Destination Corfu 2023 by Terra Communications

destination Corfu

Trip to the heart of the Mediterranean guided by Homer

2023

a

There is

route that leads you deeper into the local spirit

index

Discover you in Corfu 2-3

Where is Corfu 4-7

What Kind of People are the Inhabitants of Corfu 8-9

Corfu through Centuries 10-11

Ionian University 12-17

Ionian Islands 18-19

Ionian Film Office 20-21 Yvette Manessis 22-24

Corfu Food & Wine Festival 25-33 Events 32-35 Carnival 36-37 Easter 40-41 Summertime 42 Pure Magic 46-49 Wintertime 50-51 Life in the village 52-53

Active Tourism 54-55

The Routes of Discovery 56

Destination Corfu Annual Special Issue published by: Terra Communications editor: Panayiotis C. Anagnostakos photograpers: Vlassis Tsonos, Adonis Skordilis art director: Nikos Tsiropoulas - Synthesis Address: 9, Kapodistriou str, 49131 Corfu, Greece , T. +30 2661 024125 E: info@destinationcorfu.gr, hello@terracommunications.gr www.destinationcorfu.gr

Is it your destiny to visit Corfu?*

*ask Odysseus

According to Homer’s Odyssey, the naked Odysseus, lost, disoriented and not knowing how he was to get home, was shipwrecked on Corfu, the island of the Phaeacians. He told anyone that asked that his name was Nobody.

The islanders, not caring about his external appearance, offered him hospitality as if he were a king. They gave him food and wine, played music and danced, organised games -

just for his pleasure. Through this hospitality Odysseus discovered his true self - the king that was hidden within him - and so found his destination. His homeland. Ithaki. Today, following in the footsteps of that ancient traveller, we invite you to Corfu to stay with us, drink our wine, taste our food, listen to our music, dance with us and discover the king that is hidden within you. Discover your true self.

Discover you in Corfu

At every event the speaker or the artist occupies centre stage. The podium or stage is always in the centre.

Homer set his central hero, Odysseus, to narrate his story which came to us through the two classic epics the Iliad and the Odyssey, in Corfu. Maybe because for Homer, Corfu was the centre of the then known world. Of the Mediterranean.

Where in the world is Corfu?

According to Thomas Gautier Pesquet, a French aerospace engineer, pilot, and European Space Agency astronaut, Corfu is in “Odysseus’ neighbourhood” “du côté de chez Ulysse”.

Astronauts love to capture this area.

Corfu, the heart of the Mediterranean.

Chris Austin Hadfield, a great Canadian astronaut, engineer, fighter pilot and musician, Tweeted twice the same picture taken by him, which shows Corfu together with the coastline opposite, forming a heart. Corfu is the heart of the Mediterranean.

What kind of people are the inhabitants of Corfu?

In order to convey in a few words the identity of Corfu and the everyday life of the people of Corfu, we borrow the description given by their king Alcinous about 2,800 years ago, when he too felt the need to explain to his guest Odysseus what Corfu is and who are the Corfiots.

“For we are not faultless boxers or wrestlers, but in the foot race we run swiftly, and we are the best seamen; and ever to us is the banquet dear, and the lyre, and the dance, and changes of raiment, and warm baths, and bed”.

Corfu through centuries

If we say about Greece that it stands between East and West, then surely Corfu is the bridge between those two utterly different worlds Corfu’s journey through the centuries has followed a richly historical course. From Homer and the traces he discovered here of the Phaiacians, as well as the presence of Odysseus, to the Athenians, the Macedonians, the Romans and the Byzantines, Corfu has been influenced by many different cultures, has acted as their receiver and later as the transmitter of new ideas.

During Venetian times the easternmost port of the Western Powers, it was the first port

of entry, the meeting place of the world’s cultures. In its centuriesold history, it was besieged by almost all the great powers, and was occupied by the Angevins, the Venetians, the French and the English. It retained its Greek origin, however, and enriched it with western influences and thus a complex culture developed, and a unique way of life. Here, at the meeting-place of the world’s civilisations, much awaits the visitorhistoric monuments, rich tradition, a high quality of life, art, original ideas, impressive events, true Greek hospitality and, of course, good local wine and excellent food.

