Handpicking the Best of Corfu

The stunning Achilleion Palace.

Left page: Wandering Corfu Town's rustic alleys.

Often referred to by the Greeks themselves as Greece’s most beautiful island, Corfu offers visitors a seductive myriad of distinct attractions to marvel at.

CORFU OLD TOWN: Like a scene out of a classic film, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is dazzling with its array of stately neoclassical buildings and famous alleyways. PHOTO-OPS: Think of Corfu, and images of Pontikonisi [Mouse Island], just large enough to hold the Pantokrator monastery, and the famous islet of Vlacherna, with its 17thcentury monastery dedicated to the Virgin Mary, will invariably come to mind. BEACHES: Visit the spectacular sandstone beaches of Sidari and the tunnel-like Canal d’Amour, where a swim is said to find you your soulmate. In fact, Corfu’s list of beaches is endless – from secluded picturesque coves to vast, vibrant stretches of sand with beach bars, tavernas, shops, water sports and luxury hotels.

EASTER IN CORFU: An oncein-a-lifetime world-famous experience, especially on Holy Saturday when, following local custom, clay jars are thrown from balconies to smash into little pieces onto the streets below.

ACHILLEION PALACE: Built to console the Empress Elizabeth of Austria after the death of her son, this elegant Pompeii-style building with its beautiful gardens is a must-visit. MON REPOS: The villa houses the Paleopolis Archeological Museum as well as botanical gardens with over 2,000 rare species of plants from the British colonies, who have taken to the Mediterranean climate.

PALEOKASTRITSA: One of the most beautiful resorts in Corfu, this renowned beauty spot of lush greenery stretches across six rocky coves. ANGELOKASTRO: Built early in the 12th century, this Byzantine castle is located at the highest peak of the island’s shoreline, boasting fantastic views.