Accommodation in this Area

At a Glance

Area Description

Situated in the north-west of Greece opposite Epirus, Corfu is one of the most beautiful Ionian Islands in the Mediterranean Sea. It has an oblong shape stretching from NW to SE; its greatest length is 33 miles and its greatest width is 15 miles. Corfu has brilliant beaches, exquisite scenery and the charm and tradition you associate with the best of Greece, the island is like paradise. Its crystal clear waters, picturesque bays, sandy or rocky beaches and the lush vegetation entice you to wander further. Corfu offers every form of relaxation, entertainment and enjoyment from water sports to cruises, horse riding to sightseeing. There are plenty of beaches to explore, good walks and adventure tours to try as well as numerous places of historical interest to visit.

Corfu is steeped in history and perennially connected to the history of Greece from the beginning of Greek mythology. Its Greek name, Kerkyra or Korkyra, is connected to two powerful water symbols: Poseidon, god of the sea and Asopos, an important Greek mainland river. Corfu is famous for its ancient Greek and Roman remains, old churches, museums, medieval villages and of course the Venetian forts and streets of Corfu Town which are now on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

Corfu Town - Kerkyra is a maze of narrow streets dominated by the 16th century fortress. Around every corner can you can find a chapel, old mansion or secret garden square. The café at the Liston was built by the French in the same style as those in Rue de Rivoli, Paris and is probably the place to 'people watch' while enjoying a Ginger beer. The narrow streets radiating off from the Liston, house small shops of a more commercial nature, mostly dominated by the 'gold shops'. Corfiot craftsmen excel at designing and making Greek jewellery in gold – prices can be very competitive. Among the bustle, look out for those shops and stalls selling local items like wild honey, fig cakes and handmade lace. St. Spiridon's Church, home to the island's patron 'mummified' saint, is just behind the Liston. The church is impressive and worth visiting, but ensure you are suitably dressed.

Many dismiss Acharavi beach probably because it is easy drive past and from the main road it does not look very attractive. Those that make the effort though will be reward with 3km of sandy beach! There are showers on the beach, and the Taverna owners will let you use their toilets if you purchase a drink. There are loads of tavernas and bars close to the beach front and the sea is shallow for children. Glyfada beach has soft, golden sand and is said to be one of the cleanest beaches on Corfu! Great for children, although when windy, watch the waves. A good family beach which is quiet is St Spiridon, park your car though a small lane above the beach. The main beach here has shallow waters and the beach is sandy, toilets and changing facilities can be found. Kerasia is a quiet shingle beach with toilets, showers and changing areas. It is relatively child friendly, the water is quite shallow for a little way out, and it then deepens quickly so caution is always recommended.

The island is very green compared to other Greek islands, the hot and dry summers along with winter rain creates lush vegetation dominated by over 2 million olive trees. These olive trees on Corfu are the main cultivation, after Corfu's tourism which now provides the most income. The tourist season is from early May until the end of October. The hottest (and driest) months being July and August where the temperature will often reach 35c. Some tourists do visit during the winter months and although mild, it can often be wet.

Resorts In Luxury in association with Ski In Luxury