The province of Corfu (Corfu, Paxos, Antipaxos and the Diapontian Islands), comprising 638 square kilometers, today has 100,000 inhabitants, a third of whom live in the town of Corfu. Almost without exception they are hospitable people, polite and with a spontaneous sense of humour, expressed in their conversation.

This fruitful, historic and beautiful place has endowed them with a tendency to be parochial, with no particular urge to become noted travellers. The few Corfiots who have emigrated tend to originate from the barren Diapontian Islands or from very

poor families. The rest of the province’s inhabitants stay put and are chiefly employed in tourism and agriculture. Today, Corfu offers a great variety of amenities which must satisfy even the most demanding visitor. The efforts of the very active tourism system have resulted in making Corfu wellknown for different forms of alternative tourism.

Its great natural beauty and its mythical charms are the basis of its attraction for people who come from all over the world to spend their holidays here.

IONIAN UNIVERSITY

Discover your future

Ionian University was founded in 1984 in the city of Corfu, Greece, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a unique aesthetic, rich history, and multidimensional cultural tradition. It is the proud academic successor of the Ionian Academy, the first Greek University, which was founded and operated on the island of Corfu from 1824 until the union of the Ionian Islands with Greece in 1864.

Ionian University consists of five Faculties and ten Departments, located not only on Corfu (its seat) but also on three other islands: Kefalonia, Zakynthos, and Lefkada. The subjects studied and the curricula of the university Departments in the humanities, science, economics and the arts exhibit a notable degree of originality. Some of them are unique in Greece, complementing this originality with a high degree of interdisciplinarity. The graduates of the University have brilliant academic and research prospects. Having a solid educational and research presence in the national and international academic and research world, Ionian University offers the necessary skills for a successful professional or academic career through its undergraduate studies, nineteen Master’s programs and several opportunities for doctoral and postdoctoral research it provides.

Guided by high-quality criteria and focusing primarily on the students, academic life is characterised by responsiveness and the provision of a variety of educational and pastoral services available to students, such as:

Accommodation and Catering Services: Many students are offered free accommodation based on financial and social criteria. In addition, student restaurants operate on every island with a university department.

Library and Information Center: A modern university library offers approximately 80,000 titles of documents (books, brochures, offprints, audiovisual material, etc.), as well as digital copies and subscriptions to electronic databases.

Studies abroad with the Erasmus + Program: This program allows students to study or do an internship abroad and learn foreign languages at about 250 partner universities with which Ionian University cooperates.

Internships: During their undergraduate studies, students have the opportunity to complete training for two months in public or private institutions in any city of Greece under the guidance of an employee of the host institution and the supervision of faculty members from Ionian University.

Career Office: The Career Office offers substantial support to students and graduates through a series of initiatives, actions, and tools, such as personalised career counselling, information on postgraduate studies and scholarships, information on internships and training seminars, the establishment, organisation, and operation of the Alumni network and the creation of long-lasting relations between graduates and the University.

Counselling Service: The counselling service provides support to students, offering services such as counselling and psychological support, occupational therapy, or sessions with a social worker. In addition, the Student Ombudsman mediates between students and faculty members or the university’s administrative services to ensure legal compliance regarding student matters within the framework of academic freedom and proper functioning.

Lifelong Learning Center: The centre provides professional development, training, and lifelong learning programs to higher education graduates, employees of companies and organisations, or adults in general, offering certification to the trainees. Research is an essential pillar of the activities of Ionian University, and the University Research Center has recently been added to the crucial research ecosystem. The centre aims to support cutting-edge research, junior researchers, and interdisciplinary projects; it fosters connections with centres of excellence, manages the creation of knowledge repositories, and promotes applied research at the regional level, as well as collaborations with entities responsible for the exploitation of research results. The social impact of the operation of Ionian University is ongoing, focusing on the Region of the Ionian Islands and beyond. Through actions such as the establishment of the network of Museums of Ionian University, the establishment

of the UNESCO Chair against threats to Cultural Heritage, the recent establishment of the Ionian Hall of Science, and the founding participation in the International Network of Scholars at Risk (SAR) in Greek higher education institutes, Ionian University make a significant contribution in several vital areas, responding to actual societal needs.

Ionian University Summer Schools

Summer schools are a unique opportunity for researchers and scientists from around the world to participate in state-of-the-art research and teaching activities and to exchange innovative ideas and methods while exploring the beautiful island of Corfu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Ionian University departments organise Summer Schools annually, allowing participants to attend lectures by prominent academics, participate in various workshops and exchange views through creative dialogue.

