Corfu Travel Blog: An Insider’s View of Corfu Greece

Last updated on July 27th, 2024 at 10:57 am

Corfu, a stunning island in the Ionian Sea, is not just known for its lush landscapes, historic towns, and beautiful beaches but also its captivating underwater world.

The island offers some of the best snorkeling and diving spots in Greece, with crystal-clear waters, vibrant marine life, and intriguing underwater landscapes.

Corfu’s underwater treasures await your exploration, whether you are an experienced diver or a beginner snorkeler.

Why Corfu?

Corfu’s unique underwater environment is a result of its geographical location and natural features.

The island’s waters are typically clear with excellent visibility, making it a prime destination for underwater activities.

The diverse marine life, including various fish species, octopuses, and even the occasional sea turtle, adds to the allure.

Additionally, the underwater caves, reefs, and shipwrecks provide fascinating backdrops for diving adventures.

Top Snorkeling and Diving Spots

1. Paleokastritsa

One of the most famous and picturesque spots on the island, Paleokastritsa is renowned for its dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, and azure waters. It’s a paradise for snorkelers and divers alike.

2. Kassiopi

Located on the northeast coast of Corfu, Kassiopi is a charming village with excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities.

3. Agni Bay

Agni Bay, with its tranquil waters and pebbly beach, is a hidden gem on Corfu’s northeast coast.

4. Nissaki

Nissaki, which means “small island” in Greek, is a quaint village with excellent underwater attractions.

5. Kalami Bay

Kalami Bay, famous for its connection to author Lawrence Durrell, is also a fantastic spot for underwater activities.

6. Ermones

Ermones, on the west coast of Corfu, is a beautiful beach surrounded by lush greenery and steep cliffs.

7. Liapades

Liapades, a traditional village on the west coast, is known for its beautiful beaches and excellent underwater conditions.

Tips for Snorkeling and Diving in Corfu

Diving Centers and Tours

Corfu is home to several diving centers that offer equipment rental, guided tours, and diving courses for all levels. Some of the most reputable diving centers include:

These centers ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable experience while exploring Corfu’s underwater world.

Conclusion

Corfu’s underwater world is a hidden treasure waiting to be explored.

With its crystal-clear waters, diverse marine life, and fascinating underwater landscapes, the island offers some of the best snorkeling and diving experiences in Greece.

From the dramatic cliffs and caves of Paleokastritsa to the tranquil bays of Kassiopi and Agni, each spot provides a unique and unforgettable adventure.

Whether you are a seasoned diver or a beginner snorkeler, Corfu’s underwater wonders will leave you mesmerized and eager to discover more.

So grab your gear, dive in, and experience the enchanting underwater world of Corfu.

More about Corfu

Last updated on July 27th, 2024 at 10:55 am

Corfu is a gem of the Ionian Sea, perfect for families looking for a blend of excitement, education, and natural beauty.

The island’s diverse offerings ensure that families with children of all ages can have a memorable and enjoyable vacation. Here, we explore the best places and activities for families visiting Corfu.

Aqualand Water Park

One of the top attractions for families in Corfu is the Aqualand Water Park. Located in the heart of the island, this park is one of the largest in Europe and promises a day filled with fun and adventure.

It features numerous slides, from adrenaline-pumping rides for older kids and adults to gentler options for younger children.

The lazy river and wave pool provide relaxation, while the children’s areas are equipped with smaller slides and water play zones.

Aqualand also has plenty of shaded areas, cafes, and snack bars, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable visit for the entire family.

Corfu Aquarium

For an educational experience, the Corfu Aquarium is a must-visit.

Situated in Paleokastritsa, the aquarium showcases a variety of marine life native to the Ionian Sea.

Kids can learn about different species of fish, sea urchins, starfish, and other marine creatures.

The aquarium also offers interactive experiences, allowing children to touch and hold some of the animals, making learning fun and engaging.

The knowledgeable staff provide fascinating information and answer any questions, enhancing the educational value of the visit.

Hydropolis Water Park

Another great spot for water-based fun is the Hydropolis Water Park in Acharavi.

This park combines thrilling water slides and pools with educational exhibits.

It’s a fantastic place for children to learn about the water cycle and environmental conservation while enjoying the various water attractions.

