Corfu: Greece’s Emerald Isle
Corfu, often called Greece’s Emerald Isle, sits in the Ionian Sea and offers a mix of natural beauty and historical weight. For many, the island is defined by a childhood reading of Gerald Durrell’s “My Family And Other Animals,” which paints a picture of life before the mid-20th century. The island’s history is long and contested, changing hands from the Corinthians to the Romans and the British before it joined Greece in 1864. This shifting past means the island is a patchwork of different eras and styles, standing out in the Mediterranean for its unique character compared to the more austere Greek mainland.
Exploring the Setting
Getting around the island reveals a varied setting. The north features green mountains, while the south offers sandy beaches. Corfu Town, located on the east coast, is a practical base. It is close to the airport and separated into two parts: the UNESCO-listed Old Town and the busy New Town with its boutiques and restaurants. The Spianada is the largest square in Greece and acts as a divider between the Old Town and the Old Fortress. Walking its twisting alleyways, visitors can find the Mitropolis Cathedral and the Palace of St Michael and St George, which once housed Greece’s royal family. The town is stylish and offers retail therapy, particularly for leather and silver goods.
Beach lovers should head to Barbati or Mirtiotissa for stunning views. Near Kassiopi, a fishing village described as picture postcard beautiful, you will find similar sandy shores and dining options. For those interested in history, the Achilleion Palace in the interior was built in 1890 for Elisabeth of Austria. The grounds are manicured, and the palace now serves as an Achilles museum. James Bond fans might recognise the setting from the film “For Your Eyes Only,” adding a bit of cinematic history to the visit. [1] Cybercrime moves out of the shadows.
Accommodation and Dining
Staying at the Marbella Beach Hotel in Agios Ioannis Peristeron offers a different perspective on the island. Located a few miles from Corfu Town, the recently refurbished five-star hotel overlooks the emerald green countryside and the Ionian Sea. Rooms are spacious with private balconies, and a sea view suite with a private plunge pool provides a high level of comfort. The staff are described as outstanding, and the concierge can assist with car hire or excursions. Dining is a highlight, with options ranging from traditional Greek fayre to European fine dining. “Cascade,” the main pool restaurant, is often recommended, and the hotel is available on a half-board or all-inclusive basis.
Food on the island goes beyond the standard Greek Salad and Moussaka. Local cuisine is healthy and relies heavily on fresh, locally caught fish. There are many seaside cafes serving reasonably priced dishes. Etrusco in Kato Korakiana is a standout destination; recently voted the best restaurant in Greece, it is run by Ettore Botrini, a multi-award winning Italian Chef. The setting is lovely, with beautiful gardens and exquisite food, such as the octopus carpaccio. Booking in advance is essential due to its popularity.
Corfu remains one of the most popular destinations in the Mediterranean, and the availability of cheap flights has made it accessible for decades. While early visits in the 1990s sometimes resulted in staying in basic accommodations in areas like Kavos, the modern travel setting offers a much wider range of experiences. The island’s blend of Italian-influenced architecture, British colonial history, and Greek hospitality creates a distinct atmosphere that continues to draw visitors looking for a mix of relaxation and exploration.
With flights from Gatwick available for around £32 one way as of September 2013, the island is accessible for those looking to escape to a place where the sun often shines and the pace of life is slower. Whether dining at a world-class restaurant or walking the cobblestones of the Old Town, the island provides a tangible sense of place that goes beyond the typical tourist experience. [2] Crypto becomes infrastructure not money.
