Last updated on November 7th, 2023 at 12:58 pm
Enjoy your coffee or drink in the center
of Benitses Square.
An unforgettable experience…
Lotza | Lounge Cafe Benitses, Corfu – Greece
Tel.: +30 26610 71090
Last updated on November 7th, 2023 at 12:58 pm
A quiet bar during the day time where you can relax and enjoy your coffee by the sea turns into a lively bar at night where inside are served unique cocktails in a beautiful environment with unique music that differs.
In the centre of the village, 10 meters from the beach next to the marina of Benitses.
Last updated on August 14th, 2024 at 09:45 am
Hotel El Greco
Kaizer bridge – Corfu – Greece
Contact Mr. Dimas Dimitris
Reservation phone numbers: +30 26610 72093 , +30 26610 72023 +30 26610 39188,
Home phone: +30 26610 81407
Fax: +30 26610 72461
e-mails: [email protected]
The hotel is located 9 miles south of Corfu town and just 1 mile north of the picturesque village of Benitses, on the Lefkimi national road.
It is built above the eastern slopes of AchillionΒ Palace Hills, just 10 meters from the sea, with 43 hotel rooms in the class of 2 stars and 16 apartments belonging to the category of 3 keys, we offer quality services to visitors to Corfu since 1982.
Our large swimming pool is next to the bar at the top of the building.
The view from almost every room is panoramic towards the southern part of the island, to the Continental
coasts of Epirus and Albania, and up to Mouse Island and the peninsula of Kanoni.
Its central position makes it ideal for those wishing to explore the entire island, the sights of Corfu town, the entire east coast, and the amazing and vast beaches of the west and south of Corfu.
Last updated on November 7th, 2023 at 10:23 am
Tsaki area (300 yards from Benitses)
Benitses – Corfu P.O 49084
Telephone numbers for reservations:
2661072383 β 385
email: [email protected]
Located 13km from the town of Corfu and only 10 minutes walk from the picturesque fishing village of Benitses.
Built at Tsaki area in the south part of Benitses, on a hill just above the sea, therefore has the privilege to offer the same panoramic views from all rooms.
We offer accommodation in 17 spacious and tastefully furnished twin Rooms and in 6 Triple Rooms, all overlooking the sea.
Our guests have occasionally left the best comments mainly on family hospitality and feel that familiar with and for friends who have created during their stay in our hotel and still confirm with repeated visits.
Other amenities our hotel offers are Maid Service, Bath/Shower, Telephone, Fridge, Kettle, Balcony – Veranda, Sea View, and a large swimming pool in the bar area.
Whether you’re after hotel deals for a special occasion or family vacation, we wish you pleasant memories and the sweetest of dreams.
Our cozy family-owned and run hotel and apartments are nestled within a private olive grove.
All rooms and apartments overlook the beautiful coastline of Corfu and the beach of Tsaki which is awarded the European blue flag for its crystal clear waters, is just about 30 meters away.
A perfect getaway for couples and families to relax in solitude and privacy.
The country setting of Karina Hotel affords guests the opportunity to sit on our large veranda observing the spectacular sunrise without a schedule or group breakfasts.
Just wander to the pool site snack bar to find fresh fruits, home-made baked goods, an assortment of hot and cold cereals, specialty teas and coffees, and other goodies. Or, if you prefer, eggs and sausage are available to be prepared when and how you like.
Enjoy the sun by the freshwater swimming pool, in a setting of natural beauty, to help you soothe the stress of the everyday routines.
Take a stroll around the village of Benitses, then enjoy a cocktail with friends at our veranda.
Free from the distractions and stresses of daily life, the Karina Hotel is more than a place to sleep……
17 Twin Rooms β Maximum Occupancy: 2
6 Triple Rooms β Maximum Occupancy: 3
Each bedroom has a character and charm all of its own.
The rooms are spacious and tastefully furnished.
All with balcony, panoramic sea view, and spectacular views of the Sun and Moonrise.
Last updated on July 16th, 2025 at 07:28 am
In Benitses, 50 meters from the entrance to the marina, on the highway.
With a nice interior room and a comfortable summer flower-filled courtyard.Enjoy your meal overlooking the sea at 20 meters from your table.In our tavern you will find:
Various appetizers made by us.
Greek local wine (white and black), retsina and cold beers and many options with ouzo and raki.
GOOD APPETITE.
Last updated on November 7th, 2023 at 12:58 pm
One of the best restaurants in Corfu, restaurant and grill specializing in the delicacies of local Corfiot cuisine and fresh fish.
We have our own production of wine and fresh vegetables from our garden.
PAXINOS restaurant is a family-run in cozy traditional surroundings, decorated so that it blends perfectly with the flavors and keeps unaltered in time all old Corfiot recipes.
It operates all year round and is located right at the entrance of the village of Benitses and just 50 meters from the main road.
Our kitchen is located in the same room with the main hall creating a warm and friendly environment while just beside there are two more halls that can accommodate small events such as baptisms and weddings.
We are always available for any information on our phone at +30 26610 72339.
Last updated on July 16th, 2025 at 07:27 am
This page is about nightlife, specifically in Benitses, a small resort in Corfu. If youβre looking for Corfuβs nightlife overall β click here to read the full Corfu Nightlife Guide.
Visitors of Benitses seeking intense nightlife will not be very excited.
The large majority of tourists who are visiting Benitses now are towards relaxing and slumbering holidays, and taverns and restaurants are more suitable for them.
Today, nothing reminds the full-of-life and intense nights during past decades, when there were more than 100 bars as well as a dozen nightclubs staying open until early in the morning.
The waves of mass tourism that characterized the decades of the 70s, 80s, and 90s are a distant memory. Witnesses of past decades are the remnants of abandoned discos next to supermarkets and restaurants.
Idiot’s guide: Larger image? Right-click on any photo and open it in a new tab or window.
If you are wondering what this is below? It was the entrance of the Paradise Club, I mean, what is left now, there isn’t any better angle to take a good shot, as the place is surrounded by uncontrolled vegetation.
Today, the nightlife in Benitses is quiet, and it takes effort to discover and record the few bars, if any, that offer dancing music and stay open until late.
If you insist on searching the internet to find more bars, you will simply be disappointed because all have been closed or turned into restaurants.
So Benitses nightlife simply follows the habits of tourists, it is a low profile and is offered for couples and quieter customers.
While there are still a few bars around, although counted on fingers, and a big club that operates on special occasions, the nightlife is not what attracts visitors to the village anymore.
Of course, if travelers want to spend a pleasant evening, there are many options in neighboring places, especially in the city of Corfu, and for the most unrestrained of them in Kavos.
Benitses, after going through a difficult transition period, was there from the mid-90s and for more than a decade, with a big drop in tourist income, managed to redefine its goal. Finally, it transformed into a tourist center based on culture and the traditional way of life. This was done with the help of the beauty of the landscape and the very good restaurants in the area.
So, Benitses today are aimed mainly at families or couples and offer visitors only quiet, intimate bars, taverns, and lounges.
Also, many locals stopped their activity with tourism and got involved with more traditional occupations, such as fishing, which has been revived. This feeds fresh fish to the market stalls along the main road and especially the restaurants that offer fresh seafood in Benitses.
These are all we know about the nightlife in Benitses. We may be missing some, as shops and bars are changing names and owners very frequently, and we heard that some new bars are opening.
NOTE: The bars-shops above are not clickable! They are just there for informational reasons.
Last updated on November 7th, 2023 at 10:24 am
Within the first ten days of August, the festival of sardines was organized.
It was a relatively new festival that was organized only for the last decade, but with increased success and attracting more people every year.