The park also features a large play area, making it perfect for younger kids to splash around safely.

Beaches

Corfu is renowned for its stunning beaches, many of which are perfect for families.

Glyfada Beach is one such location, offering golden sands and shallow waters ideal for young swimmers.

The beach is well-equipped with sunbeds, umbrellas, and beachside cafes. Water sports facilities are available for those seeking a bit more adventure, and the clear waters are perfect for snorkeling.

Agios Georgios Pagon is another family-friendly beach. Known for its expansive sandy shore and calm waters, it’s a great spot for building sandcastles, swimming, and enjoying a picnic.

The surrounding area offers plenty of amenities, including restaurants and shops, ensuring a convenient beach day.

Donkey Rescue Center

A unique and heartwarming experience awaits at the Donkey Rescue Center in South Corfu.

This sanctuary is dedicated to the care and rehabilitation of donkeys, many of which have been rescued from difficult situations.

Visitors can interact with the donkeys, learning about their stories and the center’s efforts to protect them.

It’s an educational and emotional experience that teaches children about compassion and animal welfare.

Corfu Trail

For families who love outdoor adventures, the Corfu Trail offers a variety of scenic walks suitable for all ages.

This long-distance trail spans the length of the island, but many sections are perfect for day hikes.

Walking through olive groves, coastal paths, and traditional villages, families can enjoy the island’s natural beauty and discover hidden gems along the way.

The trail provides a great opportunity for children to learn about the local flora and fauna while enjoying the fresh air and exercise.

Old Town of Corfu

Exploring Corfu’s Old Town is like stepping back in time.

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a maze of narrow streets, historical buildings, and charming squares.

Families can start at the Liston Promenade, a beautiful arcaded terrace inspired by the Rue de Rivoli in Paris.

It’s a perfect spot for a stroll and enjoying some ice cream. The nearby Spianada Square is the largest in Greece and offers plenty of open space for kids to run around and play.

The Old Fortress and New Fortress are must-see landmarks that provide insights into Corfu’s Venetian past.

The forts offer panoramic views of the town and the sea, and exploring their ramparts and tunnels can be an exciting adventure for children.

The Museum of Asian Art, housed in the Palace of St. Michael and St. George, offers a fascinating collection of artifacts and is another great educational stop.

Achilleion Palace

The Achilleion Palace, built by Empress Elisabeth of Austria, is a stunning neoclassical mansion surrounded by beautiful gardens.

The palace is dedicated to Achilles, the hero of Greek mythology, and is filled with statues and artworks that bring his story to life.

Children can learn about Greek myths and history while exploring the palace and its grounds.

The gardens offer a peaceful setting for a family picnic, with views of the sea and the surrounding countryside.

Porto Timoni Beach

For a bit of adventure, families can hike to the Porto Timoni double beach.

This unique beach is located near the village of Afionas and consists of two crescent-shaped bays connected by a narrow strip of land.

The hike to Porto Timoni is moderately challenging but rewarding, with breathtaking views along the way.

Once there, families can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and exploring the natural beauty of this secluded spot.

Blue Lagoon and Boat Trips

Boat trips are a fantastic way to explore Corfu’s coastline and discover hidden coves and beaches.

The Blue Lagoon is a popular destination for such trips. Families can enjoy swimming and snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters, spotting colorful fish and other marine life.

Some tours also include stops at nearby caves and secluded beaches, providing a day of adventure and exploration.

For those who prefer a more relaxed experience, a glass-bottom boat tour is an excellent choice.

These tours allow families to observe the underwater world without getting wet, making it a perfect activity for young children or those who are not comfortable swimming.

Local Taverns and Cuisine

No visit to Corfu is complete without sampling the local cuisine.

Family-friendly tavernas are scattered throughout the island, offering delicious dishes made with fresh, local ingredients.

Traditional Corfiot dishes such as Pastitsada (a beef stew with pasta), sofrito (veal in a white wine sauce), and bourdeto (spicy fish stew) are must-tries.

Many tavernas have outdoor seating and play areas for children, making them perfect for a family meal.

Spas and Relaxation

For families looking to relax and unwind, many of Corfu’s luxury resorts and hotels offer spa services and wellness programs.

Parents can enjoy a massage or spa treatment while children take part in supervised activities and kids’ clubs.