Current Summer Schools

Department of History, Department of Foreign Languages, Translation, and Interpreting, Department of Music, Corfu: The Summer School of Greek Language, History and Culture, co-organised by the departments mentioned above, is aimed at people from the Greek diaspora, as well as people who wish to gain an introduction to or deepen their knowledge of the Greek language, history and culture. The courses are held at Ionian University in Corfu and take place over two weeks (https://sites.ionio.gr/ css/2020/en/).

Department of Foreign Languages, Translation, and Interpreting, Corfu: GEOLAB and the British Buckingham University Centre for Security and Intelligence Studies (BUCSIS) jointly organise the International Summer School in Mediterranean Security and Culture in Corfu (https://geolabinstitute.org)

The International Summer Academy for Intercultural Communications aims to raise intercultural awareness and understanding and cultivate intercultural communication skills. (https://dflti.ionio.gr/en/).

Department of Informatics, Corfu:

The summer schools organised by the Department include, among others, summer schools in Environmental Informatics, Educational Technologies, Digital Technologies, Innovation in Tourism Entrepreneurship, Robotics and Programming, Information Communication Security, Neuroscience, and Mathematics Education. Furthermore, the Department organises and actively participates in various groups and events related to professional careers, arts, computer science, and entertainment, such as TEDxIonianUniversity, Mindspace at Corfu, Ionian CTF, and Ionian IEEE Student Branch (https:// di.ionio.gr/en/).

Summer Music Academy

Department of Environment, Zakynthos:

The Department has organised several summer schools over the years:

• Power Python Summer School, a summer school in the form of programming laboratory courses for advanced subjects and well-resourced language libraries, emphasises data analysis and processing. It is organised in collaboration with the University of

Patras and Aristotle University of Thessaloniki.

• Summer School in Information and Communication Technologies in the Promotion and Management of Natural and Cultural Resources for Tourism Development.

• Summer School in Sustainable Tourism in Island Protected Areas - Design & Management.

• Summer School Dynamics and Management of the Mediterranean Marine Environment, in collaboration with the Universities of Aegean and Piraeus, the Marine Park of Zakynthos, and tutors’ participation from the Hellenic National Meteorological Service and the Universities of Algarve, Cardiff, and Lille.

Department of Music Studies, Corfu: The Department organises numerous summer programs, research seminars, and cultural events, often in collaboration with local or international organisations, such as the Summer Ionian Academy, the Piano Festival, and the Cello Mediterranean Festival (https:// music.ionio.gr/en/)

Audiovisual Arts Festival

Department of Audio and Visual Arts Ionian University

For over a decade, since 2006, the Audiovisual Arts Festival (AVfest) has been held by the Department of Audio & Visual Arts, in collaboration with the Lab for Electroacoustic Music Research and Applications of the Department of Music Studies of the Ionian University, in Corfu, Greece. Each year, during May and June, the Audiovisual Arts Festival features a series of artistic and

scientific activities, presenting the results of the creative, educational and research work developed by its organising institution in contemporary sonic and visual arts fields. The Festival’s influence has gradually expanded, aiming to provide an ideal meeting point for artists and researchers through media art events, workshops and academic conferences.

Corfu is part of the Region of the Ionian Islands, known as the seven islands that extend in a parallel line along the coasts of the mainland Greece.

In spite of all their differences, these islands form a different entity. With common history, conscience, civilization and natural riches, the Ionian Islands are the ambassador of the oriental world and at the same time the entrance to the magic garden of ancient Greek civilization.

All shades of blue and green are the colours of the Ionian Islands. The visitor will be astonished by the fresh and evergreen landscapes. The beautiful landscapes the architectural style and the civilization that one can admire in towns and villages create a unique and distinguished context for your holidays. A popular destination from the Roman times, the Ionian Sea offers today, infinite alternatives. The quiet seas and harbours, the lush vegetation and the elements of civilization make these islands attractive for Greeks and foreigners.

Access to the Ionian Islands is easy. More than a 100 direct flights a day from all over Europe arrive at all the main islands airports (Corfu - Lefkas - Cephallonia - Zakynthos). You can find information and relative material if you visit any tourism exhibition in which the Region of Ionian Islands participates or through Internet from its official site.