To celebrate Sardines looks pretty far-fetched but if we take into consideration that Benitses once was a fishing village, the largest in Corfu and that the people in the past lived by fishing they had every right to create a celebration for the most popular fish, the sardine.
On the day of the feast large quantities of sardines cooked and offered for free to all visitors, it was of course not possible to miss the various traditional bands and partying till late.
Update October 11, 2019, : In recent years and for various reasons the custom has weakened and the festival is not happening.
We cannot delete the article but we must inform you so that you do not include it in your plans.
Last updated on November 7th, 2023 at 10:24 am
July 17 is the celebration of Agia Marina, the patron Saint of Benitses, and the festival to honour her.
The church of Agia Marina, was built on the banks of the river that once passed through the village and now is on the road that goes through the old village.
The river carried the boats that took flour up to the mills situated near the present-day aqueduct.
The church remained in the same place after the river was diverted.
The feast of Saint Marina lasts for two-day (July 16th & 17th) but it may go on for longer in the future.
Itinerant stall holders occupy the best positions days beforehand and the air is smoky from the stalls grilling kebabs and turning lambs on the spit.
There is a really festive feeling, as dancing and singing go on until the early morning and for those two days, Benitsesβ inhabitants are joined by visitors from all over the island, as well as from overseas.
Last updated on July 6th, 2025 at 05:41 pm
Category of Women – aged 50 + years 1st Pangalou Dionisia
Category of Women – aged 40 to 49 years 1st Fiona Fitzrou 2nd Katerina Papageorgiou 3rd Kritikou Elena
Category of Women – aged 30 to 39 years 1st Katerina Koukakis 2nd Jokuti Andrienn 3rd Lessi Maria
Category of Women – aged 16 to 29 years 1st Gkorogia Georgia 2nd Eleni Kosmas 3rd Kourlesi Eleni
Category of Men – aged 60 + years 1st Moltsas Athanasios 2nd Vradis Christos 3rd Maspace Karl
Category of Men – aged 50 – 59 years 1st Tzanetis Dimitrios 2nd Mathesis Spyros 3rd Gkoutormp Kallikrates
Category of Men – aged 40 to 49 years 1st Nikas Thomas 2nd Koligiotis Theodoros 3rd John Xanthopoulos
Category of Men – aged 30 to 39 years 1st Poulimas Nikolaos 2nd Katsaros Arsenis 3rd Michael Matsis
Category of Men – aged 16 to 29 years 1st Vlasseros Haralampos 2nd Domazetovic Alexander 3rd Paskai Elias
Category of Women – aged 50 + years 1st Attolico Maddalena 2nd Caradonna Angela
Category of Women – aged 40 to 49 years 1st Vinou Hera 2nd Softova Lyoubomira 3rd Acconciaioco Luisa
Category of Women – aged 30 to 39 years 1st Kourlesi Joanna 2nd Metallinou Zoi 3rd Lattanzio Cinzia
Category of Men – aged 60 + years 1st Torre Michelle 2nd Collela Carlo
Category of Men – aged 50 – 59 years 1st Siffano Gaetano 2nd Griesi Grancesco 3rd Radichhio Biagio
Category of Men – aged 40 to 49 years 1st Agathos Spiros 2nd Divittorio Francesco 3rd Cardillo Giuseppe
Category of Men – aged 30 to 39 years 1st John Stamatopoulos 2nd Cheimarios Alexandros 3rd Mineccia Andrea
Category of Men – aged 16 to 29 years 1st Ruta Federico 2nd Gerochristos Christos 3rd Phanariotis Dionisios
Last updated on July 6th, 2025 at 05:41 pm
Update October 20th, 2019: In recent years Achilles’ race is no longer happening, this article has only historic value!
The union of the Ionian Islands with Greece is officially celebrated here on May 21st when schools, armed forces, fire department, and other organizations parade in Corfu Town, accompanied by the bands of the City, and in the presence of local dignitaries.
About ten days later, usually on the first Sunday of June, the annual Achillian race takes place, taking its name from the former municipality of Achillion.
A semi-marathon in which anyone can participate regardless of sex or age.
The route passes through the villages of the municipality and after about 21 km the athletes finish in Benitses, where the awards and medals are presented.
Each year the race is upgraded, and last year athletes from all over Greece took part, and also many from Italy.
Following the event, there are performances by local dancers, singers, and musicians.
The Achilleian race is organized every year to develop sports incentives on the island of Corfu, where very few sporting events with an international character are taking place, but also to promote the diptych “SPORTS & FITNESS”.
Participants can include athletes from the Athletics Federation, sports clubs, Health Club Runners, veteran athletes, students and fans of both sexes.
Crowned with success for the fifth consecutive year, is the Achilleian Road Race of 10 000 meters and the semi-marathon of 21km, run for the first time on Sunday 23 May 2010, starting from the centre of Kynopiastes School and the nursery of the Municipality of Achilleion respectively, and both ending in the main square of Benitses.
Taking part in the race were athletes belonging to the powerful Athletics Federation, clubs, associations of runners for health, veteran athletes and general participants from Corfu and mainland Greece.
The participation of athletes from the city of Patras, which this year honored the game, was particularly impressive but runners also came from Trikala, Preveza, Igoumenitsa Agrinio, Athens, Kozani, Kavala, and for the first time about 60 athletes from Italy.
The athletes’ participation surpassed all expectations, as the number of participants exceeded 300 people.
Finishing first in the General Ranking and the race of 10, 000 meters in the men’s category was Thomas Nikas from Corfu and in the women’s category athlete Evangelia Donta from Corfu.
In the semi-marathon, in the men’s class, John Stamatopoulos of CMS Patras was first, and in the women category Gratsani Paraskevi from Trikala came first
The supporting organizations contributed significantly to the success of the event, primarily the Police Department of Achilleion, the Corfu branch of the Greek Rescue Team, the motorsports team of Achilleion, the Greek Red Cross, the clinic “THERAPIA”, the Primary Health Care of Moraitika (provided an ambulance during the race), the P.E.P.F.A.of the prefecture of Corfu, the Amateur Sports Association, the prefectural officer of Corfu Mr. Amoiridis, the CF Athletics Federation, the Association of Crete, the Corfu Athletic Association, the group of football and volleyball VOLIDA, the Sports Karate Association of Achilleion, the Athletic Club Kerkyra, the Cultural Association of Benitses and many citizens.
It must be noted that funding came from the organizing Region of the Ionian Islands and the NEW BALANCE, and GETIL (MESIMERIS – Skiadopoulos), Germanos, and Dionysis Chalikias.
Communication sponsors were the broadcaster TILEKERKYRA and radio stations RADIO CORFU, POP FM and LIFE RADIO.
There were also substantial contributions by the individuals: Mr. Nick Perros, Mr. G. Psailas, Mr. Nikos Moschos, Mr. Christos Vradis, Mrs. Stamatella Pouli, Lambrini Gioti and Elena Poulimenou as members of the Organizing Committee.
The awards ceremony included dancing by the cheerleader Schools of Nante Rizos and Mika Giourgas and the Dance Department of the Cultural Association of Benitses, while the signal for the race’s start was given by the Mayor of Achilleion Mr. Erotokritos Karidis and the President of O.N.A.D.A Mr.Spyros Kardamis with the presence of the Philharmonic bands of Gastouri and Kynopiastes.
It is worth noting that during the awards ceremony for the winners O.N.A.D.A. plaque honoring Paul Skordilis recognizing his contribution to sports events on the island was unveiled.
