Is a Visit to Corfu Worthwhile? Reasons This Greek Island Shines

Is Corfu worth a visit?
Well, it truly depends on your preferences. To put it simply, if you’re the type of traveler who enjoys picturesque coves and crystal-clear turquoise waters, rugged mountain landscapes adorned with lush pine forests, charming villages with half-crumbled cottages and quaint eateries, and dramatic monasteries perched on cliffs, then absolutely, Corfu is a destination worth considering.

It’s no secret that Corfu is among the most coveted jewels of the Ionian Islands. This island has long been hailed as one of Greece’s most stunning destinations, boasting two distinct coastlines, lively towns, and serene family-friendly resorts. And not to forget, it’s home to perhaps the most vibrant hotspot of them all: Kavos.

In this guide, we’ll explore reasons why Corfu should definitely be on your radar for your next Greek getaway. From its dazzling beaches to the exciting inland adventures, from the unique flavors of Corfiot cuisine to the rich history and culture of Corfu Town, this island offers a wide array of attractions to cater to various types of travelers.

One of the appealing aspects is its accessibility.

Corfu is fortunate to have its very own airport among the Ionian Isles, known as Ioannis Kapodistrias International Airport (CFU). Notably, it ranks as one of the best-connected airports in the region. Typically, flights to Corfu operate seasonally, running from May to September, with a variety of options available, including routes from London, Edinburgh, and Bristol through budget carriers like Ryanair and easyJet. Additionally, there’s a year-round connection to Athens, ensuring access to the Greek capital throughout the year.

Furthermore, Corfu serves as a central hub for cross-Adriatic ferry routes originating from Italy. We’ll delve further into the advantages of island-hopping by boat in Corfu shortly, but it’s also advantageous for arriving travelers. Commercial ferries, usually overnight journeys, take approximately 12 hours from Italian ports such as Ancona, Venice, and Bari. Additionally, there are ferry services from mainland Greece, with many departing from the port in Igoumenitsa.

Exploring Corfu’s Scenic Hiking Trails

While Corfu’s beaches certainly capture the spotlight, they are just one captivating chapter in the island’s natural beauty. The majority of Corfu’s inland terrain is dominated by lush green hills, valleys filled with dense forests, and majestic peaks. In fact, Corfu boasts two distinct mountain ranges, one in the north and another in the south.

These areas provide an ideal escape for those seeking to lace up their hiking boots and venture away from the crowds. In the north, you can conquer the summit of Mount Pantokrator, which rises over 900 meters above sea level and offers panoramic views that stretch across the Balkans and Albania beyond the strait. Alternatively, in the southern part of the island, there’s the trail to Agi Deka, leading hikers through springtime meadows adorned with wildflowers near the charming Pelekas village.

Hiking trails also meander along the coastline, offering captivating experiences. Cape Drastis, with its unique landscape of alabaster rock formations sculpted by the Adriatic Sea, is certainly one to keep on your radar. Additionally, there’s a scenic path through coastal scrubland leading to Porto Timoni, a hidden paradise of a beach on the western shore that could easily be mistaken for a tropical destination like Thailand.

Activities to Enjoy in Corfu

When it comes to Corfu holidays, there’s so much more to experience than simply lounging on sandy shores and soaking up the sun. This beautiful island offers a diverse range of activities catering to culture enthusiasts, romantics, history aficionados, and more.

Staying true to the Greek tradition, boat excursions often top the list of must-do activities. They can transport you from towns like Agios Gordios, Kassiopi, and Palaiokastritsa to hidden corners of the Corfiot coastline inaccessible by rental cars. These day trips often include stops at places like Paradise Beach, nestled between imposing cliffs and adorned with mesmerizing grottoes carved into its rocks.

Back on solid ground, we highly recommend a visit to Vlacherna Monastery. Perched on a tiny island south of the airport, this monastery boasts whitewashed walls and ancient shrines dating back to the 1600s. Another captivating church can be found in Paleokastritsa, with a history spanning over 800 years and housing intriguing Byzantine artifacts. Additionally, atop Pantokratoras mountain in the north, you’ll discover Pantokratoras Monastery, a significant pilgrimage site that adds to Corfu’s cultural tapestry.

Delicious Culinary Delights in Corfu

Corfu artfully blends the vibrant Mediterranean flavors of Greece with the hearty and rustic elements of Slavic cuisine found on the Balkan Peninsula. Additionally, there’s a notable Italian influence from across the Adriatic, further enriched by the island’s abundant seafood offerings, thanks to its proficient fishing fleets in the Ionian Sea. The result? A tantalizing array of dishes sure to delight the palates of discerning food enthusiasts.

Make sure to savor:

1. Sofrito – Tender beef cuts simmered in an enticing sauce crafted with onions, white wine, and an abundance of peppercorns.
2. Pastitsada – A hearty and satisfying highland stew featuring game meat, mutton or lamb, seasoned with aromatic spices, and enriched with a luscious tomato passata.
3. Bourdeto – The Italian culinary influence is unmistakable in this delightful combination of baked peppers and onions, garnished with zesty lemon zest and fresh parsley.

Throughout most towns and villages, you’ll find traditional Greek tavernas offering these culinary delights. Even in the quaint highland hamlets, there’s typically at least one establishment where you can savor the flavors of the local cuisine. For those seeking seafood, the historic fishing ports of Kassiopi, Kalami, and Nisaki are prime destinations, often serving freshly caught delicacies straight from the boat.

Corfu’s Rich Historical Legacy

Corfu’s Rich Historical Heritage

Corfu has been inhabited for centuries, dating back to ancient times when it was known as Kerkyra. It played a significant role in the early stages of the Peloponnesian War, one of ancient Greece’s most fiercely contested conflicts, and featured prominently in legendary tales like the Argonauts’ quest and the Homeric epics. Today, traces of this ancient history can still be discovered, including:

1. Temple of Artemis Gorgon – Impressive remnants of a colossal temple adorned with captivating gorgon friezes, considered an early example of the true Doric architectural style, dating back to 580 BC.

2. Palaiopolis Archaeological Site – This extensive excavation site encompasses the ruins of what is believed to have been the ancient city of Kerkyra.

However, Corfu’s historical narrative extends well beyond ancient times. The island boasts more modern marvels, such as the formidable Corfu Old Fortress, constructed by the Venetians to safeguard the harbor entrance. Culture enthusiasts can also explore the picturesque Paleokastritsa Monastery, painted a vibrant yellow with blooming flowers adorning its surroundings and featuring mystical shrines dedicated to the Virgin Mary within.

Is Corfu Worth Visiting?
Is Corfu Worth Visiting? Without a doubt! This guide has unveiled the enchanting beauty of Corfu’s coastline, from the picturesque bays of Paleokastritsa to the charming pebble beaches of Rovinia, just to name a couple. It has also ventured into the island’s interior, where adventurous hikes lead to breathtaking viewpoints overlooking Albania. Additionally, we explored the quaint villages, adorned with charming Byzantine churches and centuries-old cottages.

Corfu’s status as one of Greece’s enduring vacation hotspots is well-deserved, thanks to its ability to cater to a wide range of travelers and offer a plethora of activities. Whether you’re a family seeking relaxation in a tranquil resort, a partygoer in search of the vibrant Kavos Strip, or a nature enthusiast eager to explore Greek hiking trails, Corfu has something special to offer that might make it the perfect choice for your next getaway!