AtCorfu Travel Blog

The small town of Lefkimmi

Welcome to Lefkimmi, the lively heart of southern Corfu!

Step into the enchanting world of Lefkimmi, Corfu’s vibrant second-largest town that promises a delightful adventure! Imagine strolling through picturesque olive orchards that stretch out under the warm Greek sun, offering a soothing retreat for both the eyes and the soul.

Venture further, and you’ll discover an array of stunning beaches that beckon you to bask in the golden sands and embrace the turquoise waves.

But that’s not all – Lefkimmi’s charm extends beyond its natural beauty. The town’s architecture tells a tale of its rich history, with buildings that hold the whispers of times gone by.

From quaint cottages to structures of profound historical importance, every corner offers a glimpse into the past and a step towards understanding the island’s fascinating heritage.

So whether you’re a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or someone simply seeking to soak in the beauty of Corfu’s southern landscapes, Lefkimmi welcomes you with open arms and an abundance of captivating experiences waiting to be explored.

About Lefkimmi

Nestled in the southernmost corner of the island, just 40 km away from Corfu Airport, Lefkimmi beckons with its charming streets adorned with historic merchants’ mansions and captivating cottages undergoing rejuvenation.

Take a leisurely seat by the riverside, savor a delicious meal or refreshing drink, and relish the mesmerizing ebb and flow of life passing by. Follow the tranquil river to its meeting with the sea, where you can indulge in a revitalizing swim in the warm embrace of the Mediterranean waters.

Discover the town’s captivating churches, including an Italian-style gem that graces the upper town with its elegance. Venture down a well-marked road that leads to the harbor of Alikes, formerly bustling with horses transporting salt from the flats to be processed. Today, this picturesque sanctuary is a haven for diverse birdlife, including graceful flamingos and migratory wonders.

Lefkimmi’s harbor remains a hub for local fishermen, who bring in their catches with a touch of timelessness. Nearby, a charming beach is adorned with cozy tavernas that extend a warm Greek welcome, offering a taste of authentic local flavors.

Observe as locals venture into the sea with rakes in hand – an age-old tradition to uncover hidden shellfish amidst the sandy shores. The waters here are shallow, inviting, and perfect for families, creating a haven for little adventurers.

Oh, and the bustling port, near the meandering river’s mouth, has emerged as Corfu’s second operational harbor. Experience the convenience of daily ferry services to the mainland’s Igoumenitsa port – a cost-effective journey for savvy travelers seeking an alternative route.

The allure of Lefkimmi lies not only in its captivating present but also in its rich past, weaving tales that resonate with each charming corner you explore.

Lefkimmi has its own Identity

Step into the enchanting world of Lefkimmi, where tradition and timelessness intertwine to create a village that feels like stepping back in time. With approximately 5,000 vibrant souls, it proudly claims its spot as the second-largest town and the thriving heart of the island’s southern embrace. But Lefkimmi is more than just numbers – it’s a living story, a fusion of tales from its villages, and Potami, all converging to shape its unique identity.

Although not very far from the bustling Corfu Town, Lefkimmi is a world apart. It’s as if a tranquil spell has been cast upon this village, a refuge from the fast-paced world. While its neighbor Kavos has danced with the spotlight of tourism, Lefkimmi remains gracefully untouched, a testament to its authenticity.

As you wander through its narrow streets, you’ll be greeted by an almost dreamlike atmosphere. Traditional elements flourish here, with old-world merchants’ mansions and Venetian-style houses standing tall, wearing the patina of time. These structures, often untouched or weathered by the years, are like living history lessons that whisper tales of the past. This, my friend, is where Lefkimmi’s charm truly shines.

Imagine strolling along these winding paths, where the air is fragrant with the aroma of freshly brewed coffee, the hum of chatter from charming cafes, and the clink of glasses in tavernas.

The village seems to have a rhythm all its own, an embrace of both past and present. Here, you’ll catch glimpses of old Corfiots leisurely guiding their donkeys, women gracefully balancing pots on their heads as they carry them home, and locals sharing moments over a glass of ouzo, right on the sidewalk outside their cozy cottages.

So let yourself be whisked away to the timeless world of Lefkimmi, where history dances in every corner and the spirit of the village warmly embraces you. It’s a place that whispers stories of yesterday while inviting you to create new memories today.

Origin of the locals

The tapestry of Lefkimmi’s villages is woven with threads of diversity and shared stories. Nestled within its historic streets are tales of people who journeyed from distant shores, bringing with them the essence of their origins.

