CORFU - BEACHES

Paleokastritsa

Paleokastritsa is arguably the most famous picturesque village of the island of Corfu located 15 miles northwest of Corfu Town. The word Paleokastritsa literally means old fortress, based on the existence of such a castle on the rocky cave where now stands the Monastery of the Virgin. The village of Paleokastritsa offers a plethora of local taverns overlooking the blue bay and six sandy and pebbled beaches which are scattered all around the area. Those beaches are surrounded by olive tree forests creating a dramatic yet beautiful scenery. This cosmopolitan resort stretches along a coastal road around stunning bays and a picturesque harbor where the excursion boats depart for nearby and isolated beaches. The settlement itself retains its traditional charm and character whereas today it is considered one of the main tourist attractions in Corfu displaying a great number of hotels, bars and restaurant. At the end of the road, right after the main harbor is the Monastery of the Virgin that dominates the village. The monastery hosts an interesting collection of post Byzantine icons, books and other objects. The main beach of Paleokastritsa is quite small but extremely known for its cold waters and delightful environment. It is considered as one of the best beaches in the Greek islands. It is surrounded by many bars and taverns therefore it is rarely quiet during the day. The area offers some excellent sea views.

Agios Gordios

It is one of the most popular beaches of Corfu and it took its name from the church of Agios Gordios located literally on the sea, at the center of the beach. The beautiful cove is nestled among the lush green mountain surrounded by olive tree forests, vineyards and impressive rocks. To reach the beach of Agios Gordios you pass through a beautiful road full of vineyards and high olive trees. The beach offers plenty of tourists facilities to enjoy comfortable sunbathing. The crystalline waters are ideal for a refreshing swim while water sports are also available for both children and adults. During the say, the beach is quite noisy with children playing in the waves. The beach is bordered by the impressive Ortholithi, a huge rock emerging from the sea.

Glyfada

One of the most popular beaches of the island, Glyfada is located 10 miles west of Corfu Town. It is awarded with the Blue Flag for its crystal clear waters, the soft sand is surrounded by tree-covered cliffs and imposing rocky formations. The beach offers a wide variety of beach facilities like sunbeds and umbrellas, water sports facilities, shops and taverns. Glyfada attracts mostly young crowds and it is usually noisy.

Myrtiotissa

Mirtiotissa is a sandy paradise surrounded by the majestic landscape of lush green cliffs and crystalline waters. The beach was characterized by the English writer Lawrence Darrell as the loveliest beach in the world for its dramatic and stunning surroundings that attract thousands of visitors. It owns its name to the beautiful Monastery of Myrtiotissa which stands on the slopes of the lush green mountain, some feet above the sea. This idyllic beach retains its unspoiled character and there are no tourist facilities available. You can access the beach by bus from the main town. Once you reach Myrtiotissa, then you will have to continue through a long path that leads directly to the beach. Those who want to visit the monastery will take the road that goes uphill. After 300 yars you will see the monastery.

Nissaki

A lovely sandy shore surrounded by rock formations, it is ideally located between the villages Barbati and Kassiopi, 14 miles north of the main town. This small beach that is situated well away from the road and offers only a few tourist facilities. Nissaki bay is protected from the strong winds, nevertheless the water becomes gradually deep. It is a great place for families, the soft rocks on either side are safe for children activities. The water is so clean that you to see the rich marine life and the beautiful underwater landscape. Next to the beach is a small quaint port where fishing boats moor. The beach is surrounded by nice taverns serving fresh seafood and local delicacies.

Issos

Issos is a beautiful beach located 22 miles away in southern of Corfu. The endless seashore with the unique sand dunes and the crystalline waters offers an ideal destination for families. The rich flora divides the shore from the most important wetland of Corfu, the Korission Lake. Along the sandy beach lie plenty of tourist facilities and a variety of beach equipment. There is also a lifeguard tower and a water sports center. Issos is affected by the strong winds and it is probably the best place for windsurfing and kitesurfing. The lush green forest and the lake make it a unique spot for hiking while the high sand dunes offer excellent sunset views. At a close distance, there are bars and taverns.

Canal d'Amour

The village of Sidari is quite known, located 22 miles from the main town. The village is surrounded by a charming landscape full of lush green forests. Nearby, to the west is the famous Channel of Love (known as Canal d' Amour) an idyllic area with unique rock formations that form a series of wonderful coves and canals. The rocks run in different shades of yellow and lots of greenery at the top. One can reach these stunning coves through several paths and steps. With beautiful crystalline waters, the Channel of Love is one of the most unique spots in Corfu. According to the tradition couples who swim through the narrow canal will get married soon. The beach is not recommended when it is windy.