GREEK REPUBLIC FROM THE PRESS OFFICE OF THE MUNICIPALITY OF CORFU
Held last Sunday (5/6/2011) the 6th Achilles Road Race of 10,000 m and the semi Marathon of 21,100 m., starting in the center of Kynopiastes School and nursery of the Municipal Unit of Achilleion respectively and finished at the main square of Benitses.
In the event took place athletes belonging to the power of Athletics Federation, clubs, health associations runners, veteran athletes and fans from Corfu and mainland Greece.
Impressive was the participation of athletes from Patras honored this year of struggle, but also from the cities of Ioannina, Preveza, Igoumenitsa, Athens, Thessaloniki and about 100 athletes from Italy.
The athletes exceeded their participation in 250 and reached the finish of around 200 of them.
Finished first in the General rank in the path of 10,000 m in the category of men, Nikas Thomas from Corfu and in the category of women Koukakis Catherine, while on the road of 21,100 m in the category of men finished first the athlete John Stamatopoulos athletic federation of Patras, who scored a record, and in the category of Women Kourlesi Joanna.
The success of the organization contributed substantially, the Police Department of Achilleion and Corfu Municipal Police, Corfu Annex of the Greek Rescue Team, the motor Sports team of Achilleion, the Hellenic Red Cross, the General Hospital of Corfu, Corfu General Clinic Primary Health Care at Moraitika (provided an ambulance during the race), the Department P.E.P.F.A. Corfu, SP Athletics Federation, the Association of Judges, the Corfiot Athletic Club, the football team VOLIDA, the Sports Karate Association of Achilleion, the Cultural Associations of the area and many residents.
It should be mentioned that contributed to the organization: the NEW BALANCE, the DIELLAS and Accounting Office of Georgia Mitsi, while media sponsors were the Broadcasters CORFU CHANNEL and START TV and radio stations STAR FM, RADIO CORFU, POP FM, KYMA FM, IONIAN RADIO, ANTENNA CORFU, new radio, and LIFE RADIO.
The awards ceremony included dancing cheerleaders from the Rizos Nantes and Mika Giourga schools of Dance and the Dance Department of the Cultural Association of Benitses In awarding the medals and cup winners attended the Aldermen Erotokritos Karidis, Barbara Vlassis, Anastasios Potamitis, Alexandros Poulis, President of the cultural organization, sport and environment of the City Mr. Spyros Pandis, and the President of the Local Benitses Community Mr. George Spinoulas.
Results of 6th Achilles Race and Achilles semi-marathon (6-6-2011)
The 7th Achilleian race took place on Sunday 3 of June 2012, at 9 a.m.
The starting point for the seventh Achilleian race of 10,000 meters was at the School of Kynopiastes village, the athletes followed the road to Ponti’s crossroad, then they reach Vrioni area and arrived at Chrysida, then Perama, Kaiser Bridge and finally ended at the square of Benitses.
The 7th Achilleian Semi Marathon of 21,100 meters was started at the municipal nursery Unity Achilleion on the National road, the athletes followed the direction to Ponti area, crossing the villages of Kastellani, Kouramades, Kalafationes, Agios Prokopios, and then through Lefkimis National road reached Perama, Kaiser Bridge and finished at the square of Benitses.
See the results of the seventh Achilleian race here:
Achilleian Semimarathon 21.000m – results here: Β 2012-achilleian race 21.000m – results
Achilleian race 10.000m – results here:Β 2012-achilleian race 10.000m – results
Last updated on November 7th, 2023 at 10:25 am
The cultural association was founded in 1982 by some young people, aimed to promote and preserve the traditional customs, but also the cultural enhancement especially of young people.
It had been interested in events like book fairs, screenings of quality films, exhibitions, photography exhibitions, and also training of people particularly for sensitive health issues like sex education, protection of young people from sexually transmitted diseases, etc. doctors were invited and were given lectures for those issues, things very daring for the most conservative part of the society of that time.
Today this cultural association is more focused on events, celebrations, traditions, customs, and festivals.
The Association currently has committed and organizes almost all the events that have occurred in Benitses.
Now consists of two traditional art forms, a dance and a musical set from young children to adults.
These groups participate each year in many local and cultural events outside the Prefecture of Corfu, but also instances of the municipality of Achilleion, and the annual festival of folkloric dances in the Municipal Theatre of Corfu.
Last updated on July 27th, 2024 at 11:32 am
The local community events have always been based on tradition, and decades ago were as spontaneous and natural as the other everyday events of life.
The feast of Saint Marina was a spontaneous celebration centered around her church, which is the oldest in the area.
Children waited impatiently for the toys that were laid out on benches around the church.
We also remember watching the children leaping over the fire on the feast of St. John on June 22 and also the traditional winter holidays around Christmas.
Time has brought inevitable changes, of course, now everything has become more organized, lasts longer, and is perhaps more commercialized.
It was founded in 1982 by some young people with the aim of promoting and preserving traditional customs, and raising awareness of the importance of these especially for the young people……more
The service for the Blessing of water are organized with solemnity on the feast of the Epiphany, as is the procession of the Epitaphios on Good Friday,
On Easter Monday, and on the following Sunday there are processions, following a service in the small chapel of Agios Nikolaos in Tsaki, southern Benitses, and end in the main square.
Both processions are accompanied by the band of the Municipality of Achilleion.
The Resurrection on Easter Saturday is now followed by a mass firework display.
This is a new development.
The display starts at midnight and is as spectacular as the famous one in Esplanade Square’s bandstand in Corfu Town.
On 22nd June, the day of St. John, the Women’s Association of Benitses has undertaken the responsibility to organize the celebration of his feast day with Lampatines (jumping over fires).
The Lampatines are the fires of St. John as we call them in the Ionian isles.
In recent years the union of Corfu with Greece in 1864 is officially celebrated here on May 21st when there is a parade of the schools accompanied by the band of the City in the presence of officials.
One or two days later, depending on climatic conditions, an annual Achilleian race has been established, a semi-marathon race in which anyone can participate regardless of age.
Update October 20th, 2019: In recent years Achilleian race is no longer happening.
July 17 is the celebration of the festival of Agia Marina, the patron Saint of Benitses.
The church of Agia Marina was built on the banks of the river that once was passed through the village where now is the road that goes through the old village.
The river was used by the boats that carried flour to the mills which were sited near the present aqueduct.
The church remained in the same place after the river was diverted elsewhere.
The feast of Saint Marina lasts for two days (July 16 & 17) with plans in the future to lengthen it further.
The Itinerant stallholders arrive early in order to get the best positions.
Dances and songs go on until early morning hours and for those two days, Benitses is packed with visitors from other parts of the island as well as from further away.
During the first ten days of August, the festival of the celebration of sardine was organized.
To celebrate this small fish sounds far fetched but if we remember that Benitses once was a fishing village, the largest in Corfu and that the people in the past lived by fishing they had every right to create a celebration for the most popular fish, the sardine.
On the day of the feast, large quantities of sardines were cooked and offered free to all visitors, who can also enjoy dancing to the music of the various traditional bands and the partying till late.
Update October 20th, 2019: In recent years and for various reasons the custom has weakened and the holiday is not happening.
We cannot delete the article, that now has historic value, but simply inform you so that you do not include this festival in your plans.
Last updated on October 6th, 2023 at 11:57 am
A small video showing purse seine vessels and fishing boats as they were fishing in the decades of 60-70 and 80
Last updated on July 6th, 2025 at 05:41 pm
Let’s clarify. When we talk about Roman baths in Benitses, don’t picture the grand public Roman baths found throughout the ancient empire.
Here, we’re referring to just a simple house in ruins once owned by a relatively wealthy Roman citizen who used it as a summer residence almost 2,000 years ago.