This allows everyone to enjoy some downtime and return home refreshed and rejuvenated.

Festivals and Events

Corfu hosts numerous festivals and events throughout the year, many of which are family-friendly.

The Corfu Carnival in February or March features colorful parades, costumes, and performances that delight children and adults alike.

The Easter celebrations in Corfu are particularly famous, with unique traditions such as the pot-throwing event on Holy Saturday, where clay pots are thrown from windows to mark the Resurrection.

Horse Riding

Horse riding is another fantastic activity for families in Corfu.

Several equestrian centers offer guided rides through the island’s scenic countryside.

These excursions are suitable for all levels, from beginners to experienced riders.

It’s a wonderful way to experience Corfu’s natural beauty and enjoy a memorable family adventure.

Exploring Traditional Villages

Visiting Corfu’s traditional villages provides a glimpse into the island’s cultural heritage.

Places like Pelekas, Lakones, and Benitses offer charming streets, historical architecture, and a slower pace of life.

Families can explore the villages, meet residents, and enjoy traditional Greek hospitality.

Many villages have small museums and churches that offer insights into Corfu’s history and traditions.

Mon Repos Palace

The Mon Repos Palace, located on the outskirts of Corfu Town, is another historical site worth visiting.

This neoclassical palace was the birthplace of Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh.

The palace is surrounded by beautiful gardens and parkland, providing a peaceful setting for a family stroll.

The site also includes the remains of ancient Corfu, with ruins of temples and other structures that add to the historical significance of the area.

Conclusion

Corfu is a family-friendly destination that offers a rich variety of activities and experiences.

From thrilling water parks and beautiful beaches to historical sites and cultural experiences, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Whether you’re seeking adventure, education, relaxation, or simply quality family time, Corfu has it all.

Its natural beauty, welcoming atmosphere, and diverse offerings make it a perfect choice for a memorable family vacation.

More for Travelers to Corfu

Last updated on August 31st, 2024 at 09:23 pm

Corfu is a wonder of an island. If you’ve never explored it, it’s high time you did. Its golden beaches along with its salty seas make Corfu one of the most explored islands in Greece.

Once you travel here, chances are you won’t want to return home anymore. That’s a feeling many travelers experience.

Corfu’s Tasteful Cuisine

Greece has long been known for its tasty foods and fresh ingredients.

Corfu’s extensive cuisine includes Greek foods but adds authentic flavors to it. Some of the most *and best* of Corfu’s options include the sofrito, the Bourdeto, and of course, the olives. Sofrito is just cooked veils with parsley, garlic, and wine, while Bourdeto is a stew made out of fish and red pepper. Both of these options are a must-try.

The olives are also a must-taste in Corfu. They come from old-grown trees, some of them as old as 100 years old. The best-tasting olive oil comes from the Dafnis family, who’s grown it for decades. The secret is pairing the olives with a tasty salad and Feta cheese and drizzling a little bit of Himalayan salt on top of it. Best combination ever! Light, smooth, tasty, and fresh.

If you need something more consistent, you can always try Corfu’s kumquat. This fruit originally flourished in China and was introduced to the Greek culture in the 19th century by the Middle Eastern inhabitants. Pairing this fruit with an alcoholic drink such as Prosecco will make up the perfect aperitif.

The best island escape tours

If you’re planning to stay longer in Corfu, this is your chance to explore more of its surroundings. Some of the most popular destinations in Corfu include the Vatos village, the beaches of Ermones or Corfu Town, and Old Perithia. Another cool site to visit is Paleokastritsa Beach, the island’s sacred and spiritual hub.

If you prefer a cool hike or bike around the island, check out trips to Kavos or Arkoudilas Beach, the Halikounas’ dunes, or Alonaki Bay. Kanouli Beach is another popular destination for those passionate about nature. You could also check out the Corfu Trail, for a longer hike. It’ll take you about 10 days to get from one side to the other. Along the way, you’ll be able to explore many tiny villages, olive groves, and nature trails.

There are some top must-sees here, of course, as in any other region in the world. You must not miss them! They’re really exquisite and amazingly well crafted. You won’t regret visiting and discovering these sites.

