Messonghi Beach, Corfu – Sandy Shore & Village Guide

Messonghi beach hotel
Messonghi Beach Hotel

Messonghi Beach is one of the island’s more relaxed seaside spots, offering a blend of soft sand, clear waters, and easy access—ideal for visitors looking to experience one of Corfu’s laid-back coastal destinations.

Located on the southeast coast, about 20 km south of Corfu Town, Messonghi Beach is easily reachable by car or bus. It is surrounded by lush green hills and features crystal-clear waters, making it a popular choice for swimming and water sports.

The beach is well-organized, with several beach bars and restaurants along the shore where visitors can enjoy local cuisine and refreshing drinks while taking in views of the Ionian Sea. In addition to swimming and sunbathing, visitors can explore nearby areas such as the charming fishing village of Moraitika, which is just a short walk from the beach.

The area also offers several hiking and cycling trails, allowing visitors to explore the beautiful natural surroundings.

There are large hotel units here, like the Messonghi Beach Hotel, which offers high-standard services. There are also plenty of apartments and other accommodations, and rooms.

The beach is fully organized with sun loungers, umbrellas, and a large variety of water sports.

It has the special feature that the sea is deepening slowly and gradually, even at a long distance from the shore, and the depth of the water does not exceed one yard.

Therefore, along with the fact that it is protected from strong winds and has calm waters, it makes it the ideal Corfu beach for children.

In addition to its beaches, Messonghi has a charming village center with narrow streets, traditional houses, and small squares lined with shops, tavernas, and cafes. Visitors can explore the village’s historic churches, such as the Church of the Holy Cross, or take a stroll through the olive groves and citrus orchards that surround the village.

Let’s note that restaurants, bars, and other shops that make up any well-organized tourist area cannot be missed.

There are clubs for nightlife, although those who want something more lively will find it in the neighboring Moraitika. The distance between the two resorts does not exceed 100-200 yards and is easily covered on foot.

It is also worth mentioning the famous camping of Messonghi, which is located along the banks of the river in the southern part of the settlement. The campsite has been there since the 1950s and still provides its services to campers even today.

Overall, Messonghi Beach is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Corfu, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, relaxation, and adventure.

See more details about the place on this Messonghi map.

Messonghi Beach Hotel

Messonghi Beach Hotel is one of the largest hotel complexes and a popular hotel located on Messonghi Beach in Corfu.

The hotel features a range of comfortable rooms, including standard rooms and suites, all of which are equipped with modern amenities such as air conditioning, satellite TV, and free Wi-Fi.

The hotel has several on-site restaurants and bars, including a buffet restaurant that serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, as well as a poolside bar and a beach bar.

The hotel also has a large outdoor swimming pool, a fitness center, and a spa that offers a range of treatments.

In addition to its on-site facilities, Messonghi Beach Hotel is ideally located for exploring the surrounding area.

The hotel is just a short walk from the village of Messonghi, where visitors can find shops, restaurants, and bars.

The hotel is also within easy reach of the historic town of Corfu and other popular attractions, such as Achilleion Palace and the Mon Repos Estate.

Messonghi Beach Hotel is built on the estuary of the Messonghi River, in a natural beauty spot where the vegetation of the Corfiot land mingles with the waters of the Mediterranean Sea, in a green landscape respecting the environment and its customers, offering all the comforts for an unforgettable vacation.

Thanks to its excellent location and its ideal and varied facilities for the whole family, this resort is undoubtedly one of the most popular hotels in Corfu.

Messonghi Beach Hotel is a great choice for anyone looking for a comfortable and convenient base for their stay in Corfu, with plenty of amenities and attractions nearby.

Pictures from Messonghi

 

 

Gardenos Beach view from north to South

Gardenos: The Large Sandy Beach of Vitalades Corfu

The beautiful, large sandy beach of Gardenos at Vitalades.

Gardenos Beach is located on the southwest coast of Corfu, serving as the seaside extension of the traditional village of Vitalades, and is one of the more relaxed beaches in Corfu.

The beach is known for its crystal-clear turquoise waters and its long stretch of soft golden sand, making it a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.