It was a typical Roman house with running water, hence the exaggerated title “baths,” and adorned flooring suggesting its affiliation with a wealthy family. As you notice we never use this title, we call it as it is, a Roman house with pipes for running water.
The floor is from a later period and features an elaborate arrangement of black and white marble pieces. It’s the only significant remnant of the building, but unfortunately, it is now buried underground and inaccessible to visitors.
The decision to bury the floor again and fence the site stemmed from tourists’ behavior, as they used to take small pieces of the floor as souvenirs. This led the Antiquities Authority to bury it, preserving what remained after the looting by “civilized tourists,” (those who now know how to write ‘good reviews’ on this… Tripadvisor) and enclosing the area with a metal fence.
This was deemed necessary as the archaeological value of the site wasn’t considered high enough to justify a permanent guard.
Given the sheer number of ancient, buildings in Greece, assigning guards to all is impractical. In essence, the site holds minimal archaeological value.
However, the orchard and the surrounding area are systematically cleaned 4-5 times a year to prevent the vegetation from engulfing the building within a few months.
This information is shared to set realistic expectations for your visit. We’ve come across amusing reviews on Tripadvisor that highlight the importance of managing expectations.
There are remains of a Roman villa with baths on the Kapsokavadis family land, in the centre of the village of Benitses.
At the East end, there is a large hall (Caldarium in Latin), with dimensions 4.70 x 6m, its entrance is from the north and the housing is based on arches (ride).
The walls are almost one meter (90 centimeters) thick and are built of the same size bricks and mortar, in some places the stones are irregular, elsewhere there are bricks and mortar, and preserved at the bottom are sections that were probably made of marble.
In the four corners and the centre of each wall are clay water pipes.
The floor has a very colorful mosaic with geometric jewels and has a rectangular opening communicating with the basement area (hypocaust) whose central area was surrounded by a vaulted corridor.
In the South wall, there is a small semicircular niche, its floor is lower than the rest and separated from the rest by a low wall.
Left of the semicircular apse there is a rectangle.
At the west end, there is a corridor (with dimensions 0.90 X4, 80m.) that was barrel-vaulted.
Southwest of the first room there is another arched room (Frigidarium), whose dimensions are 4,40 X5,50m.
The floor is of a later period and contains pieces of black and white marble. On the north side, a low wall separates this room from the water tank to the north whose base is 2.50 m lower down.
Other large areas have been partly excavated in the adjacent property to the west.
Of the top of the building, nothing has been saved, and of course, there is no trace of any roof.
Because the access to the monument is a bit weird… as it is hidden behind houses, we prepared a little guide with photos of the trail that leads there, from the main road right up to the monument.
Somewhere in the village’s inner main street, just opposite the entrance of the Marina, you’ll spot Captain Octopus restaurant on the left (first picture) and the old characteristic renovated house of the second photo on the right.
You must walk to the end of the yard between those two and at your right-hand side, you will find the narrow path of the third photo.
Don’t be discouraged, follow this path and after 3-4 yards on your left side, you will see the narrow street of the fourth photo.
Arriving at the end of it you will find an opening as shown in the fifth photo, after 50 more yards on your right you will find the baths as they look in the last picture.
Roman remains are not something many visitors associate with Corfu, but traveling around you can get glimpses that show you that their occupation was definitely not a quick holiday stop!
Many conquerors have left their marks on the island, the history of Corfu is a fascinating glimpse into power struggles, and the rise and fall of dynasties.
The Roman period is less well known than later times but was an extremely important time for the island.
Legend says that Nero watched a play in the theatre at Kassiopi– now disappeared sadly.
There are however Roman remains to be found in many villages around the island, Acharavi, Moraitika, and Benitses to name but a few. Indeed in Benitses, the remains of a splendid Roman bath with mosaics can be seen.
One of the most famous naval battles in history, in Actium, where Augustus Caesar (then Octavius) destroyed the fleet of Antony and Cleopatra, was fought in the seas just south of Corfu, and Caesar’s victory was celebrated by building a large city near the modern town of Preveza, called unsurprisingly Nicopolis, which in Greek means Victory City (Niki = Victory & Polis = Town).
At the northern end of the Corfu channel, on the Albanian coast, is located the remains of Butrint, an important archaeological site containing Roman remains, as well as relics of older Greek civilizations that have colonized this coast.
Corfu has always been very important strategically, as the entrance to the Adriatic Sea.
The main road to Rome, the Appian Way, began at Brindisi, the Italian port a bit to the north of Corfu, where today’s ferry passengers also disembark.
It was also the gateway to the eastern empire and for ships needing to refresh supplies of food and water, it was an essential stop.
Last updated on July 13th, 2025 at 12:21 am
When we try to bring memories from Corfu of the 60s, 70s, and ’80s, the first place that comes to mind is Benitses.
In the early 60s, the first visitors began arriving in Benitses.
Many were wealthy and famous and were looking for beautiful traditional places such as Benitses.
Stage and screen designer Roger Furse and his actor and playwright friend Emlyn Williams had both bought land and built villas overlooking the sea, as had the publisher Hamish Hamilton.
Benitses was visited by famous actors and singers of the era, such as Peter Ustinov, Rex Harrison, Vivien Leigh, and Laurence Olivier.
Paul McCartney, Ava Gardner, Warren Beatty, Paul Newman, Doris Day, Gregory Peck, and Audrey Hepburn were among others who fell under the spell of the peaceful village.
Most of them saw it as an escape from civilization and the paparazzi of the era; they used to spend their time on the beaches and in the two or three traditional taverns that existed then.
Vivien Leigh planned to buy a home nearby, and during the last years of her life, she visited her friends here in summer and winter.
George Harrison of the Beatles spent several days in Benitses water skiing.
Another regular visitor was John Lennon, who stayed in Agios Ioannis, three kilometers south of Benitses, in a room behind the restaurant of the Pachis family.
Inspired by the landscapes of Benitses in their songs, were Moody Blues used to play their wooden guitars on the Kaiser’s bridge.
From a 1967 album, with paintings of the painter Giannis Migadis, is the old cafe “Skaloma”. The photo was found on a blog; unfortunately, it is of very low resolution.
The music producer of the Bee Gees, Saturday Night Fever, Jesus Christ Superstar, and other notable productions, Robert Stigwood, made his appearance usually with his large yacht and used to organize big parties before leaving.
We can’t forget Cat Stevens, who, when out with a group of young friends, borrowed the guitar of the young Kostas Zochios. A few months later, he sent a new guitar as a gift to Kostas, this guitar is still treasured.
Although we have quite a rich collection of old photos, unfortunately, there is none with these people, but as we are sure that somewhere there are some, we will continue looking.
All of these may seem strange to today’s youngsters, but it is part of our history and perhaps interesting for other people who are a bit older.
It was the time that Benitses began to build their reputation, which during the 70s, brought a big wave of organized tourism, especially young women who came to Corfu not only for the sea and sun. The golden era of the “Greek kamaki”, a term known by older generations.
It was a beautiful era, a time that today’s sixty-plus-year-olds remember with nostalgia.
Just saying it brings back memories
Saying Spiros on the beach means a small seaside restaurant which, in a very short time, became the ultimate legend of Corfu nightlife during the 1970s and early 80s.
All the following photos belong and were made public on Facebook by Chris Hayward, who was theΒ DJ at Spiros on the Beach during the 80s
Spiros on the beach was nothing remarkable, a small building a few square meters large, with an outdoor dancing area merging seamlessly with the beach.
This space was covered with the simplest material possible, with mats around the side and forming a roof.
