The Video from the captivating night of Corfu with photos by Bill Metallinos, selected snapshots of his stunning Corfu Nightscapes, literally a walk on the moon.
60,000 images of magical nightscapes of Corfu by Vasilis Metallinos paired with John Miliade’s musical creations on a journey from the old Fortress and the beauty of Corfu to the Full Moon and to the Stars!
Here is the Channel of Bill Metallinos on youtube with more stunning videos.
Next, to Korission Lake there is a small cedar forest that separates the two large sandy beaches of Chalikouna and Issos.
It was the spring of 2015, the first of May, long before the hot summer, when a group of friends decided to visit a tavern in the area of Chalikouna.
The one who had the idea insisted that before we go for lunch we should make a nice walk, as he called it, inside the cedar forest up to the beach of Issos.
Besides, walking is good and opens up the appetite.
So we left our cars at the end of the road along Halikouna, in the mouth of the lagoon at the point where the lake joins the sea, and we passed by a small and a little dangerous old wooden bridge we entered the path just next to the waters of the lake.
The Korission Lagoon is a very rich wetland and a place where local people fish, Very small shrimps abound in these waters as well as many species of fish.
Wherever there are shrimps and fish offspring, there are also birds and other not very friendly species, like mosquitoes spiders, etc…
As soon as we entered the path I immediately realized that I had to take great care when talking or breathing, due to mosquitoes which were millions around our faces and sting badly.
I asked my friend if we came to walk or to feed the mosquitoes.
We had no choice but to move quickly to get to the other side.
After a while, we left the mosquito trail and walked further into the forest.
Here beside the mosquitoes, there were many snakes, the viper of Corfu is local and venomous, so our driver went forward by striking the ground with his legs and a long reed to drive away from the snakes that could be under the roots of the trees into the sand.
In the branches of lush vegetation were hanging spiders small and large and various strange and somehow unknown species of nice insects that best not to sting you …
After one kilometer of a fast and difficult journey, as the feet sank into the sand, the trees gave away to the better ground with sand and shrubs, only another 500 yards separated us from the beach.
There was a big effort during this walk, therefore, unfortunately, I never think to take some pictures, so the only photo here is the one from google earth that shows exactly where the forest is and the locations around it.
At the end of the footpath, I was shrieking from the mosquito bites and all I was thinking about was how to go back.
The women of the company, on the contrary, threw it all and fell into the sea!
For the return, I decided what I should do and I dug in the sea too, temporarily forgetting walking which is not of my favorite habits.
After an hour we were ready to return.
I’ll wait for you in the cars, I said to the others and then I took a deep breath and start a fast walk, almost running.
I did not even feel bumps or anything, in three minutes I made the distance and waited for the others to reach.
This is the cedar in Korission Lake, beautiful, and wild but with millions of missiles-like mosquitos thirsty for blood.
I can not hide, of course, despite itching and swelling, the whole experience was beautiful, especially after the restaurant where we enjoyed every dish and every moment.
All this narration can discourage some others from doing this, but eventually, after a while, I realized that it was a very beautiful experience after all, and maybe if I have the opportunity I’ll do it again soon.
The photo shows the path with a red line, try it yourself!
Paleokastritsa is famous not only for its spectacular scenery but also for the variety of beaches found along its coastline. The main beaches inside the settlement offer easy access, clear turquoise waters, and nearby facilities, while the surrounding coastline hides some of the most secluded swimming spots in Corfu.
Beyond the organised beaches of Paleokastritsa, the coastline becomes much wilder. South of the village, between Liapades and Ermones, steep cliffs, dense greenery, and hidden coves create a dramatic landscape where many beaches remain accessible only by boat or demanding hiking paths.
These remote beaches are among the most unspoiled places to swim on the west coast of Corfu. Most are not sandy beaches but a mix of pebbles and small patches of sand, surrounded by crystal-clear Ionian waters and untouched natural scenery.
Below you’ll find the beaches of Paleokastritsa and the surrounding coastline, listed from north to south.
The main beaches of Paleokastritsa are located around the famous bays of the settlement and are the easiest options for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the area’s crystal-clear Ionian waters. Unlike the more secluded beaches found along the surrounding coastline, these beaches are close to restaurants, parking areas, boat rentals, and other visitor facilities.
Agios Spiridon is the most famous and photographed beach in Paleokastritsa. Located directly below the monastery, it offers beautiful turquoise waters, easy access, and a spectacular backdrop of green hills and rocky cliffs.
Alipa is a small but popular harbor beach, known for its calm waters and convenient location. It is also the main departure point for many boat trips exploring the hidden caves and beaches around Paleokastritsa.
Platakia is a smaller beach tucked between the rocky coves of Paleokastritsa. Its clear waters and natural surroundings make it a good choice for swimming and snorkeling away from the busiest spots.
