AtCorfu Travel Blog

How long is Corfu’s summer season?

In the 1970s when Corfu first became widely visited by tourists the season stretched from the end of March until early November.

Of course, the island was not full for all those months, but from May15th-September 15th it was difficult to find empty rooms in the hotels.

People in Corfu pitied those in other parts of Greece such as Halkidiki, which had a much shorter season.

But then fashion changed and the number of visitors fell.
Flights were canceled and eventually, it became difficult to get direct to Corfu before early May, or after mid-September.

This was sad as the people who liked coming early and late were usually people who really loved the island, who wanted to walk through the hill villages in the cooler weather, see the wildflowers and migrating birds, paint, and do things other than lying on a beach and bake.

Fortunately, first Easyjet and then Ryanair began new routes to the island, offering low-cost flights which benefitted both visitors who liked coming out of the main season, and also Corfu residents wishing to go in the other direction.

Additionally, these companies began flights to other parts of Europe- Oslo, Milan, etc. and a new market began to build up.
These flights start early and go on later than most of the traditional charter companies.

The main tour companies may still be wary of venturing outside the peak season, but these low price flight companies have given opportunities for groups of like-minded travelers to be able to enjoy all the things Corfu has to offer.
There are now cookery holidays, Tai Chi courses, and many more unusual vacations available, and groups are accommodated in one of the several places arranged specifically to cater to their needs.

This market is still building up but it is the new Corfu, all the old attractions but with so much more to offer the visitor.

Corfu’s notable foreign residents from the 60s to today

Corfu has indeed captured the attention of numerous celebrities and notable figures over the years, drawn in by its natural beauty, historical significance, and alluring lifestyle.

Many of these figures opted for brief visits, immersing themselves in the island’s charms for a few days.

Moreover, a handful of them even became property owners on the island. While the list provided may not encompass every individual, here are some notable names who have either visited or made a stay in Corfu in the past:

William Gladstone

During the British Protectorate (1815-1864) there were a number of notable residents of Corfu, not least the future prime minister William Gladstone, and the landscape artist and humourist Edward Lear, who produced wonderful watercolors of Corfu in those days.

Gerald Durrell

In more modern times the Durrell family, particularly Gerald Durrell, the naturalist, and his older brother Lawrence Durrell (the novelist), brought Corfu’s delights to a wider audience by their books and can be said to have been the first tourists.

Celebrities of the 1960s

Corfu has indeed captured the attention of numerous celebrities and notable figures over the years, drawn in by its natural beauty, historical significance, and alluring lifestyle.

Many of these figures opted for brief visits, immersing themselves in the island’s charms for a few days. Moreover, a handful of them even became property owners on the island.

Also, It’s widely recognized that Corfu holds a special preference among the members of Europe’s royal families, surpassing other islands in popularity.

While the list provided may not encompass every individual, here are some notable names who have either visited or made a stay in Corfu in the past:

1. Prince Philip (Duke of Edinburgh): Prince Philip was born in Corfu in 1921 as a member of the Greek and Danish royal families. His birthplace, the Mon Repos palace, is a well-known landmark on the island.
2. Lawrence Durrell: The British novelist and poet Lawrence Durrell lived in Corfu during the 1930s. He wrote the popular “Corfu Trilogy,” which includes “My Family and Other Animals,” based on his experiences on the island.
3. Gerald Durrell: The younger brother of Lawrence Durrell, Gerald Durrell, was a naturalist, zookeeper, and conservationist. He spent his formative years on Corfu, as described in his book “My Family and Other Animals.”
4. Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis: The former First Lady of the United States and her children visited Corfu in the 1960s.
5. Tom Hanks: The American actor and his wife, Rita Wilson, have been known to vacation in Greece, and Corfu could be among their destinations.
6. The Rothschild Family: Members of the wealthy Rothschild family have been associated with Corfu and have owned properties on the island.
7. Aristotelis Onassis: The Greek shipping magnate, who was known for his relationships with prominent women like Maria Callas and Jacqueline Kennedy, had connections to the Greek islands, including Corfu.
8. Edward Lear: The English artist, writer, and poet visited Corfu and created a series of drawings and watercolors depicting the island’s landscapes.
9. Kaiser Wilhelm II: The former German Emperor and King of Prussia spent time in Corfu during his exile after World War I.
10. Various European Royalty: Corfu has historically been a favored destination for European royals, including members of the British, Greek, and other European royal families.

