Situated on Corfu’s east coast, conveniently close to the main town, the village of Benitses, sometimes known as Mpenitses, is an attractive former fishing village. These days, it’s tourism which is the backbone of the local economy, and Benitses provides all a visitor could want or need. You will find plenty of bars and restaurants, with the area around the boat-filled marina, acting as a focal point.
It’s just as easy to reach Benitses from the airport, which is itself just south of Corfu town – the journey should only take about 20 minutes. Closer still is a local landmark, the grand Achilleion house. This impressive property was originally built as a summer palace for Empress Elisabeth of Austria, and while her story is a tragic one, it is certainly an enjoyable place to visit, with wonderful views from the beautifully kept gardens.
To the north, Corfu town is well worth visiting, and features many architecturally impressive sights. The Royal Palace, which now houses a Museum of Asian Art, is a Neoclassical mansion with a fascinating collection of Indian, Japanese and Chinese works within. A pretty courtyard café enjoys views across the water towards the southern fringes of Albania.
Also noteworthy are the Old Fortress and the New Fortress, both built by the Venetians in the 16th century. Walk up the highest points of either and you can marvel at the views, although the buildings themselves are interesting to walk around. Set in a park in the Kanóni part of town, you can also see the birthplace of the Duke of Edinburgh, the palace of Mon Repos.
A possible excursion, while you are in Kanóni, is a boat trip to the peaceful islet of Pontikonísi, or Mouse Island – but only if you happen to be around on the one day of the year visitors are permitted (6th August). Perhaps the most photographed spot in the area, it is said to resemble a mouse when viewed from above. You can best capture it from outside the Panagia Vlacherna monastery, itself at the end of a walkway which extends into the sea.