Surrounded by lush green hills, Gardenos Beach offers a picturesque setting for sunbathing, swimming, and relaxing. Sun loungers and umbrellas are available for rent, along with basic facilities such as showers and a selection of seaside restaurants and tavernas.

The distance from the town of Corfu is quite large, about 30 km from the airport, but it is worth the drive.

Gardenos Beach took its name after the small river that flows into the sea and separates Gardenos into two regions.

The beach is exclusively covered by light golden sand, a bit lighter than the neighboring beaches. Usually, the waters are calm and shallow, so it is safe for families with children.

In the region, there are a few rooms to let, mini markets, and a quite spacious parking lot just next to the beach.

Tip: If you’re looking for a quieter spot, head to the northern end of the beach where you’ll find fewer people and a more peaceful atmosphere. There are also a few tavernas and beach bars scattered along the shoreline where you can grab a bite to eat or a refreshing drink.

The name Gardenos

The origin of the name “Gardenos” is not entirely clear, but it is believed to come from the Greek word “gardenia,” which means a type of shrub or small tree with fragrant white or yellow flowers.

It is also possible that the Italian influence on the island contributed to the name of the beach, as the word Gardenos comes from the Italian phrase “Giardino,” which means “garden” in English.

Regardless of its origin, Gardenos Beach is a beautiful and huge sandy paradise, offering stunning natural beauty and a relaxing atmosphere that is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the Mediterranean climate.

Must note also that the Gardenos is a small river that separates the beach into two parts, so both the beach and the river share the name.

Gardenos golden beach at Vitalades
Gardenos golden beach at Vitalades

Walking on the shore towards the south, the equally beautiful beach Megali Lakka (or Kanoula beach) can be reached.

How to get to Gardenos Beach

The beach is approximately 32 kilometers from the airport and 35 kilometers from the port, so a car is the best way.

You can rent a car from Corfu town or any tourist place on the road to south Corfu. Alternatively, you can also take a bus from Corfu town to the village of Vitalades, which is a short walk from the beach.

If you’re driving, take the main road from Corfu town to Lefkimmi, and then follow the signs to Vitalades.

Once you arrive in the village, you’ll find signs directing you to Gardenos Beach, which is located just a few kilometers south of Vitalades.

Overall, getting to Gardenos Beach is relatively easy, and the journey offers plenty of opportunities to see the beautiful countryside of Corfu.

Vitalades Village in South Corfu

Since you must drive through Vitalades to reach the beach, let’s see some facts about this traditional village of Corfu.

Vitalades is a small village situated approximately 30 kilometers south of Corfu town and is home to around 500 residents.

The village is known for its charming narrow streets, traditional stone houses, and picturesque setting, surrounded by green hills and olive groves.

Visitors can take a stroll through the village, enjoying the local architecture and the peaceful atmosphere.

One of the main attractions of Vitalades is Gardenos Beach.

Vitalades is also known for its olive oil production, and visitors can sample locally produced olive oil and other traditional Corfiot products at the village’s shops and markets.

Overall, Vitalades is a charming and authentic Corfiot village that is well worth a visit for anyone interested in experiencing the island’s rich culture and natural beauty.

Photos from Gardenos

Wrapping up

Overall, Gardenos Beach is a stunning, huge sandy beach, a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Corfu who loves beautiful beaches and stunning natural scenery.

Golden Beach of Santa Barbara at South West of Corfu

Corfu - Santa Barbara beach
Corfu – Santa Barbara beach

Santa Barbara Beach is one of the more intriguing beaches in Corfu, with a name whose origin remains something of a local mystery—though it’s unlikely to have anything to do with the well-known American reference.

It lies directly next to Marathia Beach and is often considered its northern extension, sharing the same long stretch of fine golden sand and shallow, crystal-clear waters. The area is well-organized, with several restaurants along the shoreline offering food and refreshments.

Located about 34 km from Corfu Town, it’s a great option for visitors looking to enjoy a spacious and scenic coastal setting on the island’s southwest side.

Agios Georgios (South), Corfu – Beach & Resort Guide

St George South – Beach at Argyrades, Corfu

Corfu - St George south
Corfu – Agios Georgios south

St George South in Argyrades is a large sandy beach in the southwest of Corfu, located about 33 km south of the city of Corfu.

