Corfu

Corfu is an island of remarkable diversity. From its golden beaches and UNESCO-protected capital to unspoilt villages and verdant landscapes, it combines natural beauty with a rich cultural heritage.

Corfu’s history is long and fascinating. Once a major power in Greece, the island was fortified by the Venetians to repel Turkish attacks — their influence remains visible in the UNESCO-listed Old Town. Venetian rule also introduced olive cultivation, and today over three million olive trees produce some of Greece’s finest olive oil.

Subsequent French and British occupations left their mark. The French built the Liston colonnaded walkway, inspired by Paris’s Rue de Rivoli, while the British introduced cricket and the popular local ginger beer.

Corfu became part of modern Greece on May 21, 1864, with the Eptanissos or Seven Islands of the Ionian. Festivals throughout the year — from the candlelit Easter celebrations and fireworks to processions of the patron saint St Spiridon and music events — bring the island’s history and culture vibrantly to life.

Corfu offers visitors a blend of stunning scenery, rich heritage, and lively culture, making it an island that’s both cosmopolitan and unmistakably Greek.

Rediscover the World offers a selection of smaller hotels on the island allowing visitors to explore Corfu’s hidden corners. Discover the rugged west coast, the fertile Ropa Valley, the mountain scenery of Pantokrator with views across to Albania, or the southern dunes and wildlife sanctuary of Lake Korission.

Beyond the popular resorts lies the authentic Corfu, where Greek tradition and a lively exchange of cultures create a truly memorable holiday experience.

Acharavi & Almyros, North Corfu
Set on the northern tip of Corfu near Roda, this family-friendly resort is surrounded by olive groves, vineyards, and striking mountain scenery. The famous Corfu Trail passes just behind the town, offering superb walking routes.

Acharavi’s highlight is its beautiful 3km sandy beach (with some pebbly stretches) and shallow waters—ideal for families. The main village area offers sunbeds, umbrellas, beachfront tavernas, and a choice of watersports.

The lively high street provides easy parking and a great mix of shops, cafés, and restaurants, while the nearby Almyros area offers a quieter atmosphere. Along its long, peaceful beach, you’ll find a few traditional tavernas with stunning sea views and refreshing breezes, even in summer. 

Barbati, North-East Corfu
Barbati is a charming mountainside village offering spectacular views across the sea to Corfu Town and the mountains of Albania. The village has a good choice of tavernas, gift shops and a supermarket, and it’s just a 10-minute stroll downhill to the beach.

The long shingle beach stretches for over a kilometre and remains one of the prettiest on Corfu’s east coast. It’s largely unspoilt, with sunbeds and umbrellas available to hire. For a more secluded adventure, you can rent a small boat and explore nearby coves at your own pace.

Just along the coast lies Kalami, once home to the famous authors Gerald and Lawrence Durrell.

Corfu Old Town
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Corfu’s Old Town is a captivating blend of history, culture, and charm. Framed by two impressive Venetian fortresses, its maze of narrow streets reveals colourful buildings, quiet squares, and Byzantine churches, with sea views around every corner.

The lively morning market and boutique shops offer everything from local crafts and olive wood products to designer fashion. Along the elegant Liston promenade, stylish cafés invite you to unwind and watch the world go by.

Pelekas, West Corfu

Perched on a hilltop, Pelekas is a charming village with a lively square and a good choice of cafés and tavernas. 

A short drive away, you’ll find several beautiful sandy beaches—including one known for its more laid-back, clothing-optional atmosphere.

Pelekas is also famous for the Kaiser’s Throne, a stunning viewpoint once visited by Kaiser Wilhelm II, offering spectacular sunsets and panoramic views across the island.