The small isolated beaches south of Paleokastritsa

The wider Paleokastritsa is an area of exceptional natural beauty. In this area, there are some of the most beautiful beaches on the island, but most of them are isolated due to the high cliffs that cut the coast of the mainland.

Liapades, Povinia, Limni, Iliodoros, Paradise, Stelari, Chomi, Giali, to name a few.

They are mixed with sand and pebbles, Remote and beautiful paradises that can be visited by small boats from Paleokastritsa.
If you are in Corfu you must grab the opportunity to visit them.

Old fortress and the Old British hospital in Corfu Town

The fortress with a long history and the abandoned British hospital are surrounded by a great deal of mystery and horror rumors

The Achilleion Palace in Gastouri village

The Achilleion Palace was built by Empress Elizabeth of Austria who became known as the sad queen Sissy.
It is a place to visit and it sits at the edge of the village Gastouri, 6 miles from Corfu town.

Myrtiotissa Nudist Beach in Western Corfu

Mirtiotissa is a small, remote sandy beach on the west coast of Corfu, since the decade of the 60s it became the only beach on the island of Corfu where nudism was officially tolerated.

One of the most beautiful beaches in Europe, reached by a steep path or by the sea, a rather small sandy beach difficult to spot from the sea, separated from Glyfada beach by a thin but high rock.

Liston in Corfu Town

At the north left of Esplanade Square is the popular pedestrian area of The Liston with its French architectural buildings (modeled on the Rue de Rivoli in Paris).

Built in 1807 by the French, to house the French army.

They have arched ground-floor galleries which the locals call “Volta”

The name was given by the word “list” which comes from the Greek word “lista” that was used for the list of the Nobles (Libro d ‘Oro) as in the old days only the nobility were able to walk in this part in the city.

Today, the arcades of Liston are the busiest part of Corfu, full of cafes, restaurants, and craft shops in general, so, it is not something that you must try to find rather than a sight that you won’t miss.

Mon Repos Estate Palace in Corfu Town

Mon Repos palace is a neoclassical building on the east of Paleopolis, Inside the Corfu ancient city.

Built in 1830 by the British Commissioner Sir Frederick Adam at the beginning of the peninsula of Kanoni next to the ruins of Paleopolis

The diamond beaches of the Erimitis area

Erimitis on the Northeastern tip of Corfu, very close to Albanian shores.

It stretches from Agios Stefanos in the East up to Kassiopi borders on the North Coast.

An unspoiled paradise, full of small cute coves-beaches separated by small promontories that give beautiful scenery to the landscape, most of them accessible by the sea.

Some cute tiny beaches here are Avlaki, Vouvalomantria Beach, Vrachli Beach, Tzoufakia, the Arias Beach, Akoli, Vromolimni, Kaminakia Beach, Korfovounia, Aspalathras, and Xylokeratia beach.

Beaches with pebbles and very little sand, the waters are extremely clear and clean.

The medieval abandoned and reborn village of Perithea

Perithea is an abandoned medieval village located below the majestic peak of Pantokrator. On a plateau in the mountain at an altitude of 400 meters.

Are you curious to see how a dead village can be reborn?

Sure you are.

Then you must visit Perithea

To see the old abandoned stone house alive again and restored to its previous glory.

But if you are a culinary freak, you have one more reason to come here.

The ground floor of several houses is transformed into restaurants offering local specialties and they are full of people, especially at the weekends.

The Traditional Village of Nymfes, named after the mythical Nymphs

This village of Northwest Corfu is ancient, untouched by time and tourism, and took its name from the mythical Nymphs.

Do you like the opportunity to see the life, and customs of the real non-touristry Corfu?

Sure you want.

Then this is the village to visit, to see the traditional old customs and learn the fairytales that are connected with the landscape.

In the majestic waterfalls, the secret story of the area is still alive, here the mythological Nymphes were living, so the village took their name, Nymfes is the place of the mermaids or Nymphes.

For a more personalized experience, you could also try a private tour with a guided option. You’ll get to explore more of Corfu’s detailed history and culture. You could also get an olive oil-tasting tour for a more authentic experience. Shore excursions are also available, but make sure you read the reviews before picking one.

Conclusion

Visit Corfu for its amazing experiences, cool trips, outstanding cuisine, and the best time of your life! Don’t forget to pack sunglasses, towels, and bathing suits. Bonne voyage!

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