Prepare to embark on a 5-hour journey that unveils the enchanting beauty of Corfu, taking you through picturesque landscapes, tantalizing your taste buds with local delicacies, and providing panoramic views of the Ionian Sea. Join us as we explore this captivating Greek island.
Countryside Exploration: Makrades & Lakones
Our adventure commences with a leisurely drive through the picturesque countryside, meandering through the charming villages of Makrades and Lakones. As we wind our way through rolling hills, you’ll be entranced by the verdant landscapes, fragrant citrus groves, and the traditional architecture that defines rural Corfu. These unspoiled villages offer a glimpse into authentic island life, far from the tourist crowds.
Savoring Local Flavors
Next on our itinerary is a delightful culinary experience, where you’ll have the opportunity to relish Corfu’s finest local products. Taste the richness of locally baked bread dipped in exquisite Corfiot olive oil, savor wines crafted from indigenous grape varieties, and indulge in the unique flavors of kumquat liqueur, a regional specialty. These tastes encapsulate the essence of Corfu’s culinary heritage, leaving your taste buds tingling with delight.
Breathtaking Views and Monastery Visit
Prepare to be enchanted by awe-inspiring vistas of the Ionian Sea from various vantage points along our route. Corfu’s natural beauty, with its azure waters and lush landscapes, unfolds before your eyes, offering ample opportunities for breathtaking photos.
Our journey then leads us to one of Corfu’s oldest monasteries, Paleokastritsa Monastery, founded in 1826. Step back in time as you explore tranquil courtyards and visit the monastery’s historic olive press, where monks once produced the island’s renowned olive oil. This site not only celebrates Corfu’s religious heritage but also its rich agricultural traditions.
Optional Boat Excursion (additional fee)
For those seeking an extra dose of adventure, you can choose to embark on a boat excursion to explore the caves of Paleokastritsa. Discover hidden grottoes, crystal-clear waters, and perhaps even visit the famous cave of Nausicaa from Homer’s epic Odyssey. This optional add-on allows you to delve deeper into the island’s marine wonders without the need for advance booking, providing flexibility to suit your preferences.
Pontikonisi and Kanoni Visit
Our tour now takes you to two of Corfu’s most iconic spots. First, we’ll visit Pontikonisi, one of the most famous sights in the Ionian Sea. Pontikonisi is renowned for its unique Byzantine chapel of the Pantocrator, dating back to the 11th century. Visitors have a rare opportunity to explore this chapel, as it’s open only once a year on August 6th. Often confused with the Monastery of Vlacherna, Pontikonisi is a gem that deserves your attention.
Continuing our journey, we arrive at Kanoni, another famous and highly photographed location in Corfu. Named after an old cannon that stands atop a hill, Kanoni offers stunning views of the Ionian Sea. Descend the hill, and you’ll reach the small church of Panagia Vlacherna, connected to the island by a narrow 300-meter passageway. This 17th-century chapel boasts an impressive wooden-carved iconostasis and beautiful frescoes. Its red-tiled roof and tall bell tower add to its charm.
Corfu Town Exploration
Our final destination is Corfu Town, nestled on a small peninsula halfway down the island’s east coast. This historic town was strategically chosen for its natural port and the two peaks that lent themselves to fortress-building. Initially, a small medieval town grew here during Angevin rule (1267-1368), surrounded by thick defensive walls and guarded by two imposing castles.
However, it was under Venetian rule, which lasted for approximately 400 years (from 1386-1797), that Corfu Town truly prospered. Explore the captivating streets, historical architecture, and vibrant culture of this charming town, and discover the enduring legacy of its Venetian influence.
Join us on this 5-hour tour of Corfu, where we’ll unravel the island’s natural beauty, culinary treasures, historical legacies, and iconic landmarks. It’s a journey that promises to leave you with lasting memories of Corfu’s enchanting charm.