These villages have opened their arms to individuals hailing from various corners of Greece, but it’s the island of Crete that holds a special place in this mosaic of cultures. Like whispers carried by the winds across the Aegean Sea, In the medieval era, Cretans found their way to Lefkimmi, leaving an indelible mark on the village’s identity.

Imagine the vibrant rhythm of Crete intermingling with the timeless melody of Lefkimmi. The people who journeyed from the Cretan shores brought with them their customs, their flavors, and their unique perspectives. It’s as if a bridge was formed between Crete and Corfu, connecting these two distinct worlds through a shared love for Lefkimmi.

The echoes of Crete can be heard in the lively conversations held in cafes, the sizzle of traditional dishes being prepared in local kitchens, and the laughter that resonates in the air. Lefkimmi, with its embrace of these newcomers, has become a canvas where the colors of Crete blend harmoniously with the rich hues of Corfu.

In this enchanting fusion, the essence of Crete has seeped into the fabric of Lefkimmi’s daily life. It’s a reminder that no matter how far one travels, the heart always yearns for a sense of belonging. As you traverse Lefkimmi’s winding streets and explore its hidden corners, you’ll find that every nook and cranny tells a story – a story of people from Crete who found a second home in this charming village by the sea.

So, let your imagination soar as you envision the fusion of Crete’s spirit with Lefkimmi’s essence, creating a tapestry that is as intricate as it is beautiful. It’s a testament to the power of shared journeys, where different worlds unite to create something truly extraordinary.

Historic fact

Lefkimmi’s storied history also encompasses heroism from World War 2, where locals orchestrated a daring rescue of a crashed Lancaster bomber’s crew. Their bravery guided them through occupied terrain, ultimately leading to a rendezvous with a British submarine in Kontokali.

What to Do and See in the wider area of Lefkimmi?

Explore the villages

Calling all photography enthusiasts, Lefkimmi’s hidden gems are waiting to be captured through your lens! Explore the charming villages of Melikia, Anaplades, Riglades, Potamos, and Agioi Theodoroi, where picturesque neighborhoods and time-honored Venetian mansions await.

Each corner is a canvas for your creativity, a symphony of history and architecture that’s a photographer’s dream come true.

Beaches

Speaking of warm waters, the local beaches draw both locals and tourists like a magnet. Bouka Beach, Molos Beach, and Alykes Beach offer a perfect haven for relaxation, while still, waters ensure that even the youngest beachgoers are safe to splash around. As you venture south, the vibrant area of Kavos awaits. Unlike the serene Lefkimmi, Kavos boasts not only shallow waters but also an intense nightlife that adds a thrilling contrast to this paradise.

The Saltplans

Lefkimmi has something truly enchanting for you. The mesmerizing Lefkimmi Saltworks, a breathtaking wetland known as the Alykes Saltmarshes. Imagine centuries of salt extraction taking place against a backdrop of serene beauty. The Venetian buildings, now restored, once held the precious salt and echoed with whispers of history until 1988.

Spread across approximately 2000 acres, the Saltmarshes are part of the revered Natura 2000 conservation network, especially cherished for their avifauna. Over 180 bird species call this place home, making it a paradise for birdwatchers.

And the star of the show? The flamboyant flamingos refused to leave and graced the skies with their vibrant presence year-round. Imagine witnessing a spectacle of over 3,000 flamingos in 2011 – an awe-inspiring sight indeed. The warm, shallow waters create a natural incubator for their eggs, and you’ll be left in awe of nature’s wonders.

Overall

So whether you’re chasing the perfect shot or craving an escape to nature’s embrace, Lefkimmi beckons you with its irresistible allure. Don’t miss your chance to uncover the treasures that lie within this captivating corner of Corfu.

Kanoni – The peninsula south of Corfu town

The cosmopolitan Kanoni is located 3 km on average from the center of Corfu town.

It is one of the most famous Corfu sights. It covers the entire peninsula south of Corfu Town.

In antiquity, there was the ancient city of Corfu, founded in the 8th century BC by Dorians who came from Corinth (a Greek town near Athens), with the ancient temple of Artemis, the monuments, and the citadel at the present location of Analipsis.

The area has many large hotels, restaurants, clubs, and other shops that turn Kanoni into a busy tourist destination. Until a few years ago, the Corfu Holiday Palace Hotel in Kanoni was housed in the Corfu Casino.