Loud music of the era was played, simple lighting effects were used, and in the middle was a primitive wooden dancing floor.
All these were the ingredients that formed the almost legendary Spiros on the beach, the most “in” place of the 70s, the nightclub, the disco as they called them then, which every tourist visiting the island of Corfu was bound to visit!
From 1975 until 1985 it was the undisputed king of the Corfiot nightlife, gathering more than 3000 people every night, some to drink, others to listen to music, dance, and have a good time, and some to engage in the informal “sport” which increased the Greek reputation for being great lovers, the famous harpoon!… Kamaki!
The small bar was not able to accommodate all patrons and at some point, the customers paid for the drinks with banknotes without getting any change back, there was no time, and the pressure was so great, but despite paying three or four times more than expected they still felt happy that they had managed to get a drink at Spiros on the beach.
This mix was created in 1982 and digitized in 2008. Our purpose was to provide just a taste of the 70s by playing only a few seconds from the most popular hits of that era.
Spiros on the beach had such an impact on youth at the time that the music sounded from the loudspeakers helped shape the musical taste of youngsters of the 70s.
Its reputation had surpassed the confines of Corfu, and especially in Great Britain, it was well known. “Spiros on the beach” was a place that many older people still remember.
Today, the area looks deserted, apart from some old abandoned buildings; there is nothing there, as the owner Spiros Poulis died young at the age of 50.
This article was written to keep the memories alive. This disco was a big part of the history of tourism for our village and made a tremendous contribution to the tourist promotion of Benitses at the time.
We found a Greek night barbeque ad of Spiros on the beach, it was September of 1974!!!… Certainly written on a typewriter and then came out on photocopies, computers did not exist then either in our imagination, click it to read.
Benitses then was the center of Corfu nightlife, its name became synonymous with nightlife, and it helped to bring more tourists in the following decade, the 1980s.
For over twenty years, Benitses was the holiday mecca for hordes of young British tourists, who were brought by major tour operators from the UK, although some were Greek-owned.
There was a time when on a road only two kilometers long were over 100 bars, nightclubs, and dozens of shops, Benitses had 10,000 people every night.
Those who lived here saw many tourists, some staying in the village, but others coming from all over the island who came to party the night away.
Meanwhile, the locals continued their lives by fishing as usual; that’s a small video from that era.
Then the problems began and increased every year, and there was a reaction by local people who objected to the drunkenness, promiscuity, and vandalism of some of these young people.
The tourists themselves were also unhappy, even young ones often complaining that they did not like to go out at night because of the bad behavior of others.
Inevitably, there were quarrels between local and foreign men over girls. The party had stopped being fun.
In the early 90s, the local people began to react, and many tourists were also complaining to the tour operators, some demanding refunds.
Tour companies began directing young people wanting to go crazy to go somewhere else.
For years later the number of visitors continued to decline as the village tried to live down its ‘party’ image.
A large number of shops, bars, etc., could not be sustained and closed one after another.
Get a glimpse of what is left from the photos below, and just consider that some buildings are missing, for instance, the club Babylon, which remembers it? We will add some photos soon!
If you are wondering what this is below? It was the entrance of the Paradise Club, I mean, what is left now, there isn’t any better angle to take a good shot, as the place is surrounded by uncontrolled vegetation.
In the above photo, you see the bay of Koutsomaroula as it was in 1960; then, there were only two or three houses, with the biggest one in the center.
It was the summer villa of the shipowner Pateras (Pateras is the Greek word for father), the father of the former(2011) President of the football club Panathinaikos.
Later, shortly after 1980, the villa was sold and demolished, and a nightclub called STADIUM was built there, a nightclub with a huge capacity and full of life.
Today, STADIUM operates as a nightclub and in recent years has become a popular venue for weddings, christenings, banquets, and other events.
Well, here’s the scoop: it’s recently changed hands, now owned by the same folks who run the luxury Angsana Hotel in Benitses.
Whispers in the wind suggest there are plans for posh villas to grace the spot, but that’s the extent of our intel for now. Exciting times are ahead, right?
Last updated on July 13th, 2025 at 12:22 am
Today, Benitses is still developing, trying to attract more discerning visitors by upgrading the infrastructure whilst being careful to preserve the traditional look that it has never lost.
Tourism remains the main source of income for residents, but a lot of efforts are being made to keep improving the infrastructure to attract an increasing number of visitors.
The current priority is to complete the harbor and the new yachting marina so that it will start to bring income to the village.
Other important projects, such as a large artificial beach and the paving of internal roads, are planned, but unfortunately, due to the present economic crisis, we are experiencing that these plans are currently on hold and remain a dream.
Despite the current economic problems, those residents who have the skills and ideas feel obliged to strive to implement the plans and achieve as much as possible.
We must not sit back because of the crisis but keep trying for a better future, because even if it happens that Europe does not exist in the form we know it, Greece, Corfu, and Benitses will still be here, it is our home and we must keep it vital and alive.
We found an old photo of Benitses taken in 1940, taken from almost the same position as the current picture, so we thought it was useful to put them together to see firsthand the huge changes that time has brought.
We see the differences, the current picture is taken from a point about 50 feet ahead and a little more left from this of 1940, that is the only difference.
The mountains are the same, but the coastline has inevitably been developed. The truth is that the picture of 1940 shows a much more pastoral scene …. those electricity wires of today look terrible anyway…
Last updated on July 16th, 2025 at 07:26 am
Benitses Marina lies in the charming village of Benitses on the beautiful Greek island of Corfu.
You’ll find yourself strolling along the promenade, bathed in the warm Mediterranean sun, as you take in the breathtaking views of the Ionian Sea.
What makes this picture-perfect scene even more special is the heart of the village – the Benitses Harbor. Let’s dive into the story of this harbor, from its historical roots to the modern-day experiences it offers.
Benitses itself is known for its beautiful beaches, traditional charm, and vibrant local culture, making it a popular destination for tourists and boating enthusiasts.
Apart from Benitses and Gouvia Marina in Corfu, there are thousands of incredible boat and yacht rentals across Europe and options worldwide for travelers of all ages looking to experience the water.
If you are interested in a full report about other boating destinations across Europe, there is a good report here about the Top 15 Boating Destinations in Europe for 2024
Benitses Marina offers a charming and peaceful spot for boaters exploring Corfu and the Ionian Sea.
Itβs an excellent choice for those seeking a more relaxed and traditional Greek island experience.
To truly appreciate the significance of Benitses Marina, we must delve into its historical roots.
The residents of Benitses have long relied on fishing and the cultivation of citrus and olives as their primary means of sustenance.
Naturally, a shelter for their fishing boats was essential, and so they decided to take matters into their own hands.
Work on the harbor commenced with the dedication of residents and a handful of mechanical aids. In the early stages, the process was labor-intensive and community-driven, as seen in old photographs of those initial efforts.
It’s important to note that the construction of the current marina didn’t entail the destruction of a beach, as some might assume. Instead, it involved expanding the old port by filling in part of the harbor to create a larger land area.
Over the years, two significant engineering projects have taken place in the harbor area, inevitably altering some of its picturesque landscapes.
A notable development was the shifting of the road away from the houses, addressing safety concerns, and accommodating the increasing traffic flow.
The first infill project began in 1972, covering the creek in the old port area where the road now lies.
The second major project took place during the construction of the marina in 2002, covering nearly the entire area within the old harbor’s boundaries.
The Benitses Harbor has come a long way since its inception. Historically, it was a bustling fishing harbor, and its transformation into the Benitses Yacht Marina commenced in 2002 as an extension of the existing port.