Ampelaki is a quieter beach with a more natural atmosphere, surrounded by rocky formations and lush vegetation. It is a favorite for visitors looking for a peaceful swim while still staying close to the main area of Paleokastritsa.
The mountainous area of the west coast of Corfu, between Liapades and Ermones, is home to some of the most remote and untouched beaches in Corfu.
These are not organised beaches. Most are accessible only by boat or via demanding hiking paths, which is exactly why they remain among the most secluded and unspoiled swimming spots on the island.
Welcome to the wild southern coast of Paleokastritsa, one of the most dramatic and untouched stretches of Corfu.
Here, the landscape changes completely — cliffs, dense greenery, and hidden coves that are mostly inaccessible by road define this area.
Below you’ll find the hidden beaches south of Paleokastritsa, listed from north to south.
Surprisingly, all these hidden beaches are not sandy but rather a mix of pebbles with little sand.
Some are so isolated and difficult to reach that most people, even locals, ignore them or never visit them.
Below are the most secluded beaches along this stretch of the Corfu west coast, listed from north to south.
Liapades Beach is also called Gefyra, a beach with turquoise waters. It is located on a small bay east of Paleokastritsa beaches, just a short two-kilometer distance from it.
Crystal clear waters on a pebble background in stunning scenery.
It is the beach of Liapades, a mountainous village located about 400 meters to the east and slightly south, in the interior of the island.
Greenery in an idyllic landscape, isolation, and blue waters characterize one of the most beautiful beaches in Corfu, which is the beach of Rovinia.
Just short of Liapades Beach is located across from Paleokastritsa, accessible from the sea or land via a small path…See more
Yet another beautiful and secluded beach below the village of Liapades, accessible mainly by sea and by land for good climbers.
It has the same morphology as the double beach of Porto Timoni in northwestern Corfu, a round piece of the earth joined to the island by a small strip; this strip is the beach.
Next to a beautiful promenade of land in the sea, at the cape Heliodoros or Liniodoros, there is a homonymous paradise beach with pebbles accessible only by sea, south, and west of the village of Liapades.
Paradise Beach lives up to its name, A deserted paradise only accessible from the sea, located slightly south of the beach of Liniodoros. It is the second-largest beach in the area, and it looks so much the same as the neighboring beach of Stelari.
Paradise or Chomoi is a fine pebble beach, like most beaches in this remote area. There are high cliffs on the back that separate it from the inland and give a sense of isolation and grandeur.
The largest beach in the area, yet another paradise with pebbles and a little sand.
During the night, the sand is illuminated only by starlight and slightly by the distant lights of Paleokastritsa.
The stars gave their Italian name, Stelari, from the word Stel, which means Star in Italian.
It has all the features of previous beaches and more; it is idyllic, beautiful, and gives a sense of grandeur due to the background scenery with the towering cliffs.
Unfortunately, it is accessible only from the sea.
Above is a picture of Stelari at night, taken by Bill Metallinos.
More on Stelari beachGyali is the last to the south. Another secluded, idyllic beach near Ermones and the village of Giannades, accessible only by sea.
All these remote coves are considered among the best beaches in Corfu.
Benitses of 2017 with the drone of Nektarios Spinoulas.
It is his first attempt, and a very good result overall.
We are waiting for his next videos.
A modern, clean, and well-maintained apartment complex just a short walk from the beach, shops, restaurants, and marina. Rooms are spacious, comfortable, and equipped with air conditioning, kitchen facilities, and balconies with sea or mountain views. Daily cleaning is thorough, and some guests note thoughtful touches like welcome gifts and stocked basics.
The pool area is calm, clean, and well-kept, ideal for relaxation. Staff are consistently praised as friendly, helpful, and attentive, often going the extra mile to accommodate guests. The complex is quiet, attracting respectful and relaxed clientele.
Highlights:
Minor considerations:
Overall: Highly recommended for couples, families, or solo travelers seeking a peaceful, well-equipped base in Benitses.
Set atop the old Benitses, Skevoulis Studios offers well-maintained rooms with air-conditioning, ceiling fans, and kitchen facilities. Hosts Nikos and Katerina go the extra mile, providing a warm welcome, helpful tips, and thoughtful touches like complimentary snacks and water. Rooms are cleaned regularly, and the property has outside seating with laundry facilities.
The location is quiet and scenic, just a 5-minute walk to the beach and town, though there is a steep incline to consider. Benitses itself is charming, with supermarkets, quality restaurants, and a relaxing atmosphere. Bus 6 offers a convenient connection to Corfu Town in about 20–30 minutes.
Ideal for travelers who value tranquility, comfort, and attentive hosts.
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