It is also known as Saint George South to stand out from the same name located in the northwest of the island.

It is not a traditional village with permanent inhabitants, but the sandy beach of Argyrades, a large, traditional village in southern Corfu.

Argyrades is one of those villages in Corfu’s countryside where time is slowly and radically flowing, and daily life has remained the same for decades.

About three decades ago, the beach had nothing but sea and sand, and very few locals had houses down there.

Visitors come from other resorts just to enjoy swimming in the clear waters of the wild and untouched beach, and leave.

Just 2-3 houses belonged to residents of Argyrades, and 2 or 3 restaurants, the beach was virgin without loungers and other amenities.

Life and habits may not change in Argyrades, but it has changed rapidly in recent years at the beach of Saint George.

Agios Georgios today has been transformed into a well-organized tourist resort with many water sports and sun loungers with umbrellas in most places, as well as pedalos.

Also, many hotels and apartments emerged literally from the sand, bars and restaurants, supermarkets, and all sorts of shops on the street that were constructed just behind the beach; there are even clubs for nightlife.

The beach stretches for about 6 miles and consists of two pieces separated by a small harbor in the middle, the northern part bordering the beach of Issos and the southern part neighboring the beach of Marathia.

Both beaches have fine golden sand, shallow waters ideal for children, and all the amenities needed to enjoy the sun and the sea.

So, for those who have chosen St. George as their holiday destination, there is also the possibility of easy access by bicycle or on foot to the neighboring beaches of Issos and Marathias as well as to the nearby lake of Korission.

Agios Georgios has turned into a seaside resort that caters to families with children or couples looking for comfort and a relaxing holiday with good possibilities for night entertainment.

It is a large and beautiful beach that, despite the development, remains relaxing enough and has everything it takes to please and relax those who choose it as their vacation place.

 

Marathias Beach

Marathias Beach: Long Stunning Golden Sand in Corfu

The golden long sandy beach of Marathias
The golden, long sandy beach of Marathias

Marathias beach is another huge, golden beach with fine sand in southwestern Corfu near the village of Vitalades, at about 30 kilometers distance from the city of Corfu.

At the north, it begins where the beach of Agios Georgios of Argyrades ends and to the south ends at Santa Barbara Beach (yet I do not understand why they called it so) with which it has no clear boundaries and in fact, the two beaches form together a long sandy beach stretching for about 4 kilometers up to where the southern beach of Megas Choros begins.

If you are looking for a quieter spot away from the crowded central part, you have 4 km of endless sand to walk south.

The beauty and Vastness of the beach

Marathias is one of the larger beaches on the island and is well known for its tranquil atmosphere.

This beautiful destination offers a large, stunning beach, crystal clear waters, and breathtakingly gorgeous views.

Marathias beach is a postcard-perfect paradise with its picturesque views and soft sandy shores featuring brown and golden sand, as well as a plethora of waterfront traditional restaurants with Greek cuisine, cafes, and beach bars, making it a great spot to relax and enjoy the day.

There are also several watersports activities available, such as parasailing, windsurfing, and scuba diving.

The beach has plenty of activities to offer, from swimming, kayaking, paddle boarding, and snorkeling to exploring the other nearby equally large and beautiful sandy beaches of the southwest Corfu coast.

Visitors can rent waterfront umbrellas and enjoy a fresh seafood platter while taking in the amazing views.

Marathias is a great place for swimming, sunbathing, or simply taking a stroll along the shore.

Despite that, it can get very busy at times it never gets over-packed and is still romantic and quiet in some of its more remote parts, which is because of its vastness.

So, whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or just want to relax and unwind on brown and golden sand, Marathias is the perfect destination for you.

Of course, the waters are crystal clear due to the open sea, and the sand is very fine; therefore, it is no surprise that it is awarded a blue flag.

It is also very good for families with children since it does not drop abruptly.

With its stunning natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere, Marathias Beach Corfu is truly a paradise waiting to be explored.