While it is officially complete, some equipment has endured wear and tear over the years due to a lack of upkeep and maintenance.
However, fret not! The harbor’s future looks bright. Soon, the Benitses Yacht Marina will officially fall under the purview of the Municipality of Corfu and resume its regular operations.
This step is bound to rejuvenate the harbor and breathe new life into this picturesque corner of the island.
The Benitses Yacht Marina was conceived to attract affluent visitors and their yachts.
The idea was to offer top-notch anchorage facilities to entice these travelers while boosting the local economy directly through mooring fees and indirectly through their spending.
However, the marina currently faces some challenges due to equipment shortages and damage, coupled with a lack of official operators.
As a result, its operations are somewhat rudimentary. Many ships are moored here, and there’s a growing demand for space.
Residents are eager to clarify the commercial status of the port.
In March 2021, the Greek government made a significant move by leasing the tourist boat shelter to a private company for the next 15 years, with the possibility of two 5-year extensions.
Maritime Projects secured the lease for an annual amount of β¬250,000, along with approximately 2% local tax on turnover.
While this lease promises financial benefits for the Municipality of central Corfu, the local community of Benitses is expected to receive only a meager annual sum of β¬5,000 from the β¬250,000 lease revenue. Understandably, this has sparked some local controversy.
The lease also imposes restrictions on the company, preventing it from operating cafes or restaurants, and only allowing a leisure bar.
The decisions surrounding the lease were made after discussions (at least this is what they said) with the local council, which is closely aligned with the ruling party.
As per the contract, the lessor is responsible for providing the necessary studies and permits for the port at their expense.
Following the granting of the operating license and the first round of repairs, the harbor was expected to start operating at the end of June or the beginning of July 2021.
An official inauguration ceremony took place on July 5, graced by the presence of a government minister.
For local professional fishermen, there’s a silver lining: 10 berths at the tourist port of Benitses are available free of charge. Additionally, amateur fishermen will have access to the sea via a ramp for their boats at a nominal cost.
The fate of the parking lot space remains uncertain. While there are rumors that it will reopen as a paid service after repair work is completed, this is not explicitly stated in the contract.
Fortunately, the parking area became operational again in 2022, albeit with a small and reasonable fee. But after a year or so, it became a parking lot only for the customers.
Athenian Yachts S.A. announced the acquisition of Benitses Marina in Corfu, following a contract signed on October 14, 2024. This move continues the companyβs vision for expanding its operations, which began in April 2024 with the acquisition of 50% of Messolonghi Marina. From now on, Benitses Marina will serve as the sole charter service base on the island of Corfu, replacing Gouvia Marina.
Benitses Marina is one of only 9 marinas worldwide to receive the 5 Gold Anchors award from the Yacht Harbour Association for the exceptional quality of its services. Additionally, it has been certified as an International Clean Marina and has been declared βBest Marina 2023.β
In essence, the Benitses Marina, once a vital fishing port, has evolved into a significant tourist hub.
Its journey through history, challenges, and recent developments is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of this picturesque village on the shores of Corfu.
Whether you’re a traveler seeking a glimpse into the island’s heritage or a maritime enthusiast eager to explore the Ionian Sea, Benitses Marina offers an array of experiences and stories waiting to be discovered.
Last updated on June 27th, 2025 at 09:16 am
Last updated on July 16th, 2025 at 07:26 am
There are many things to do in Benitses during your holidays, as this cosmopolitan tourist destination offers plenty of activities for all tourists.
Located 12 km south of Corfu town on the island of Corfu, Benitses holds a vibrant past as a picturesque fishing village.
However, today it has transformed into a busy tourist resort, attracting a multitude of visitors, while remarkably preserving its natural beauty and old-world charm.
Occupying a significant stretch of the central east coast of Corfu, Benitses extends from the enchanting Mouse Island and Perama in the north to Agios Ioannis Peristeron in the south, where the renowned Marbella Hotel can be found.
The old village exudes a traditional ambiance, nestled amidst lush woodlands that create a truly serene backdrop for its 1000 inhabitants.
Meandering through its ancient streets, one might be momentarily transported to a quaint mountain village in Greece, yet the sparkling sea remains just a stone’s throw away.
The coastal road of Benitses is adorned with hotels that cater to the utmost holiday experience. From restaurants to cafes and various shops, every need of even the most discerning visitor is met with utmost care.
Bounded by the majestic Stavros and Agioi Deka mountains on one side, and the captivating aquamarine waters of the Ionian Sea on the other, Benitses is embraced by natural splendor.
Pharmacy
Maria Kontostanou
Tel: 26610 71161
Emergency – Ambulance
Tel: 166
Doctor’s office
Dr. Dimitris Tsevas
Tel: +30 2661 071204
TAXI Station
Tel: 26610 33811
Police Station
Tel: 26610 72222
The coastline gracefully curves, forming two idyllic bays that enhance the allure of the landscape.
The village owes its captivating beauty to the very land upon which it has stood for centuries. Historical records authenticate its existence as a settlement that has thrived throughout the ages.
Combined with the warm hospitality of its residents, who possess an appreciation for diverse cultures, Benitses becomes a delightful tourist haven that deserves a prominent spot on your travel itinerary.
During your stay in Benitses, there is an array of captivating activities and sights to indulge in and relish. Here are some of the most enticing options:
Starting from the village, many trails on the slopes of the mountain can be crossed on foot or by bicycle.
These paths are hidden in the lush vegetation and lead to the villages of Gastouri, Stavros, and Agioi Deka, and some trails go to the water sources with their aqueduct.
By these paths, there are many small churches scattered on the slopes of the mountain, such as Agia Paraskevi, Agia Triada, Agios Nikolaos Vrysiliotis, Taksiarches, Evaggelistria, and others.
The effort in walking up to Stavros or Agioi Deka or the knoll of Agia Triada (300 meters high), will reward you with superb views over Benitses and the middle east coast of Corfu.
There used to be a unique sea museum in Benitses until recently.
It was owned by the former diver Mr. Sagias and had a huge collection of shells, fossils, sponges, corals, and stuffed large fish. One of the largest collections of its kind in the Mediterranean.
Sadly, after the death of the owner in 2018, the museum closed down.
For historic reasons, let’s quote some information about the former Sea Museum of Benitses.
The museum’s collection was huge, some of the most important exhibits were the KYPRAIA foultoni shell, the shell Melo Amphora, the HALIOTIS IRIS from New Zealand, one of the most beautiful in the world, TRIDACNA GIGAS probably the largest in the world, other poisonous shells, rare starfish, small and large stuffed fish, rare sharks, piranhas from the Amazon, shellfish and many others.
More than half of these rare species were collected by Mr. Sagias himself. They came from Australia, the Philippines, the islands of Samoa, Fiji, the coral reefs of Australia, and other places.
The shell “KYPRAIA Fultoni” (Cypraea Fultoni) of the Cypraeidae family was one of the rarest in the world and was bought by Mr. Sagias from a fisherman in Mozambique, where it was found in the belly of a fish.
For the shell “Melo amphora” of the “Volutidae” family, Mr. Sagias has already applied for entry in the Guinness Book of Records because it is perhaps the largest in the world. It was found on the island of Rosemary of the archipelago Ntampier, North of Australia.
In the museum, there was also a blue shark bought in Athens from a fisherman.
The museum has been honored for its contribution with an international award by the Italian Institute of Marine Research, I.R.E.D.A
Archaeological excavations in the estate of the Kapsokavadis family unearthed ruins of a Roman villa and the remnants of hot baths dating back to Roman times.
The baths are relatively well preserved, and the decorative mosaics on the floor are visible.