Film Industry and the Ionian Islands

The Ionian Islands exhibit all the exceptional features, such as unique locations, modern infrastructure, remarkable cultural asset.

These enable them to become a pole of attraction for the production of films throughout the year and emerge as an important filming destination, besides already being a dynamic and well known tourism and culture destination.

The Film Office in the Ionian Islands Region The Region of Ionian Islands is establishing its own Film Office based in Kerkyra (Corfu) with reference to all the Ionian Islands, Kerkyra, Kefallonia, Lefkada and Zakynthos (Zante).

The Film Office of the Ionian Islands will provide support to national and international film productions which will take place on the Ionian Islands and will act as the first reference and contact point for any audiovisual productions.

The Film Office is collaborating with the Ionian University, Department of Audio & Visual Arts.

Main services of the Film Office Film Industry and the Ionian Islands

Film industry is a dynamic sector of the global economy which Greece and more specifically the Region of Ionian Islands aspires to develop. Film tourism is an alternative form of tourism, falling into the category of cultural tourism, which is one of the fastest growing sectors of tourism industry. The Ionian Islands exhibit all the exceptional features, such as unique locations, modern infrastructure, remarkable cultural asset.

The Film Office acts as a mediator between the Region of the Ionian Islands and the domestic and international film industry, providing a wide range of services in order to attract and facilitate filmmakers as well as boosting the Ionian Islands’ international appeal.

These are: reliable and effective information regarding the national and regional policy towards filming and audiovisual productions, promoting and highlighting the Region’s competitive advantages in touristic, cultural and entertainment locations and services, information on administrative processes, advice on finding sets, crew and facilities, by means of two main tools: the Production Guide and the Location Guide, facilitating the interaction between the interested production companies and the national and local stakeholders of the Ionian Islands Region,

help in procedures requiring decisions and permits from the public administration or government agencies.

Yvette Manessis Corporon

An internationally acclaimed author walks in the footsteps of Odysseus

The Greek-American author Yvette Manessis Corporon is an Internationally Best-Selling author and Emmy Award winning producer. She is the author of When the Cypress Whispers (Harper, 2014) and Something Beautiful Happened (Howard, 2017) and Where The Wandering Ends (coming 2022, Harper Muse). To date, Yvette’s books have been translated into 16 languages. She lives in Brooklyn, NY with her husband, two children, and the sweetest little white lab you’ve ever seen.

Yvette is three-time Emmy Award winning journalist who has traveled the world covering the biggest stories in news and entertainment. She is currently a Senior Producer with EXTRA. Yvette is also a recipient of the Silurian Award for Excellence in Journalism and the New York City Comptroller and City Council’s Award for Greek Heritage and Culture. A native New Yorker and daughter of Greek immigrants, Yvette studied Journalism

and Classical Civilizations at NYU. She loves combining both of her passions and crafting stories from little known moments in history and mythology.

We met Yvette in Corfu where she came to read excerpts from her books invited by the Corfu Food & Wine Festival. A very nice, enthusiastic person, passionate about stories and discovering of hidden secrets.

“I am so excited to be here for the Corfu International Food and Wine Festival. It’s such an honor for me to be here, home to Kerkyra, invited here to speak, to take part in the festival is just such an honor for me and I’m thrilled that I could make it and I’m thrilled to be invited. It’s also so meaningful to me because all of my books are inspired by Corfu and its rich history.

I’ve written three books so far inspired by Kerkyra’s history and nothing makes me happier than to dig in and discover things. Beautiful moments, interesting moments,

important moments in Corfu’s history that I can share with my readers around the world. And nothing makes me prouder also is when someone reads my book and then writes to me and says: “I was so moved by your story, I was so inspired by the story and I fell in love with Corfu in your books that I had to visit Corfu to see what it was like for myself”. So when I hear people come to Kerkyra to experience it for themselves after reading one of my books, it’s just such a joy and it’s such an honor. And for me, I studied classical civilizations at New York University and I’ve always loved Greek mythology, I’ve always loved the myths and the legends of the ancients.

And of course, for me, Odysseus and his journey are one of the most significant and important ones. In my current book, “Where the Wandering Ends”, I was incredibly inspired by Odysseus and his journey.

And the fact that Odysseus finds his true self here in Corfu, and here is when he’s inspired to finish his journey home to Ithaca.