How to get to Marathias

Inside the village of Vitalades, there is a sign on the right side of the main road showing the path to the beach of Marathia.

But Marathias is also reachable from another spot just after the village of Vitalades, you must look for a sign to the beach of Malta or Marta. Is it simply the same with a different name used by the locals?

Don’t get confused and follow them because it’s the same place with a different name.

Wrap it up

Marathias Beach is an ideal vacation spot for anyone seeking to get away from the crowds and be with other people at the same time.

With its crystal-clear waters, stunning sunsets, and endless opportunities for exploration, you’re sure to find something that suits your taste.

It’s no surprise that this beach has become so popular over the years. Don’t forget your camera as well, so you can snap some incredible photos and capture the stunning views of Marathias Beach for years to come!

So leave the stress behind and head off to Marathias Beach to experience it all in a perfect vacation!

Korission Lake in Corfu and its Protected Wetland

Posted in: Best Corfu Beaches 0
Korission lake Corfu
Korission lake Corfu

Korission Lake is located on the southwest coast of Corfu, about 20 miles from the airport, just behind Chalikouna Beach and next to Issos Beach.

It belongs to the wider area of Agios Mattheos village and forms the largest lagoon on the island, as well as one of the most important wetland ecosystems in Corfu.

Covering approximately 6,000 acres of saltwater, the lagoon connects to the sea through a narrow channel known as the “Mouth of the Lake” near the southern end of Halikouna Beach. The area is a protected natural habitat, home to more than 120 species of birds and a wide variety of wildlife, making it a unique contrast to the nearby beaches in Corfu.

The waters of the lake remain calm even when the sea just a few meters away is rough. The surrounding landscape is rich in vegetation, including reeds, lilies, orchids, and the distinctive sea cedar forest that stretches between Halikouna and Issos beaches, adding to the area’s wild, untouched beauty.

The Forest starts from the Lagoon’s Mouth, and after 3 km it is diluted on the beach of Issos.
There are also Salicornia and other species found in muddy and sandy areas, Arthrocnemetalia fruticosae, rudimentary moving dunes, Juniperus e.t.c., And beautiful sea lilies.

The creation of sandstone dunes and dunes that retain the sandy soil that separates it from the sea, according to geological surveys, began to form 140 to 250 thousand years ago.
Now this terrain is over 17 meters in height and is the land on which cedars thrive.

In addition to the 120 species of birds, such as Flamingos, cormorants, whistles, silversmiths, ducks, thousands of butterflies, and many other species, there are also several turtles, such as the Mediterranean turtle(Testudo hermanni), the sea turtle(Emys orbicularis), Caspian turtle (Mauremys caspica).

Lake is a magical, tranquil, and invaluable wildlife shelter and has joined the Natura 2000 Network to protect this rich fauna and flora. There are many different ecosystems here: the cedar forest, the lake, the dunes, and the sea. The seabirds, the pare fishes, A biodiversity that is not easily found elsewhere.

This untouched (yet) natural paradise also has archaeological value; it has been proven that there was a settlement of the Early Paleolithic era, 400 years before its official chronological launch.
A stone tool has been found by French geologists whose age was determined between 950 and 750 thousand years ago, as well as another 150 stone tools and about 60 human bone remains, which prove that the area was the first inhabited on the island.
Along with these were found remnants from the right lower jaw of a hippopotamus, so hippopotamus lived in these waters a long time ago…
So the known boundaries of the prehistory of the Greek area are expanding by an additional 400 years.

The Korission Lagoon is an invaluable ecological and archaeological treasure that until now has been left untouched from the predatory appetites of private capital.
Unfortunately, the area, like all of Corfu, has become, along with other beautiful ecosystems, the target of the predators of the conquering international and local capitalists.
The area has been given by the governments to TAIPED, an organization whose mission is the sale of all public property, so we can all imagine the consequences and what the future holds for us.

The Korission Lake and its entire region, including Halikounas and Issos, should always be the property of the Greek people, to be enjoyed by future generations.
The mission and obligation of all of us is to cancel any destructive exploitation plan for the area, WITH EVERY MEANS, WITH EVERY WAY, WITH ANY COST.

Korission lake
Korission lake
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