Green paradise with atmosphere
The mediterranean climate of Corfu brings, due to winds, a lot of humidity to the surface. Here it rains more often than on the mainland or other Greek islands, which allows a steady plant growth. The luxuriant vegetation ranges from large olive groves, cypresses, carob trees, holm oaks, wild flowers to herbs, and the dwarf orange tree often seen there is also very characteristic of Corfu. The latter is used to make a truly tasty kumquat jam that you should definitely try. Very dominant in Corfu's green are the silvery olive groves. Today the island has over four million olive trees. Already in the 14th century, when the Venetians ruled Corfu, they paid the farmers premiums for every olive tree planted. The originality of the island gives its guests a special atmosphere of freedom. The hiking trails, such as the one leading to the highest mountain Pantokrator with its monastery and views over the whole island as far as Albania or other beautiful places, are unique. The abandoned and oldest village Paleo Períthia, dating back to the 16th century, was built during the Byzantine period and transports its visitors to times long past. Not to be forgotten are the monastery islands of Vlacherna or Podikonisi, also known as the "Mouse Island", where magnificent monuments of moving history captivate visitors. Also the castle Mon Repos, located on the peninsula of Kanoni, near the old town of Corfu City, where Prince Philip of England was born, is well worth a visit. In this building there is also a museum about the interesting history of Corfu. The small harbour town of Kassiopi, located in the north-east of the island of Corfu, which was the most important town on the island at the time of the Roman occupation (230 B.C.), also has its charm and invites you to visit it.
Ionian island to fall in love with
Corfu offers wonderful dream beaches! In the south you will find more dune beaches, in the north short but beautiful sandy beaches and in the west of Corfu remote sandy bays. Only in the east you can find regularly beside the fine grains of sand some pebbles.
The Porto Timoni Beach is highly recommended. The drive from Corfu town takes about an hour, with a short 20-minute descent from the village of Afionas. Once there you will be rewarded with two idyllic bays with pebble beaches. Please note the absence of shade giving trees and also an umbrella rental or restaurants are not available, so you should think about sun protection and food.
The Paleokastritsa Beach also offers a picturesque beach with a panorama of imposing rocks, green vegetation and turquoise blue sea water. By boat you can explore the many caves and grottoes in the immediate vicinity, which are resting in themselves. A highlight here is La Grotta Beach, where fearless people can jump right between the rocks into the water.
If you are looking for a particularly fine sandy beach, you will find it at Pelekas Beach. Known as one of the most beautiful beaches of Corfu, Pelekas Beach impresses with calm, clear water. It is very suitable for families and you can also visit one of the idyllic taverns for lunch, a coffee or a cool refreshing drink.
In addition to the beautiful beaches of Corfu with crystal clear water, the landscape also offers steep cliffs, which are covered throughout with green and diverse vegetation, creating a beautiful and charming contrast.
Austria's empress "Sissi" had the castle Achillion built on her favourite island Corfu, only about 8 km from Corfu City, following the ancient model, which is a famous and popular sight in our time.
UNESCO World Cultural Heritage
Corfu City is the capital of the approximately 60 km long and 4 to 30 km wide island in the Ionian Sea, bordering the Adriatic Sea, and has been inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List because of its cultural and historical importance and its moving history. The capital, which faces and is situated off the mainland of Greece, has a constant connection to it through its port. Since Corfu became part of the maritime republic of Venice in 1204, a close connection to Italy was initially established, which can still be seen and felt in many places and sights of Corfu today. From the 17th century onwards, the influences of France and England were formative. Only in 1864 Corfu was annexed to Greece. This colourful mixture of different cultural influences can be seen in historical Italian-style splendid buildings as well as in cosy cafés and excellent restaurants in the Liston, which was built in the French style around the Esplananda of Corfu City. You can experience this special flair in combination with the great and relaxed Greek hospitality. The beauty of the Esplanada is due to the French, who from 1807 not only did the planting but also built the arcade galleries. The same architect designed the Rue Rivoli in Paris, which is why Corfu City is sometimes called "Little Paris" due to many architectural parallels.
The Ionian University in Corfu City is as famous as the panoramic view of the two fortresses of the old town, which date back to different eras. Corfu City is also characterized by winding alleys and hidden romantic squares, with a magnificent view of the sea in between. The big church from the 16th century is dedicated to St. Spyridon, the patron saint of the island and in his honour some big processions take place every year. During the Venetian era, in 1663, the present beautiful and interesting town hall was built, which at that time served as a meeting hall for the Venetian nobility.
Book your holiday in a luxury villa with sea view and private infinity pool near the beach or in a beautiful country house. The charismatic island of Corfu is ideal both for a romantic holiday and for travelling as a family.