And that’s something that really struck a chord in me and means a lot to me because that’s how I feel each time I come home. I feel like my journey ends here and that you really kind of find who you are here. I’ve also been so inspired by C. P. Cavafy’s Ithaka poem and when I was writing “Where the Wandering Ends”, obviously the wandering ends here in Corfu because everybody’s home here. But I was so inspired by the Cavafy’s poem that I worked that into the book. In Katerina and Marco, who are my two main characters, learn the poem as children and then later when they go through the difficulties of their lives and surviving the Greek civil war, ultimately they both end up back here in Corfu and they remember the poem and they realized just how difficult their journey was. But it doesn’t matter because they made it home to Kerkyra. And that was something that was so important to me that I wanted to show in the book.

In the framework of the Corfu Food & Wine Festival, Yvette and the Mayor of Central Corfu and Diapontian Islands Meropi Ydraiou had the opportunity to discuss the possibilities of highlighting Corfu’s impact in the USA. In this photo, one realizes they are the right persons for this job.

And I feel that I’m definitely reflected myself in that story and that I come home to Corfu each time I come home here and again now that readers around the world are starting to read where the wandering ends. When I hear people say: “I feel the same way and I’m inspired to follow this journey and to go home”, I feel like I’m home in Corfu as well. It’s just the greatest feeling in the world. And I hope everyone around the world reads my books and is inspired to come join us here in Kerkyra”.

“I was incredibly inspired by Odysseus and his journey. Especially the fact that Odysseus finds his true self here in Corfu and here he is inspired to end his journey home to Ithaca”.

May 2023

A Journey to the Flavours, Colours and Music of Corfu and Ionian Islands

Corfu Food & Wine Festival

A Journey to the Flavours, Colours and Music of Corfu and Ionian Islands * * plus the civilizations who crossed here

Corfu is the crossroads of the Mediterranean – the port where the cultures of East and West meet.

The mirror that reflects the history of Europe.

The Corfu Food & Wine Festival is inspired by the theme of exploration, by the discovery of what Europe has to offer, by the tracing of historical routes that crisscross the continent – passing through our island.

From the traces of seafood delicacies they ate in the northern Corfiot settlement of Sidari 4,000 years ago, to the table set for Odysseus to taste comfort food, sweet wine, to rejoice in songs, to remember and realize who he really is.

From the roads of merchants who arrived at the port of Corfu to go to Venice and those who left Venice, stopped in Corfu and continued their long journey to Constantinople.

From the need to preserve food, to our own version of the Italian cucina povera. And of course, from the Venetians, the French and the British – with their historical connections to the island – to the union with Greece, and to the Ionian Islands and

especially Corfu – which have all recorded incredible family recipes. These are the narratives of our history and our culture, lives told through mixtures of spices.

“We look forward to coming to Corfu next year.” This was a phrase heard during the the second Corfu Food & Wine Festival many times by chefs, journalists, visitors. And it was a phrase that simultaneously expressed a wish, pleasure and hope. It summed up the feelings of those who attended a five-day presentation of Corfu’s gastronomic, musical and everyday culture.

Soleil is a blogger who came from Seattle and as soon as she got to know the music culture of Corfu, she devised a thought experiment: “close your eyes and think of an area in Seattle with 100,000 inhabitants. Search and locate it. You found it? Nice! In this area now add 20 philharmonic bands and 45 choirs! Can you imagine that? A place like that doesn’t exist anywhere. This is Corfu”. A simple test in which everyone perceives the uniqueness of the place. This uniqueness is expressed every year during the Festival with different

UK participated in Corfu Food & Wine Festival under the “Food is Great” campaign highlighting the British tradition in food.

The traditional bakery “Starenio” created an exceptional version of shepherd’s pie, enriched with Mediterranean ingredients wrapped in corfiot pastry.

The Head Cook of British Embassy in Athens Jane Mortensen and chef of Corfu Palace Hotel Thomas Lampouras, prepared the most delightful brunch that could taste. Brunch the foremost British custom met the Corfiot tradition of “elevenses” in the spring garden of the 5 star hotel.

The “fish &chips” experience which is associated with corfiot tradition, presented at “Pane e Psaraki” by Chef Mortensen.

presentations: each time we follow different routes through the history of the island and highlight both the influences we have received and those we have transmitted to the peoples with whom we once coexisted.

