CORFU

The Ionian Islands are acclaimed for their rich natural beauty, crystal waters, and sandy beaches. Their combination of natural beauty and abundant experiences offers hospitality and a wide range of sea activities for all lucky visitors, featuring options that meet all interests and preferences.

The second largest Ionian Island is one of the most popular sea tourism locations in the region. With a coastline extending over 200 kilometers, Corfu provides vacationers with a range of beaches suitable for all preferences: whether you like it sandy or pebbled, remote or tourist, there is a beach for everyone. 

At the north of the island, beaches are sandy, and the waters are shallow and warm. Here you will find the famous Canal d’Amour, an enchanting beach that is also a natural landmark, as well as the beaches of Sidari, Roda, and Acharavi. Corfu’s northwest coasts, such as Palaiokastritsa, feature lush vegetation, rocks, and cool waters. Other beaches, such as Rovinia, Agia Triada, and Liapades are also worth a visit. Sandy beaches and shallow waters are also found at the southwest coasts, which feature the popular beaches of Glyfada, Agios Gordios, and Kontogialos. A little further towards the south you will find the beautiful beaches of Issos, Chalikounas, Marathias, and Gardenos. The northeast coast is dominated by coves and beaches with white pebbles and vegetations, situated in the shadow of Mount Pantokrator. Last but not least, the beaches at the southeast coast also feature calm shallow waters, sand, and pebbles, the most notable among them being the beaches at Benitses, Moraitika, and Messonghi.

Sports tourism has become more and more popular over the past few years, and a growing number of tourists seek to combine their love for sports with their passion for travelling. The Ionian Islands are a popular destination for this particular type of tourism – and below you will find out why.

By offering a wide range of sports and outdoor activities, the Ionian Islands have become an ideal destination for those who wish to maintain their fitness during their vacations. Whether you are interested in sea sports or enjoy hiking and cycling, the Ionian Islands have unique opportunities to offer.

Sea sports are very popular in the Ionian Islands during the summer months. Their crystal waters are ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving, and there are many businesses renting equipment to visitors. 

The beaches of Chalikounas and Issos at Corfu are just some of the beaches that attract fervent fans kitesurfing. In fact, several beach host kitesurfing schools that also provide the option to rent equipment.

Regarding Corfu, the constantly growing popularity of mountain roads over the recent years, along with the geomorphological characteristics, diversity of natural environment and moderate island climate over the months of winter laid the foundations for the Corfu Mountain Trail, a mountain race first established in 2012 that consists of four trails: CMT Ultra (103 km), Rain Trail (44 km), Olive Trail (24 km), and Quick Trail (12 km). This year’s race, held in early May, was packed with Greek and foreign runners. In addition, the middle of Corfu also offers a network of hiking trails that is approximately 42 kilometers long and designed according to Greek and international specifications, and consists of trails that attract a large number of hikers and nature lovers. 

Golf is yet another activity that is available in Corfu. The Corfu Golf Club at Ropa Valley in Ermones is a prominent 18-hole golf course, designed by the acclaimed architect Donald Harradine. It is open from March to November and recommended for novices to experienced players alike.

Cricket, a sport with a tradition that goes back two centuries, is still played by passionate enthusiasts in Corfu to this day. In fact, this year’s April 23rd marked the 200-year anniversary of the first cricket game in Corfu, held between rival teams from the British Navy – don’t forget that Corfu was under British rule during that time. Being the seat of the Hellenic Cricket Federation, and besides the official indoor and outdoor cricket championships, Corfu hosts tournaments and friendly matches between local and foreign teams all year round, which are held at the most atmospheric field in Europe: the square of Spianada, situated at the heart of the historical center of the city. In addition, the field inside the marina at Gouvia offers better comfort and infrastructures.

Are you thinking about which destination to choose for your next family vacations? Gift your loved ones with valuable and unique moments and memories in the Ionian Islands, a small “family” of Greek islands, and explore the wide range of experiences and thrills they can offer.

One of the most popular islands is Corfu, which is famous for its amazing beaches, historical monuments, and buzzing nightlife. Some of Corfu’s top landmarks include the Old Town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Achilleion Palace, built of Empress Elisabeth of Austria in late 19th century, and the beach of Canal d’Amour, formed by natural rock formations and coves which are ideal for swimming and sunbathing.

The Ionian Islands offer a rich and diverse cuisine, a blend of traditional Greek gastronomy and influences from other cultures. By emphasizing locally produced ingredients and the power of taste, it is made evident that the Ionian Islands are a special destination for all food lovers.

The Ionian Islands are famous for their “trademark” tasteful qualities, combining traditional Greek dishes with influences from the Italian, Turkish, and Venetian cuisine. The islands offer a wealth of fresh local ingredients such as fish, seafood, olive oil, vegetables, herbs, and wines. Their gastronomy constitutes a unique experience that is bound to thrill and delight all connoisseurs of fine food. 

Each Ionian Island features a variety of traditional recipes and dishes which are unique to the region.