Even though they are almost hidden behind some rows of houses, it is not difficult to visit them; the baths are only 50 meters from the main road and can be reached through a narrow passageway between houses, which leads directly to them.
The passageway is not entirely public; the first part belongs to private properties, but stays open to enable other people to use it as a passage to their houses too.
But you’d better discover more about the monument, along with a photo guide that helps you find them, on the page about the Roman Baths
3 km from Benitses at the edge of the village of Gastouri is the Achilleion Palace, a three-story building that was built in 1890 by the Austro-Hungarian Empress Elisabeth, also known as Sisi.
The architecture of the building is a combination of the Doric and Ionic styles, with many statues of ancient gods, philosophers, and personalities of the classical era. But above all, it is dominated by the statues of the mythical Hero Achilles, who gave his name to it.
After the murder of Elizabeth by an Italian who stabbed her in Geneva, the Palace was bought by Kaiser Wilhelm of Germany, who used it as a summer residence.
During the First World War, it became a military hospital.
As tourism grew during the 80s, it became a casino, but today it is a museum and a favorite excursion destination for many visitors. We hope that after reading more about Achilleion Palace, you will join them too.
There are some very old and beautiful buildings in Benitses, some of them more than 5 centuries old.
Each one has a history, and it is worth the time to spend photographing and admiring them.
Examples are the old tall building at the entrance of the port, the building of the town hall, and some others, which unfortunately have changed after renovation.
But you’d better see them all with the details on the page about the historic old buildings of Benitses.
If you plan to rent a car, or you have your own, it makes it easy to explore the vast sandy beaches of the west and southern coast. They are close. More on the page about the Corfu beaches
Every day, there are small boats from Benitses harbor offering daylong cruises to the mainland town of Parga and the village of Sivota (Mourtos), also to other parts of Corfu, and the island of Paxos.
Mourtos (the ancient Sivota) is an area of unsurpassed beauty and unspoiled beaches, with numerous small islands that contain many strange, large caves with hundreds of wild pigeons.
The boats can sail inside the caves where the water is incredibly clear so that the bottom can be seen despite the depth, which can exceed 20 meters.
During the trip, you’ll get the chance to swim between the islands, imagine how it feels to swim between 3-4 and five small islands.
Paxos and its neighboring island of Anti-Paxos also allow you to explore our nearest, but very different and exotic, neighboring islands.
During your Benitses vacation, you should not miss the opportunity to enjoy such a trip. You can book the trip through your hotel or with some tourist agent offices on the main road across the port.
Also, if you go to the harbor at 9 am, you can join the boat on your own.
Also at the harbor entrance, during the afternoon, there is a ticket for cruises to the south of the island, to Paxos, across the mainland coast at Parga, as well as to the north of Corfu and some places in Albania.
July 15th to August 23rd is the season for the most special events and festivals. If you get your holidays this time of the year, you will have the opportunity to participate in some of the Corfu traditions and customs, which become louder and longer each year.
One of these is the feast of St. John the Lampatari on June 22 in Benitses, a traditional festival in which, according to the customs, people jump over fires.
Then, on August 6th, is the feast of Pantokrator, which is celebrated on the famous Mouse Island.
August 15th is the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, a great celebration in the nearby village of Stavros.
On August 23rd, there are festivals in the nearby villages of Gastouri and Agioi Deka.
There is a Sardine Festival on 10th August at Benitses.
But the largest feast of all is on July 16th and 17th, the festival of Agia Marina in Benitses.
The Cultural Association of Benitses organizes, supervises, and takes responsibility for this event.
The folklore group of Benitses presents Corfu dances wearing traditional costumes. The Association of Women in Benitses offers traditional food, sweets, and local products. A folk orchestra plays until the early morning, and there are also dozens of vendors selling toys, souvenirs, paintings, and so on.
Because there can be no celebration without eating and drinking all kinds of dishes, and especially kebabs and lamb on the spit are available in plentiful supply.
Within the first ten days of August, the festival of sardines was organized.
It was a relatively new festival that was organized only in the last decade, but with increased success, and attracted more people every year.
To celebrate Sardines looks pretty far-fetched, but if we take into consideration that Benitses once was a fishing village, the largest in Corfu, and that the people in the past lived by fishing, they had every right to create a celebration for the most popular fish, the sardine.
But we have bad news for you. Unfortunately, the festival didn’t make it through financial and other difficulties and stopped!
Let’s hope that shortly, it will arise again.
Some of the best food quality and flavors restaurants on the island are here.
Benitses is now a culinary paradise at surprisingly low prices!
There are restaurants with great diversity, some offering traditional Greek and Corfiot cooking, but also Chinese cuisine, grills with meat or fresh fish, pizza, and many others.
The 400 years of Venetian rule have strongly influenced Corfiot cuisine, which is a mixture of Greek and Italian with a strong emphasis on fish and seafood in general.
Benitses’ culinary scene ensures that every meal is a delightful experience, allowing you to savor the flavors of Corfu fully.
Your holidays in Benitses are an opportunity for you to try some of the most famous local dishes, such as:
– Sofrito: thin strips of veal lightly sauteed in a pan with a white sauce of garlic, parsley, white pepper, white wine, salt, and vinegar. Served with rice or mashed potatoes.
– Pastitsada is the most famous Corfiot dish, cooked with beef, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper. The sauce contains olive oil, tomato, onion, cinnamon, cloves, garlic, salt, pepper, and nutmeg, and is always accompanied by pasta.
Pastitsada in villages is made with cockerel, but Pastitsada can also be made with fish.
Pastitsada made with cockerel is the local favorite. But everyone has their unique variations of this recipe.
– Bianco: Fish and potatoes cooked in a sauce of finely chopped garlic, parsley, lemon juice, and black pepper.
– Bourdeto: Boiled fish and Scorpionfish are the best, but other fish, such as bass, can also be used.
They are cooked with chili pepper, chopped onions, and lemon at the end. In the traditional Bourdeto, we never use tomato sauce.
Bourdeto is very tasty with octopus too, it is made with more onions and chopped potatoes boiled together.
– Tsigareli: Various wild vegetables and herbs cooked with onion, garlic, and plenty of spicy red pepper and tomato.
Before going home, you must remember to buy the traditional Nougat called Mandolato and candied kumquats. You can get these in any supermarket, but also in the proper cake shops.
Of course, there are dozens of other restaurants that are equally good, and you will enjoy finding your personal favorite.
Look here for more restaurants and more details about the Corfiot cuisine.
There are dozens of bars and cafes in Benitses where you can enjoy coffee, beer, ice cream, or a drink.
Those in the center of the village are also popular meeting places for the residents.
If you do not want to do any of the above, you can just laze on one of the pristine blue flag beaches, where you will find sun loungers and umbrellas.
There are water sports like water skiing, parachuting, jet skiing, windsurfing, pedaloes, and motorboats.
Boats can be hired for sailing, and there is an opportunity for diving a little further away.
In Benitses harbor, you can ask for information or hire a boat through your hotel.
On the beach next to the harbor, there is a lifeguard who guarantees the safety of the swimmers.
The whole seaside in front of the village is suitable for swimming, but there are only three main beaches in Benitses.
Lately, nightlife has become a low profile, compared to the notorious 80s; it is very different and quieter, but still pleasant, though.
There are some small bars and some nightclubs which can become very lively at times… but the problem is that the kind of tourists who visit Benitses cannot maintain a lively nightlife.
In the picture, though is a club from …another era!
With these captivating options awaiting you, your stay in Benitses is certain to be filled with delightful experiences and cherished memories.