In 2018 the Festival walked the roads that connect us with Venice, Russia and England.

In 2019 we walked the roads of discovery, tasted the flavours of the ancient Phaeacians (Corfiots) as described by Homer and enjoyed by Odysseus. We followed the route that connects us to Messina, we established relationships with chambers and cooking schools. We met with our “brothers” from Calabria where the brother of King Alcinous of the Phaeacians, Croton, founded the city of Crotone. We invited chefs from Israel who reminded us of our Jewish connections. We opened the Synagogue and read Solomon’s poetry. France honoured us by bringing a chef who highlighted the vitality of the relations between the two peoples as well as a school of cooks who were trained in Corfu for three weeks.

In 2020, like the rest of the world, we did not do anything. But the lockdown taught us that situations change our planet. We realized that to implement a festival today, you have to design it so that it can be

changed (without being destroyed) easily and functionally. The pandemic has shown us a new world, more or less the world of 5G, with new social and professional behaviours, with teleconferencing, remote users, virtual and augmented reality.

So the Festival tested in 2021 an innovative hybrid application. We implemented actions in Corfu with live webcasts and actions in other cities of the world, a world that could not travel and participate due to the coronavirus.

This experience gave us strength to continue and improve this practice.

In 2021 we dedicated the Festival to the 200th anniversary of the Greek Revolution and of course to Ioannis Kapodistrias, the Corfu politician who was the first of all to envision a united democratic Europe. At the same time, we organized Corfu cuisine events in Brussels and Boston in collaboration with the Greek students of MIT.

In 2022 on the occasion of the war in Ukraine, we remembered and honored people, ideas and cultures who found refuge in Corfu when they were in need and followed routes from Armenia to Spain with stops in Byzantium, Italy, Serbia, in Crete, Epirus and Asia Minor.

In 2023 we will continue these routes exploring the flavours of our ancestors.

The Corfu Food & Wine Festival will be held in May 2023 and will be based on the stories that, from Homer until today, grandmothers pass on to daughters and grandchildren.

The program will be announced on Saturday, December 3, when we will open the barrels with the fresh wine. If you can come to Corfu then, it will be our great pleasure to host you. Otherwise, may it be in May.

The Festival awarded the “Gastronomic Traveler of the Year”award to the famous chef Hector Botrini.

The acclaimed Venetian chef Giuseppe Galardi together with Marina Beska explored the relationships and affinities of Venetian and Corfu cuisine at Marina’s Tavern.

Culinary tours of two-centuryold Corfu recipes in Brussels, in the warm space of Philema restaurant, curated by top chef Manos Makrygiannakis.

Corfu Callendar 2023

February2

First Carnival Sunday

February 16

Tsiknopemptee

February 19

Second Carnival Sunday Apokria

February 26

Third Carnival Sunday Tyrofagos

February 27

Clean Monday

March 25

Greek Independence Day Annunciation of the Virgin Mary

April 8

Kapodistrias Filarmonic Band Concert at St. George church Old Fortress

April 9

Palm Sunday Procession of St Spyridon in towvn at 11:00am

April 10

Holy Monday

April 13

Holy Thursday starts the old custom of the Mastela at N Theotoki str, Corfu town A barrel is filled with water and decorated with myrtles and coloured ribbons Passers by drop in coins and each makes a wish

April 14

Good Friday is the day of the Epitaphios, the funeral of Christ. All over the island every church brings out its own funeral bier and parades it around the parish

April 15

Holy Saturday customs: at 6 a m the custom of 'the earthquake' is carried out at the Church of the Blessed Virgin of Strangers At 9 a m the procession of Saint Spiridon At 11 a.m. the First Resurrection and the 'Pot Throwing' custom

April 16

Orthodox Easter Sunday At 7 a m churches in town which possess an icon of the Resurrection parade it

May 6

Makrades Panegyri/Festival

May 8

Kanoni and Kassiopi Festival of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary

May 10

Paleokastritsa Panegyri/Festival

May 12

Krini Panegyri/Festival

May 20

Feast Alikes Potamos

May 21

The Unification of the Ionian Islands

June 05

Orthodox Holy Spirit Μοnday. Feasts in Kanalia, Argirades, Stavros, Castellani Messis Kontokali, Antipernoi, Othoni, Afionas