Pastitsada – A rich meat stew prepared with veal or rooster, cooked in tomato sauce with cinnamon, clove, and allspice. Usually served with pasta.

Sofrito – Thin slices of beef cooked with white wine and garlic sauce. Usually served with mashed potatoes or rice.

Porpetes – Meatballs in red sauce.

Stoufado – The Corfiot version of stew, served with polenta. 

Bourdeto – A spicy fish stew made with scorpionfish or other local fishes, cooked in a tomato-based sauce, along with red pepper flakes, garlic, and onions.

Tsigareli – A spicy vegetarian dish made with wild vegetables.

The Ionian Islands have been a hub of religious activities for hundreds of years, hosting a vast number of churches, monasteries, and Byzantine monuments, many of which are open for religious tourists during the months of summer and spring, whether for pilgrimages or just out of desire to explore the rich history of the region through its religious tradition.

Saint Spyridon Church in the city of Corfu: Located in the heart of the city of Corfu, this church is among the most famous holy temples throughout Greece. It houses the relics of Saint Spyridon, the patron saint of the island, and a popular place of pilgrimage for Orthodox Christians.

Saint George Church: Located in the village of Kassiopi in North Corfu, this amazing Byzantine church was built during the 16th century and is decorated with beautiful frescoes and holy icons. It is a popular spot for pilgrims and open for visitors all year round.

Monastery of Panagia Spiliani: Located near the city of Corfu, built during the 13th century and famous for its cavern-like chapel that was carved into the rocks.

Monastery of Panagia Vlahernon: Located on a small island near Corfu airport and accessible through a small bridge. It was built in the 17th century and decorated with pleasing frescoes, and it also features a small museum with religious objects.

Monastery of Paleokastritsa: Located on a hilltop overlooking the sea at the namesake village. It was founded in the 13th century and is distinct for its amazing architecture, pleasing frescoes and small museum.

The celebration of the Dormition of Theokotos on the 15th of August is very important for the culture of the Ionian region and traditionally celebrated with litanies, festivals, and fireworks. Another very important date for Corfu is the 12th of December, which is the celebration of Saint Spyridon.

Moreover, during the year, there are four great litanies taking place in the city of Corfu, in commemoration of the miracles of Saint Spyridon, and held on the Sunday of the Palms, on the Holy Saturday, on August 11th, and on the First Sunday of November, all of which attract numerous devotees from Greece and abroad.

Due to their strategic location, the Ionian Islands drew many conquerors over the centuries and used the exchange between cultures and people to their advantage, resulting in the region’s religious diversity. Corfu is a great example of this phenomenon, on account of its active Catholic Archdiocese, Anglican Church, and Jewish Synagogue.

Cultural tourism is becoming more and more popular, and the Ionian Islands are among the best destinations for this type of tourism. By virtue of their exceptional natural beauty and rich history, the Ionian Islands offer a wide variety of cultural landmarks and activities.

Corfu, the largest of the Ionian Islands, is a treasure of cultural landmarks. One of its most popular destinations is Achilleion Palace, built in late 19th century for the Empress Elisabeth (Sissi) of Austria. The palace is an outstanding example of neoclassical architecture, decorated with splendid gardens full of fountains and statues in the Ancient Greek style. Visitors can explore its many rooms, which are present many works of art and antiques, and learn more about its fascinating history.

The Old Town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is yet another destination you should visit in Corfu. Its labyrinthine streets are full of Venetian buildings and Byzantine churches, while visitors are provided with the opportunity to explore the numerous museums and art galleries housed in such historical buildings.

From their ancient temples and ruins to the impressive fortresses and castles, the monuments of the Ionian Islands are testament to the multitude of cultures who have made these islands their “home” over the centuries.

One of the most impressive Ionian monuments is the Temple of Artemis in Corfu, built during the 6th century B.C. Although a large part of the temple was destroyed over the centuries, visitors may still admire the majestic remains of the temple’s foundations and columns.

The Old Fortress, built in the 16th century by the Venetians atop a rocky promontory with a view to the open sea and the surrounding landscape, is yet another ancient monument that you should visit while at Corfu. Visitors can explore the rooms and courtyards of the fortress, where they will discover a church, a prison building, and the lighthouse of the fortress. 

The Ionian Islands are home to plenty of museums that present visitors with an overview of the rich cultural and historical legacy of the region.

Archaeological Museum of Corfu: Its collection includes artifacts such as potteries, sculptures, and inscriptions from the Archaic, Classical, and Hellenistic periods. Its important exhibits include the Gorgon Pediment from the Temple of Artemis, which is regarded as one of the finest samples of ancient Greek sculpture.

Corfu Museum of Asian Art: Situated at the heart of the city of Corfu, it houses one of the finest collections of Asian art in Greece. Its exhibits include over 15,000 works of art, including potteries, textiles, and sculptures from China, Japan, and other countries of Asia. The museum also hosts periodical exhibitions and cultural events throughout the year.