Many other notable individuals have visited or had connections to Corfu over the years. The island’s beauty, history, and charm have attracted a diverse range of personalities from different walks of life.

Lady Alexandra Metcalfe, whose late husband had been the Duke of Windsor’s aide at the time of the abdication, and whose father was a notable viceroy of India, Lord Curzon, lived at Kommeno for many years, and also there was Princess Sophia, sister of the Duke of Edinburgh.

Further north the former editor of The Sunday Times, Frank Giles had his home, whilst on the west coast, just south of Paleokastritsa, was the house built by Lord Glenconner, for many years only accessible by water.

Actors and Singers

By the 1960s Corfu’s charms were becoming well known, and the stage and screen designer Roger Furse and his wife built a home on the hill above Benitses.

They were shortly joined by the actor and writer Emlyn Williams, and the publisher Hamish Hamilton.

One Christmas Vivien Leigh came to stay and was enchanted by the abandoned villa of St John of the Pigeons, south of Benitses. She planned to buy it but sadly died shortly after her return from the island.

Her former husband Laurence Olivier visited regularly, and for many years the Corfu Bar had a panel on the wall containing their autographs.

Another actor, Albert Finney, and his then-wife Anouk Aimee bought a property at Ipsos, whilst actor Peter Bull‘s small home perched on a cliff in Paxos, just outside Lakka.

Don’t forget about the famous actors and singers who made their way to the island, including John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison, The Moody Blues, Robert Stigwood, Cat Stevens, Ava Gardner, Warren Beatty, Paul Newman, Doris Day, Gregory Peck, Audrey Hepburn, and many more.

It’s interesting to note that this magnetic attraction to Corfu was predominantly a phenomenon of the 20th century, and with the rise of mass tourism, it’s apparent that its appeal has started to wane.

Across Corfu island – from east coast to west ..on foot

Hey there, adventure seekers! If you’re looking to trade the usual road trip for a bit of excitement, I’ve got a journey that’ll have you feeling like a true explorer. Let’s talk about the scenic route from Benitses to Agios Gordios – it’s not your average drive, but boy, is it worth it.

Benitses and Agios Gordios are two resort gems facing each other across the island, separated by only about 6 km. Now, you’d think a drive between them would be a breeze, but the roads have a surprise in store. Up and down you go, winding through the landscape, and that leisurely drive takes a good half hour.

But for those with a taste for adventure, there’s another way to journey between these two havens. Strap on your hiking boots, because walkers have conquered this route in less than 3 hours – talk about a scenic sweat session!

So, here’s the plan. Depart from Benitses and ascend the steep track leading to the quaint village of Stavros. Along the way, catch your breath at the small Agia Paraskevi church, where a spring offers refreshment to parched throats. Emerging from olive groves, you step into a village where time seems to have stood still for centuries. Stop by the bakery for fresh wood-cooked bread – a slice of authenticity that you won’t forget.

Then, it’s a downhill jaunt to a junction that marks the next leg of your journey. Keep your eyes peeled for a sign pointing you toward the monastery of Pantokrator (aka Holy Spirit). It’s worth the detour, trust me. You’ll climb to the peak of the hill, where a crater from a long-extinct volcano awaits. Nestled within is a charming monastery and a sprawling orchard.

If you’re lucky, the keeper might open the gates for you. But even if he’s away, the tranquility of this spot will captivate you. Picnic tables and friendly feline companions make it hard to leave. And oh, the views! Turn east, and you’ll gaze upon Corfu Town, the Corfu airport, and Gastouri village with the majestic Achilleion Palace atop. To the west, you’ll take in the hills, ancient villages, and the glistening sea beyond.

Prepare for another surprise – Corfu’s second-highest hill, Agii Deka, unveils its olive groves, vineyards, and lush vegetation. In season, you’ll spot rare wild orchids, delicate cyclamen, and the graceful autumn crocus. The tarmacked track, although narrow, traces the old donkey path all the way to Ano Garouna village.

With the descent into Kato Garouna and onwards, you’re on the home stretch. A well-deserved reward awaits – the sparkling blue waters of the Ionian Sea at Agios Gordios beach, perfect for a refreshing swim. It’s a journey that’s not just about the destination; it’s about embracing the journey itself, savoring every step, and discovering the hidden gems along the way. So, adventurers, lace up those shoes and let the path lead you to an unforgettable experience!