Roadtrip in Corfu
Corfu, the emerald of the Ionian, is an island with countless faces. From the Venetian alleyways of the Old Town to the olive groves of the south and the steep capes of the north, the island offers an inexhaustible wealth of experiences. And what better way to live it all than a roadtrip that brings you in touch with the authentic Corfu?
The journey begins in the historic center of Corfu, the Old Town, which is protected by UNESCO. Before you get behind the wheel, it’s worth walking through the alleyways, enjoying a coffee at Liston Square overlooking the cricket field, and visiting the Old and New Fortresses. The town is full of culture, museums, galleries, and also small shops with local products such as kumquat, olive oil, and soap.
Leaving the town behind, you head northwest toward Paleokastritsa. The road winds through olive groves and constantly offers panoramic views of the Ionian. In Paleokastritsa, you can visit the 13th-century monastery of the same name, take a boat ride to sea caves, or dive into the cool and crystal clear waters. A bit higher up, a narrow road leads to the village of Lakones and the famous Bella Vista, from where the view takes your breath away. If you have time, you can hike toward the ruins of Angelokastro, a medieval castle built on a rock.
From there, you continue north and pass through mountain villages like Valanio or Sokraki, with traditional architecture and authentic taverns. The road eventually leads you to Pantokrator, the highest mountain of Corfu, where you can visit the monastery and enjoy panoramic views of the entire island, even the shores of Albania.
Descending, you reach Kassiopi, a beautiful seaside settlement with a picturesque harbor, castle ruins, and many dining options by the waves. If you’re a sea lover, nearby beaches like Kalamionas, Kanoni, and Bataria definitely deserve a stop. On the route toward southern Corfu, it’s worth stopping at Achilleion, the palace of Empress Elisabeth of Austria, known as Sisi. The palace is full of artworks and offers a unique view.
As you head further south, the pace becomes more relaxed. Moraitika and Messonghi offer a more family-friendly atmosphere, with sandy beaches and seaside taverns. A bit further ahead awaits Boukari, a small fishing village, ideal for those seeking peace. There, you can enjoy fresh fish, sun, and absolute serenity without the fanfare of tourism. If you want to dive into something more secluded, head to Lake Korission and the beach of Halikounas. Here the landscape becomes wild: dunes, a lagoon, pine forest, and a vast sandy strip separating the lake from the sea. A paradise for photographers, nature lovers, and kitesurfers.
A Complete Experience
Turning westward, the road takes you to places like Glyfada, Pelekas, and Kontogialos, with high cliffs, clean beaches, and the most stunning sunset on the island. Pelekas, in particular, has the reputation of the “balcony of the Ionian.” From there, you can watch the sunset painting the sea orange.
Approaching Corfu town again, you can make your final stops in traditional villages such as Sinarades, where there is a folklore museum, or visit a winery to taste local wine. Your trip can ideally end with a final dinner at a taverna in Kanoni, overlooking Pontikonisi and the Monastery of Vlacherna, among the most photographed images of the island.
A roadtrip in Corfu is not just moving from point A to B. It is a multi-layered experience: history, nature, flavors, people, and moments that stay in memory. The beauty of Corfu lies not only in the well-known attractions but in the unexpected ones you discover along the way. In the corners that are not advertised, but reveal the true character of the island. Corfu, therefore, not only for holidays but for exploration. With the car, with the windows down and your senses on alert. Because every turn, every kilometer, hides something magical.
