CORFU - VILLAGES

Corfu Town

Corfu Town is the capital of Corfu (Kerkyra in Greek) one of the most beautiful and elegant towns in Greece. It is the principal port of the island and one of the largest and most populated (30,000 inhabitants) towns of the Ionian Islands. Built on a promontory, the town displays a unique architecture which is strongly influenced from the different dominations, such as the Sicilian, the Venetian, the French and the English. From those times, Corfu Town has kept many of its imposing buildings, elegant mansions, superb palaces, French-style flowered squares and beautiful fortresses.

Corfu is separated into a northern and a southern section. The Old Town lies on the northern side between the Esplanade Square and the new fortress. The square of the Esplanade (Spianada) is the central square and largest square in the Balkans. It is surrounded by sumptuous buildings, imposing monuments and an old Venetian fortress which marks the beginning of the modern town. The town is filled with beautiful Venetian neighborhoods, such as Kanoni, where are the ruins of the Ancient city or the beautiful Mandouki. The old quarters have been designated a UNESCO heritage site. There's nothing else quite like it between here and Dubrovnik.

Kassiopi

The village of Kassiopi lies 24 miles north of Corfu Town, opposite the Albanian coasts. This small picturesque fishing village is dominated by a Roman fortress where it is believed that the Emperor Nero once stood. Today, Kassiopi is a cosmopolitan town with several taverns, cafes, bars and accommodation. There are numerous bays around the village of Kassiopi. Coming from the west, the beaches at this side of the village are tiny, windy, full of loungers and not very pleasant. Behind them at the main road you will find the usual resort shops and many cafes. The headland itself contains nicer pebbly beaches where water sports are available and an abandoned castle. Beyond this is a small fishing port that retains its picturesque character. Beautiful houses lie to the east.

Agios Matheos

Agios Matheos is a beautiful mountainous village located 15 miles southwest of Corfu. The village is built amid lush forests on the slopes of Mount Gamilios surrounded by many charming stone houses. Agios Matheos consists of both modern and old buildings, monasteries and beautiful churches. A paved road leads to the Monastery of Pantokrator and the Grava Cave. Gardiki Castle is one of the most impressive ancient sites in the village. The popular beach of Agios Matheos is located few miles away. You can also visit the isolated beach of Halikounas located near the village.

Pelekas

The picturesque and authentic village of Pelekas is situated 8 miles from Corfu Town. It stands on one of the most beautiful hills of the island offering breathtaking panoramic views. The small village is quite busy as it is used as an access point for some of the great beaches nearby. Pelekas beach itself is small with plenty of restaurants and perfect views to the sea. The beach is not so developed, only a few beach facilities are available. Above the beach sits the traditional village where you will find a nice choice of restaurants. From the small hill known as the Kaiser's Throne one can admire amazing sunset views. Right on this fabulous location you will find some modern ramparts and a car park. There is also a lovely cafe overlooking the island. Near the village are the three beautiful sandy beaches of Glyfada, Pelekas and Myrtiotissa.

Lefkimi

Lefkimi is the second largest town of Corfu, 25 miles away in the southern part of the island. It is one of the most traditional villages of Corfu built amid lush green surroundings, in the middle of a fertile plain full of olive trees and vineyards. The village itself is quite picturesque with narrow streets and tall houses, lovely squares and beautiful churches. Worth visiting in the town are the superb churches of Agioi Theodoroi and Agios Arsenios, which are famous for their fine architecture. The port of Lefkimi serves daily ferries to Igoumenitsa.

Benitses

The picturesque fishing village of Benitses lies 9 miles south of Corfu Town. During the last few years, the village has become a cosmopolitan spot without losing its picturesque character and traditional atmosphere. The village retains its authentic beauty. A stroll around the narrow paved streets reveals beautiful traditional details. Tourists arrive with their yachts at the picturesque port of Benitses for a refreshing swim at the crystalline waters of the Ionian sea. Around the coastal village you will find numerous beaches with fine facilities and a superb environment, ideal for families. Apart from the beautiful features of this village, the main attraction is the Shell Museum which hosts the best shell collection of Europe and interesting exhibits. Today this lovely tourist resort offers various accommodation for all tastes and budgets as well as taverns, cafes and bars.

Gouvia

The village of Gouvia counts 600 inhabitants and was built on the site of an ancient Venetian harbor. The largest marina of Corfu island is located here, extremely active during the summer period welcoming visitors with their yachts from every part of the world. The beaches here are not particularly good due to the close proximity to the marina. This attractive village concentrates a wide range of activities and accommodation as well as many taverns, cafes, bars and night clubs. During summer, it is quite busy with an intense nightlife.

Liapades

Liapades is the third biggest village of Corfu situated on the west coast, 3 miles from Paleokastritsa and 12 miles from Corfu Town. It is a traditional settlement that has not yet been affected by mass tourism, retaining its natural beauty, built on a green hill, overlooking the green landscapes and the magnificent bay. Liapades, one of the oldest villages of Corfu is also known for its excellent local wine. The village boasts the original Ionian architecture with Venetian-style buildings. At the central square of the village there are traditional taverns and coffee shops, a meeting point among the locals. The beautiful church of Agia Anastasia, one among the six churches of Liapades built in the 16th century is located here. The church has excellent painted ceilings and remarkable icons. Liapades is a nice destination for hikers, as there are many picturesque paths to explore on foot. Close to the village of Liapades is the main beach stretching for 100 yards, surrounded by green hills and spectacular landscape. The tourist area of Liapades is centered around the beach where many taverns, restaurants and bars are available as well as many local services.

Perivoli

Perivoli is a small village located 22 miles south of Corfu Town and 2 miles from Lefkimmi. This quaint village still keeps its traditional character and architecture in a peaceful natural setting with olive trees and vineyards, stone houses and narrow alleys. Strolling through the paved roads, you will meet taverns and local shops serving drinks and local food. Just a few miles from Perivoli is the small fishing port of Bourkari with boats moored on the sides. The wider area is surrounded by hills and farmlands. The village is close to beautiful beaches while the best nightlife option is close to the village of Kavos.