The Casino today has been moved to another hotel in Corfu, the Corfu Palace Hotel in Dimokratias Avenue, between Garitsa and Esplanade square.

How did the name Kanoni come from?

Kanoni got its name because, on the promontory at the end of the peninsula, there was a battery cannon that has been there since 1798, pointing out to sea to protect the island.

In Victorian times, it was a popular stroll in the cool of the evening, and we can imagine the men in their uniforms and the ladies in crinolines.

Today’s visitors are more comfortably dressed but still enjoy taking a coffee at one of the bars, enjoying superb views over Vlacherna convent- a small whitewashed building that is said to be a miniature replica of the famous Vlacherna convent in Constantinople- better known now as Istanbul.

Fittingly, Ancient Corfu port stood almost where the airport is currently

On the hill facing the departure terminal is a piece of wall believed to be 2500 years old, all that is left of the watchtower and wall of the ancient city.

Residents here often find cannonballs and pieces of pottery when they are gardening.

The shift of the town of Corfu from the Kanoni area

It is well known that the ancient city of Corfu was located here and moved to its current position somewhere around 500CE. The theory is that the harbor gradually silted up and became impassable for shipping, so the townspeople moved to the present site of Corfu Town, where a fort was constructed to protect them.

The historical truth is completely different, though. The ancient city of Corfu was destroyed by Visigothic invaders in the 5th century AD, and this forced the residents to abandon it.

Sights in Kanoni

Ancient Temples

Further inland is the remains of the temple of Athena, and just outside the gates of Mon Repos Palace is a large site still being evaluated by archaeologists.

Apart from these, and the foundations of a small temple actually on the grounds of Mon Repos, there is little else left now as Kanoni has become a very popular suburb of Corfu Town and has several hotels, as well as many apartments.

Spotting Airplanes as they land or take off

Plane spotters also abound here as the view of take-offs and landings at the airport is uninterrupted; at times, the watchers are higher than the approaching aircraft.

Mon Repos Palace

Mon Repos Palace, the birthplace of Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, has now become extremely popular with joggers and walkers- its many trees providing welcome shade.

A walk through the grounds is always pleasant, and an escape from the crowds in town.

The palace itself houses a small but interesting museum, with both permanent and temporary exhibits.

Church of St Jason and St Sosipatros

Tucked away near Mon Repos is one of Corfu’s most beautiful churches, the 10th-century church of St Jason and St Sosipatros- the two missionaries who converted the islanders to Christianity.

The church is one of the few examples of Byzantine architecture on Corfu, domed and arched, and it stands in a large square.

On the walls are the remains of frescoes, and the custodian welcomes visitors and will open on request if he is working on his land next door.

This church is the finest example of the Byzantine heritage, but there is a signposted trail to the remains of another four churches in the area, showing that this sleepy suburb was once the hub of a thriving metropolis.

The Mystery of an ancient lemon eucalyptus tree

Some mysteries remain from the dim and distant past…On an estate on the promontory is an ancient lemon eucalyptus tree, believed by tree specialists to be 900 years old- how did it get there when Australia, home of the eucalyptus, was not visited by Westerners until the 18th century?

Near it is a ficus, the third-largest in the world, also a rarity in these climes.

What sailors brought these back, or were seeds randomly blown ashore from one of the ships at anchor in the harbor below?

Beaches around Kanoni

Kanoni is blessed with a variety of beautiful beaches in its vicinity, offering a delightful coastal experience. Also offers the most magnificent views of Mouse Island with the monastery of the Pantokrator and Vlaherna, the monastery of which is joined via a small bridge.

Here are the two notable beaches near Kanoni:

• Vlaherena Beach: Located just off the coast of Kanoni, a small islet known for its picturesque charm. Accessible by boat, this pebble beach is surrounded by crystal-clear waters, making it a popular spot for swimming and snorkeling.
• Mon Repos Beach: Situated near Kanoni, Mon Repos Beach boasts soft golden sands and calm waters. This serene beach is ideal for relaxing under the warm sun and taking refreshing dips in the sea.

These beaches near Kanoni provide a diverse range of coastal experiences, allowing visitors to relax, soak up the sun, and immerse themselves in the natural splendor of Corfu’s coastline.

Overall

Overall, Kanoni in Corfu offers a unique blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and tranquil surroundings. Whether you’re seeking breathtaking views, cultural exploration, or a serene getaway, Kanoni is a destination that captures the essence of Corfu’s charm.