June 9

Alikes, Petalia, Zigo, Potamos

June 12

Pelekas St Onofrio’s Day

June 13

Arillas The Ascension festival Analipsi, Kato Korakiana Panegyri/ Festival

June 24

Agios Ioannis festival in Mantouki, Fire jumping at Triklino, Agios Ioannis, Kynopiastes

June 29

Peter and Paul, the Feast Kompitsi,Strogyli, Vitalades and Gaios Paxos

July 2

Procession and Festival of Madonna of Vlacherena at Kanoni, Garitsa, Aharavi, Kamara, Paxos

July7

Peroulades Panegyri/Festival

July 8

Celebrations of St Prokopios at Kavos and Agios Prokopios

July 11 12

Karousades Panegyri/Festival

July 13

San Rocco Square Festival in honour of St Spyridonas

July 15 17

Santa Marina, a big festival in Analipsi

July17

St Marina festival at Benitses, Spartera, Avliotes

July 20

Magoulades Festival of Elia the prophet

July 25 26

Lafki Village. Main day 26th

July 26

Santa Paraskevi at Porta Remounda (Corfu Town), Vraganiotika village, Benitses

July 27

Saint Panteleimon the Panegyri is held in the church grounds in the evening

July 28

Roda, Loutses, San Stefanos NE, Panegyri/Festival

August 2

Kassiopi Folklore Festival in the

harbour

August 3 Benitses Sardine festival

August 3 4

Arillas Antamoma Festival, Dancing groups from other parts of Greece

August 1 6 Pilgrimage to the Monastery of Pantokrator.

August 6

The feast for the Tranfiguration of the Christ Feasts in Pontikonissi, Perivoli, Strinila, Evropuli, Paleochori, Ag Deka, Agios Mattheos and Campiello.

August 8 9 Nymfes Festival/Panegyri

August 10

Ipsos Sardine festival

August 11

St. Spyridon’s Day The Procession and festivals to commemorate the intervention of St Spyridon during the Turkish invasion in 1716 when a terrible storm broke out as the invading force tried to besiege Corfu, causing their retreat. Corfu Town Silver gilt case containing the body of St Spyridon is exposed for public worship for 3 days and nights. Thousands pay homage to kiss his slippered feet St Spyridon procession with bands. Feast at Melikia.

Varkarola takes place on the closest Sunday to the 11th and involves a series of boat parades along the coast, while bands play traditional music and there’s local dancing.

August 13

Traditional Karlaka (frog) Festival in Skripero

August 15

Dormition of the Holy Virgin Many big festivals with church processions in Kassiopi, Monastery in Platyteras. Canoni and Peroulades

August 16

Kato Garouna Gala weekend

August 17

Kavadades Panegyri/Festival

August 22

Agrafi Panegyri/Festival

August 23

Festivals of the Virgin Odigitrias at Gastouri, Pelekas, Ag. Deka, Viros,

Poulades, Pentati

August 24 Loustri/Gimari Pie Festival August 31 Agni Varkarola

September 1 Kalami Varkarola

September 7 Arillas Wine festival, food and dancing

September 8

Holy Virgin Feasts at Afra, Sinarades, Marathia, Agios Markos, Potami in Lefkimmi

September 14 Sidari Feast of the Holy Cross in the Monastery of St Ioannis and the feast of sardines in Benitses

September 16 Kavadades Wine Festival with spit roast pork and lamb

September 21 Kassiopi/Moraitika Wine festival

September 24 Vatos Myrtidiotissa festival

September 26 Karousades, Porta Remounta Festival of St John/James the theologian

October 28

The Ochi day Celebrated by processions throughout Corfu. Messonghi Panegyri/Festival

November 6 Corfu Town St Spyridon procession

December 6 Feast at Kampielo and Kanalia

December 12 St Spyridon’s Day Local Holiday with a day long festival in Corfu Town.

