An Ionian island renown for its sun-drenched greenery and ombre shores, Corfu sits along the west coast of Greece beyond the Aegean Sea. It’s easy to see why legends play homage to Corfu as Odysseus’ last port of call on his decade long journey; its volley of mountains is a proud silhouette above unspoiled villages and fine beaches, its people pleasant and inviting. With easy access thanks to a local airport and ferrying services to nearby islands, Corfu has become a node-star for Greece hopping travelers.
Sitting on a jut of land is Corfu Town in all its pastel Venetian glory. 15th century architectural structures top the list as must-see attractions, featuring an Old Fortress and New Fortress on opposite ends of town, inclusive of tunnelled streets and mosaic-decorated chapels. But Corfu’s main tourist area lays in the south, Benitses a wealth of hearty meals, quaint village charm and home to an unusual Shell Museum. You can also revisit history at the remains of Roman Baths, or more notably Empress Sissy’s Achillion Palace at Gastouri village.
No Greek island is complete without a hike or two. Mount Pantokrator boasts breathtaking views from its hamlets of Strinila and Spartila. Other attractions along the rocky coast include the village of Palaiokastritsa – its pocketed bay and hilly terrain home to a scenic monastery and stunning castle. For more of the sea, Roda and Sidari’s beaches are incredible getaways, doling out layered sunset views. Beaches at Glyfada and Ai Gordis hold similar allure, perfect for an afternoon of tanning and splashing about.
Rainy weather is the norm in the winter, innermost hilly areas even welcoming possibilities of snow at the peak. Where summers draw out long and hot, averaging at 30℃, the transition between summer and autumn are comparatively milder with welcome sea breezes.
