corfu Other islands

Other islands

Other islands

Corfu Island is surrounded by several small inhabited and uninhabited islands. All these islands near Corfu island offer you a unforgettable experience either for daily trips either for longer stay.

PAXOS AND ANTIPAXOS (south of Corfu)

DIAPONTIA ISLANDS (North-west of Corfu)

VIDO & LAZARETTO Islands (north of Corfu)

PONTIKONISI (small island near Kanoni)

PAXI AND ANTIPAXIPAXI (OR PAXOS), the smallest of the Ionian islands, lies 10 miles south of Corfu.The island resembles one vast garden thickly covered with olives planted by the Venetians over three hundred years ago, tall pine trees and an abundance of wild flowers. The vegetation descends to over 30 sheltered pebbly beaches on the east coast and the dramatic cliffs of the west coast. The sea has an enchanting turquoise color and, thanks to the depth and rocky seabed, the water is crystal clear and clean, never turning murky, offering excellent visibility for snorkelling and scuba diving. There are 3 main villages, Gaios (the main port) & Longos facing to the east and Lakka at the northern tip of the island. The architecture is distinctively Ionian and the overall atmosphere is particularly charming with a delightful contrast of colours: whitewashed walls, pastel coloured shutters, multi-coloured café bar sun umbrellas, crimson and purple bougainvillea, passion flower vines, oleander trees, potted plants on Venetian balconies and shop displays of fresh fruit.

ANTIPAXI (OR ANTIPAXOS), the little island just one mile off the south tip of Paxoi, has only 30 permanent inhabitants and two of the loveliest sandy beaches in the Mediterranean, Vrika and Voutoumi, which are comparable to beaches found in the Caribbean. The island is equally verdant, with cypresses, cedars, myrtles, pinesweet wine which is very popular and hard to find due to the limited quantity.Both islands are ideal for exploration, either by boat (small dingies are available for rent) or on foot. The south and west coasts are doted with grottoes, littoral caves, and tiny unpopulated islands whereas on the land one can visit uninhabited villages, ancient fortresses, monasteries and lighthouses. Paxi have a frequent connection with the mainland village of Parga, another truly picturesque location, from where one can be taken up the ancient River Styx (gate to the underworld in the Greek mythology) by a local boatman.

THE DIAPONTIA ISLANDS (a gateway to the Adriatic Sea) are located in the Ionian Sea, at the westernmost point of Greece, just 10 km away from Corfu Island.The Diapontia Islands consist of three bigger islands: Othoni, Ereikousa and Mathraki as well as nine uninhabited islets.

OTHONOI ISLAND

Othonoi island is the largest island of the Diapontia Islands and the westernmost part of Greece. It is 40 nautical miles from Italy. When the weather is good, the Italian cape of Otranto, Santa Maria di Leuca, is visible.The highest mountain of the island Imerovigli is at 393 meters. It has about 400 inhabitants. The small Greek island, full of history, natural beauty, and beautiful beaches, invites travelers to a unique journey through time.According to Greek mythology this is the island that Homer calls Ogygia in the Odyssey. It is considered to be the island where Odysseus stayed for seven years with the nymph Calypso.Othonoi can be reached from either the main harbor of Corfu or by catching a small boat from St. Stefanos village on the northwest side of the island.

ERICUSA ISLAND

Erikousa is the most northern, inhabited island of the Ionia Sea. It’s the second biggest of the island complex called “Diapondia Islands” just 8 nautical miles from Sidari Port (North Corfu). Named after the bush “Reiki” which flourishes during October and makes the island a purple oasis. Erikousa is a hidden gem and a small paradise where guests can relax and come closer to nature. If you love hiking through green mountain alleys and feel amazed by azure Ionian waters, Erikousa should be on your bucket list. The island has two beautiful beaches, Porto, which is the island’s main port and Bragini, a quiet sandy beach. Although a small island (just 4,5 sq.kil) you may find plenty of choices for food and entertainment.

MATHRAKI ISLAND.

Located near the northern coast of Corfu, Mathraki is one of the most secluded Greek islands to visit for total peace of mind! It belongs to the Diapontia island complex along with Erikoussa, Othoni and few uninhabited island (Dioblo and others).

Mathraki is usually visited by people who enjoy isolation and privacy. With hardly any facilities and a lush green natural setting, it makes a great day-trip destination from Corfu!Although there are not many things to do on the island, but you can find some perfect beaches, sights and taverns.Mathraki can be reached by ferry from Corfu. The nearest airport to the island is also located there.

VIDO & LAZARETTO Islands (north of Corfu)

PONTIKONISI (small island near Kanoni)