Driving 7km towards the east, Kassiopi, a once traditional fishing village is now the largest in northeastern Corfu and a busy tourist resort. It holds a special place in Corfu's long history, as much of a small headland to the north of the resort is taken up by a Byzantine fortress, that you can still visit today. Kassiopi is a fantastic place to spend a few hours in during the day or the evening; the local tavernas and cafes around its scenic harbour offer great food and snacks, there is plenty of leisurely shopping to be done and the nightlife is also a great addition to this resort.
Towards the west, also 7km from Agios Spyridon, rests the village of Acharavi. A place bursting with life throughout the year with locals and tourists alike, you will find there a variety of large Super Markets to do grocery shopping in - and even buy souvenirs such as KumQuat - as well as Pharmacies, restaurants and great Cafe's for the picky coffee drinkers.
TIP: You will find ATM's in both resorts that are NOT Euronet but owned by local banks, meaning you will get a much better rate for your currency.
If you are staying in Agios Spyridon or looking to visit the area, it is important to note that much of its charm and demand is due to the incredible nature surrounding it, and the sparse development of the area. These two combined, create a paradise for anyone looking to spend their holiday away from the hustle and the bustle of the busy resorts, and reconnect with themselves and their family.
The star of the scenery in Agios Spyridon is truly the Antinioti Lake and its ecosystem, along with the wild land surrounding it. It is an important wetland area protected under Natura 2000, home to a plethora of birds, fish and wildlife. This beautiful and unspoiled natural environment is open to anyone wanting to hike/run, in order to explore and discover it.
At the far end of Agios Spyridon beach you will see, as you approach, the huts where the management of the lake and its fish farm resides, so if you would like to do some fishing whilst you are here it is always important to check before you do so. There are also benches where you can sit and birdwatch as much as you like.
Walking over the bridge you are now in Nisos Island; a wild unihabited island home to particularly heavy vegetation and forest area, and grazing goats and sheep. Try to find the ruins of St. Catherines Monastery and the way to get in to see what is left!
Reaching now the Northest edge of the island, you will stumble upon two wild beaches, constantly hit by the waves, as nature intended. You might find it's empty, but you also may find a few nudist beach goers, as it is such a quiet area.
Walking around the path to the north mouth of the lake, Almyros beach stretches far and wide before you, and you can cross the narrow bridge and walk all the way to Acharavi if you like, following the coast.
TIP: Enjoy walking around the paths to see where they lead, and try to avoid walking through tall grass as you might unintentionally stumble across a snake. Please be aware of this anywhere you walk in Corfu in the summer as there are Vipers residing here too. They have a distinct zig-zag black line on their backs and are particularly small.
Built during the Byzantine Times, around the 14th Century, this village stands still in time, some 400m above sea level. A once permanently inhabited village by Corfiots seeking refuge away from their coastal homes that were being attacked by pirates, Old Perithia grew to be one of the richest villages in Corfu with no less than eight churches built by the wealthiest families.
Walking around this World Heritage Centre these days you will find there are only two permanent residents left, and the life in this quaint village consists of a few Tavernas with excellent home cooked and locally grown food, along with a beautiful guest house.
Old Perithia can be better reached by car, but if you are a serious hiker and you want to make the walk from St Spyridon up to the Village, it is strongly recommended to wear sensible walking shoes, and depending on the time of your visit, start the walk up as early as you can. If you are however driving, there is plenty of walking and exploring to be done around the village, as you discover each path within the village and around it.
Kerkyra, the Capital of Corfu, is arguably one of the most beautiful and interesting towns in Greece, due to its influence by the Venetians who for over four centuries occupied Corfu, and have built the -now- Old Town to bear a strong resemblance to Venice.
Visiting Corfu Town can be a wonderful experience for you, whether you are looking to discover the history and cultural influences of this cosmopolitan town, do a bit of shopping, or simply wander around the narrow cobbled streets; you are guaranteed a feast for your eyes!
Don't forget to visit the famous Liston & Spianada Square and walk around the historical and oldest neighbourhood in Corfu - Campiello.
Paxos & Antipaxos are two of the smallest Ionian Islands, located south of Corfu, and pack a punch when it comes to natural beauty!
Legend has it that when Poseidon, god of the seas, fell in love with Amphertiti, he struck the south tip of Corfu with his trident breaking it off and creating these two beautiful islands as a present to her.
They have become an iconic destination in the Ionian Sea; Paxos for its scenic harbours and quaint atmosphere, and Antipaxos for the most crystal clear, award-wining turqoise waters that would make you think you are swimming in the Carribean!
Paxos & Antipaxos are accessible only by boat and have a distance of 2 miles between them, meaning you can visit both in one day. You can book the two island excursion from most agencies - make sure you check it includes the Blue Caves also, as they are a must see.