Surely, for the above reasons and many more, Benitses in Corfu should be a high priority on your travel list!
Last updated on July 16th, 2025 at 07:25 am
This is a page dedicated to F.C. Benitses, the Athletics football club of Benitses.
It was the early 70’s in Benitses when the first embankment in a portion of the old harbor with a view to transferring the old highway to its present location was almost completed. The huge space that was created was available for the first time to young people and many children of the time. This place transformed quickly into a football vacant lot. It was an area of about 60 by 40 meters, a large enough space for the children to exercise their football skills all day.
Then the idea for a football team dropped by some; it did not take much thought. Some people agreed, and after some discussions, they decided to establish a sports club with football as the main sporting activity.
The first general meeting of the founding members was 30 on January 1971, in which, among other things, they decided to establish an athletic club under the name: “ATHLETIC FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION OF BENITSES”. The statutes were also approved by the General Assembly on November 30, 1971
Also appointed that the club will celebrate on the 12th of December!
Validation of the Statute in the Court of Corfu took place the 10/5/1972!
The 25 founding members of the club were:
KONTOSΒ NIKOLAOS of BASILEIOS
KAPSOKAVADISΒ MICHAEL of KONSTANTINOS
KONTOS ANDREAS of ANASTASIOS
SPINOULAS GEORGE of APOSTOLOS
SPINOULAS GEORGE of ANTONIOS
SPINOULAS SPIROS of ANTONIOS
MEGALOGENIS THANASIS of NIKOLAOS
GIANOULIS GERASIMOS of STEFANOS
PAGRAKIOTIS PETROS of PISISTRATOS
POULIS SPIROS of NIKOLAOS
ZOHIOS KOSTAS of ALEXANDROS
ZOHIOS SPIROS of MICHAEL
ZOHIOS KOSTAS of NIKOLAOS
ASPIOTIS ANDREAS of GEORGE
MORAITIS JOHN of THEOFANIS
MANESSIS STEFANOS of PETROS
LITSARDOPOULOS THEODOROS of THEMISTOKLES
ATSALIS ANTONIOS of ATHANASIOS
ANDRIOTIS SOTIRIOS of SPIRIDON
SPINOULAS GEORGE of THEOCHARIS
STRATHGOS NAPOLEON of ANASTASIOS
SPINOULAS KOSTAS of THEOCHARIS
POULIS DIMITRIOS of CHRISTODOULOS
KOK GABRIEL
RALF AUGUST
We collect and will soon add historical details on the progress of the team from 1971 until today, in which categories have taken place, which persons have served as presidents of the team, what distinctions and championships the team has won, and how after several years of inactivity the club became active again in 2012, winning after an excellent performance during the first competitive year (2012-13) the anode to the local A division.
The administration of the team is always in direct contact with the supporters who love the team, also the team maintains websites on social networks (Facebook, etc. ) with which those who live away from home are informed about the results and the efforts of the club.
Last updated on July 13th, 2025 at 12:34 am
The history of Benitses begins when it was first inhabited. This was in ancient times and was because of the abundant freshwater springs with which the area was favored.
It is estimated that 80% of the water in Corfu is in the hills here, stemming from the limestone rocks of the mountains of Stavros and Agioi Deka, which surround the valley.
The ruins of Roman baths and other finds demonstrate that not only was it inhabited, but that it was also a particularly important part of the island.
During the period of the British domination of the island, the water springs here were channeled and an aqueduct built to provide Corfu Town with water, but the Romans almost two thousand years earlier had created something similar. Their persistence in building projects such as aqueducts, roads, etc. is famous.
In 1269CE, Charles Anjou, the French King of Sicily, occupied the whole island of Corfu; hence followed the ‘period of Anjou.’ It was then that the island was divided into four departments-regions called Gyrou, Orous, Mesis, and Lefkimis, respectively – names that are still in use today.
In the battles that took place then were also ships from Genoa.
One of them sank off the old fortress, and all the surviving sailors swam ashore.
The conditions of the time did not allow them to return home, and so they remained on the island.
One detail, the Genoese captain was called Spinoula, and all the sailors were named after him by the local people, and finally, they all ended up with the surname Spinoulas.
This is a story regarding the origin of the many Spinoulas families around the island, which we have no reason to doubt because it was told to us by a member of the Spinoulas family!
In 1537, the Turks, in one of several failed attempts to seize the town of Corfu, took 20.000 men from the rural areas prisoners and sold them as slaves in the slave markets of Egypt and Constantinople.
This was a massive humanitarian disaster and nearly caused the extinction of the island population. The countryside was devastated, and there were not enough people to cultivate the land and tend the olives, which were the main product of the island.
The Venetians saw the danger and gave privileges and land to those from the Ottoman-occupied Greece who wanted to come and settle in Corfu.
So a wave of immigration was created, mainly from Epirus, mainland Greece, the Peloponnese, and even Crete.
The vast majority of residents of Benitses come from those who settled here at that time, the names with two syllables as Zochios, Bellos, Boikos, Kontos, Nastoulis, etc, come from Epirus and especially an area called Souli.
The name Moraitis is from the Morea (Peloponnese).
Many others whose names end in ..opoulos came from the Peloponnese, and others from the island of Crete.
Most of the present inhabitants of Benitses (about 70%) have their distant origins from Epirus.
There are several theories about the origin of the name, and many resemble the folk tales told by older people.
One of them says that the name belonged to a pirate who came to admire and loot the village, while others say that the pirate’s boat was called Benitses!
This theory is more like a legend that has little to do with reality, but it adds color to our history.
The true origin of the name Benitses is clearly shown in official government documents from the period of the Angevins and before the Venetian period when even in the 13th century the area was referred to as Penitisai, a word derived from the Ancient Greek word “Penio” that means a place that has rivers and is generally rich in waters.
Indeed, Benitses is rich in water and used to have two small rivers which reached the sea where the harbor is now.
Later, the name Penitisai changed over the years into Penitsai and finally into the current Benitses.
So the people settled on the banks of the river during the Middle Ages, and this river and its sources helped them survive and flourish.
Millstones were built near the springs, and the river was used for the boats that went to the Mills carrying flour and olives from all around the coast of Corfu.
Much later, in the early 20th century, conditions changed, the mills did not produce enough, and were not able to feed the growing population.
So residents turned to fish, and the river passing through the village was a hindrance, so they blocked the flow in the riverbed, and the river followed another direction and now flows to where the hotel Potamaki is today.
The old riverbed was turned into a road, which is now the main street of the old village.
It’s not possible to see the mouth of the river (Trafos in local dialect) today because it has shrunk that much that you pass it without noticing.
The life and habits of inhabitants changed radically with the advent of mass tourism that began in the 60s and reached a peak in the 80s.
Today, Benitses is in a transitional period, trying to attract discerning visitors by upgrading the infrastructure whilst preserving the traditional style that it has never lost.
Most residents are involved in tourism, but do not forget the tradition of fishing, especially in winter.
The young people today have a very different professional approach because they see that tourism is not the only option; they have traveled and studied, many abroad, and come back with a wide range of qualifications, a world is open to them that their grandparents could not possibly have foreseen.
In Benitses, there will always be fresh fish sold, often still alive as they come out from the sea …
The sea here is full of the sea plant “Posidonia”, which might not be liked by the swimmers, but the plant is responsible for the abundant supply of especially delicious fish, as well as the great clarity of the sea.
Last updated on October 6th, 2023 at 09:15 am
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BENITSES – CORFU Tel: 26610 72420
Last updated on October 6th, 2023 at 09:15 am
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Benitses – Corfu β¦ on the main road opposite the harbor
