Corfu, the second largest of the islands in the Ionian Sea, has plenty of Venetian and Byzantine influence in the architecture. Literally translated, the name means 'a pair of peaks' as the island has two hills topped with fortresses that once successfully defended the island from the Ottoman Empire. With interesting locals, beautiful beaches and fantastic Corfiot cuisine, this island has everything you need for a fantastic holiday.
Corfu Town is just 8km from the villa. Made up of narrow, winding lanes, dotted with Venetian and Neoclassical architecture in ochre and burnt sienna. Visit Spianada Square, a space where locals congregate to catch up over a coffee - just off it is the Old Fortress. Built on the site of a former acropolis atop a rocky peninsula, make a pilgrimage to the top for captivating views, passing a small chapel and museum on the way.
Liston Arcade, with its promenade inspired by the Rue de Rivoli in Paris is also nearby. Made up of elegant arches with lots of cafes, the promenade is a perfect spot for people-watching with a coffee. There's plenty of tasty food to try all over Corfu, such as bourdeto, which consists of rockfish in a tomato sauce with onions and garlic. Try pastralio, consisting of fried aubergine layered with cheese and baked with boiled eggs, pancetta or salami with a tomato and basil sauce.
A popular day trip from Corfu is to nearby Pontikosini (Mouse Island) where there is a tiny Byzantine monastery encompassed by pine and cypress trees. According to local legend, this is the spot of Ulysses' ship after it was turned to stone by Poseidon. The island gets its name as it's said to be the outline of a mouse when you look at it from a bird's eye view.
A day trip to see iconic Acheillio, the summer palace of Empress Sisi of Austria, is a highlight of many a trip to Corfu. Located in Gastouri, a short drive away, the palace was inspired by Greek mythology and finished in 1898. Around the historical palace, there are iconic sculptures of Achilles, Hera and Zeus. The palace is encircled by beautiful gardens and has amazing views of the Ionian Sea.
Corfu famously has lots of glorious beaches to spend a day with your toes in the sand and indulge in a leisurely swim in the Ionian Sea. There is a beach just five minutes from the villa, and Agios Gordious beach is also close, with its beautiful jade green water and sugary soft sand. The name comes from the church on the beachfront. The road that leads up to it is very picturesque, passing through olive trees and vineyards.
