Corfu, Greece Area Information
A fascinating island with a profusion of charming mountain
villages, a rugged, scenic coastline and an aristocratic capital,
rich in Venetian palaces and fortresses.
Being the most northern of the Ionian Islands, Corfu is privileged to have some of the best beaches to be found anywhere in Europe.
Those to the west are predominantly virgin, sandy and gently shelving, those to the east smaller, pebbly coves. A total of more than 30 hold coveted Blue Flag status.
Inland you will find a seemingly infinite number of picturesque, traditional villages where a simple way of life has remained largely intact over the decades. Higher up the lush mountainsides lie a myriad of olive groves and the occasional remote and deserted hamlet. Two forts dominate Corfu Town, a 6th century original and a later 13th century counterpart.
The focal point of the capital is the elegant esplanade
alongside the bustling main square and park, home
to the island’s famous cricket pitch. Nearby the
famous arcaded Liston, built to resemble the Rue de
Rivoli in Paris, is lined with elegant cafes.
Make time to visit Mon Repos, the 200-year-old summer residence of the Greek royal family and birthplace of our own Prince Philip. A 10 minute boat ride from Corfu Town takes you to the small island of Vidos formerly an ancient Venetian fortress, latterly used as the Corfu 'Alcatraz' and now, thankfully, a tranquil nature reserve, perfect for a gentle stroll. Pontokinisi or Mouse Island is a tiny tree covered islet housing a lovely Byzantine chapel and convent. Ferry boats run regularly from the Kanoni Peninsula, a short drive from Corfu Town.
Heading north, pass through Barbati with its lovely Blue Flag beach, the pretty and tiny shingle beach at Nissaki with its respected waterfront tavernas is also well worth a visit. The nearby Bay of Agni has a small harbour whose tavernas have little wooden jetties built out into the water.
Driving north, stop on the headland overlooking the exquisite bay of Kalami, famous for its literary connections with the Durrell family. Their 'White House' is easily spotted from the headland and makes for an interesting visit.
The bay of Kerasia is one of the most photographed beaches on the island yet also one of the least visited, thanks to its remote location, perfect for those wishing to escape the crowds.
Avlaki, in the north, enjoys a long stretch of white pebbly beach whilst neighbouring Kassiopi boasts a pretty waterfront walk from the attractive harbour, around the old 14th century Venetian castle that once protected the area.
To the west of Corfu lies the 13th century Venetian fortress of Angelokastro. To the South is the scenic little town of Paleokastritsa with its 13th century monastery overlooking the bay. Travel onward to the attractive hilltop village of Pelekas, famous for its sunsets.
Further south, near to the salt-water lagoon
at Lake Korission, lie the remote beaches of
Chalikouna, Prasoudi and Skidi. The lagoon itself
and its unspoilt sand dunes extend for miles and
is a designated nature reserve, home to an array of
wildlife including turtles, lizards and various
migrating birds.
Local Cuisine
Being so close to Italy, Corfu has some of the finest
and most varied cuisine in Greece, thanks to the
influence of the Venetians. Specialities include the
famous bourdetto (a spicy fish stew traditionally
made from freshly caught scorpion fish), the
scrumptious range of seafood pasta dishes and
locally made ice creams.
Corfu has many Ouzeris, simple bars often around harbours, which offer a selection of 'mezes'. Traditional 'meze' can range from a few olives and a little feta cheese, to a large platter of peppers, tomato, octopus and Calamari.
Saints' days
Corfu's patron saint is St Spiridon, famous for
performing miracles. It is said that when the
Turks attacked on August 11th, 1716, St Spiridon
appeared with a lighted torch, scaring the invaders
away. This day is celebrated every year, along with
his official 'name' day, on December 12th.
Climate
Corfu has a unique climate, different from the rest
of Greece. Its waters are calm and sheltered from
summer breezes, with hot summer months from
mid May to mid October.
Getting there
There is a good choice of direct charter flights to
Corfu from UK airports including Gatwick,
Manchester, Birmingham, Nottingham E. Midlands,
Stansted and Newcastle.