and restaurants that spread along it. It is fully equipped with sun beds, umbrellas, showers and water sport facilities.
5. Vitalades
Gardenos beach is located 35 kilometres away from Corfu town, southwest of the island. It has been named after the river Gardenos, which flows into the sea, separating the beach into two regions. It is a sandy beach with shallow crystal waters, which makes it ideal for families. It is an ideal place for those who seek privacy without missing out on the comfort of sun beds and umbrellas, while there are also taverns and restaurants nearby.
6. Glyfada beach
The beach of Glyfada is located on the west side of Corfu, just 16 kilometres away from the town. It is a long sandy stretch of about 2, 5 kilometres and it is easily accessible. Sun beds and umbrellas are available at the numerous beach bars and restaurants on the beach, while there is also a beach volleyball court as well as water sport facilities. The hills surrounding the beach are covered by dense plantation combining the beauty of nature with an idyllic summer setup.
7. Kontogialos beach
On the island’s west coast, just below the village of Pelekas, lays the beach of Kontogialos, just 13 kilometres away from the town. It is a beautiful sandy beach, particularly popular amongst both locals and visitors, as its shallow waters make it ideal for all ages. The beach is organised and it provides sun beds, umbrellas, showers and a beach volleyball court. There are also a lot of beach bars, taverns, rooms to let as well as a hotel unit. A breathtaking sunset awaits anyone who visits this side of the island. The beach is monitored by life guards and a warning flag system is in operation. The beach can be accessed by one of the three roads just before Pelekas village, which end at three different spots along the beach.
8. Paleokastritsa
Paleokastritsa is located 25 kilometres northwest of Corfu town. It is arguably one of the prettiest spots on the island, full of infinite natural beauty and it consists of several sandy beaches that are naturally separated by little capes. The main beach, which is also the biggest and most popular one, is that of St Spyridon otherwise known as Paleokastritsa beach. It is famous for its crystal clear but rather cold waters as well as for its fine pebbly sand. The beach is fully organized with sun beds and umbrellas, while there are plenty of water sports options and boat hiring services for those who want to further explore the island.
9. Agios Ioannis beach
Agios Ioannis beach is located 18 kilometres southeast of Corfu town. It is a sandy pebble beach with shallow waters that make it ideal for families with children. It is organized with sun beds, umbrellas, showers and water sports, but there are also a lot of quieter spots with no facilities if one seeks more privacy.
10. Messonghi beach
Located 23 kilometres southeast of Corfu town, Messonghi beach is a long sandy beach with calm and shallow waters. It’s fully organized with sun beds, showers and changing rooms, while it offers a plethora of activities for all kinds of tastes, such as water sports, diving lessons and organized boat trips. There are also numerous cafes, restaurants and souvenir shops nearby.
USEFUL LINKS
Ag. Ioannis, Tsaki Stroggyli
49100 Benitses, Corfu, Greece
tel.: +30 26610 72442 - fax: +30 26610 72441
E. info@belvedere-corfu.gr
49100 Benitses, Corfu, Greece
tel.: +30 26610 72442 - fax: +30 26610 72441
E. info@belvedere-corfu.gr