December 24

Carol singing, hymns and celebrations leading up to Christmas Day Evening event at Town hall Square

December 25 Christmas Day

December 26 Synaxis of the Mother of God

Corfu Carnival

With its roots in Ancient Greece and an atmosphere redolent of Venice, the Corfu Carnival is arrayed in an old and illustrious wardrobe of clothes from Corfiot history and culture, from Barbarossa and Tartufo to Don Bazilio and Katona, as well as from contemporary citizens who have lent prestige to the island. Personalities and events from current affairs as well as the past are satirised with unrestrained humour, and the masked participants show no mercy towards their victims. If your first impression of the island at this time is unexpected and somewhat unusual, whether in tavernas, bars, alleyways or villages, you will soon realise that it is due to the lunacy of the season and the extravagance of the Ionian celebrations. Carnival developed from the ancient Greek festivals, from rites in honour of Dionysos, God of Wine, which took place at the start of Spring in order to procure a good harvest and successful breeding among the animal stock. With the passage of time, the Carnival celebrations were broadened and here in Corfu were enhanced by Venetian influences, such as the traditional figures disguised as “doctors” or “notaries”, the use of masks and soot to blacken the face. The inspiration, the work and in general all the preparations for the floats which each team displays begin a year in advance at gatherings in tavernas and private houses. Here the craziest ideas are put forward, and the one that is chosen is kept completely

secret until the moment of its first appearance on the streets of the town. Celebrations begin on the first Sunday of Carnival, Asotos Sunday (Septuagesima), with a trial run of the Carnival procession through the town to check the floats, to start off the fun and to get everyone into the right mood.

A genuinely unique hospitality experience

The Voulgaris Hospitality Group cordially invites visitors to savor the seclusion and tranquility of Corfiot nature, amidst the stun ning surrounding scenery and the sounds of the sea. Visiting one of our hotels is a genu inely unique experience since they provide a wide range of lodging alternatives, first-rate amenities, recreational and wellness facilities, excellent food selections, innovative services, and exciting events.

Our goal at Voulgaris Hospitality Group is to give our customers a sincere Corfiot culinary experience that is authentic in terms of the tastes and excellent quality throughout (food, services, atmosphere). Our hotels provide guests with a fine dining experience that is not indulgent but instead provides them a sense of the island of Corfu's modern cuisine, tradition, and culture in balance with the envi ronment

Kontokali Bay Resort & Spa

One of Corfu's most well-known resorts with a 50-year history of success. Luxury and excel lence are intertwined with this five-star resort, which continues to rule its category. This picturesque beachfront Corfu resort combines

the warmth and brightness of Corfiot hospital ity with the principles of authenticity, integrity, and quality that define it.

Aeolos Beach Resort

Aeolos Beach Resort is amphitheatrically located on Corfu's south-eastern coast, situat ed on the hills of Perama, and is flanked by beautiful gardens and the unending Ionian Sea. The clean coastline and magnificent views of the sea stimulate the senses while nature's beauty and immensity abound.

Aeolos Beach Resort is a popular all-inclusive resort close to Corfu town that has undergone several imaginative restorations and improve ments that have given each place a genuine touch that draws visitors year after year.

The Olivar Suites

A particular destination to experience the best of Corfiot hospitality and enduring feelings of wellbeing, The Olivar Suites is a distinctive 5* all-suite hotel that artfully blends traditional and modern aspects. The 120 suites are con structed in a distinctive design to provide seclusion and a cool refuge of relaxation for a genuine holiday experience under the olive trees.

Kontokali Bay Resort & Spa Aeolos Beach Resort

41 The Olivar Suites Corfu, Greece | +30 26610 90149 info@vhg.gr | www.vhg.gr

Corfu Easter

The celebration of Easter in Corfu is a unique experience, completely different from anywhere else in Greece and particularly impressive for first-time visitors to the island. It is a huge festival, in which various components come together harmoniously, the Orthodox Christian faith, pagan traditions, the powerful presence of Saint Spiridon, the Roman Catholic community, the Venetian influence, genuine Corfiot humour, the music of the philharmonic bands and of course the spring atmosphere.

Holy Week throughout Greece is characterised by its church services, by fasting, and by the anticipation of the Resurrection. We recommend that during Holy Week you leave the town and venture out to the villages. Wander in the countryside, that is moving into spring and the season of fertility and renewal, and enjoy its perfumes. After the dullness of winter, with its rains and cold weather, the sunlight underscores the fresh colours of nature. The white, yellow, mauve and green of the wild flowers, the blue of the sky and the sea, form a backdrop to the grey stone walls of the monasteries with their westernized wallfrescoes.

Good Friday is the day of the Epitaphios, the funeral of Christ. All over the island, as all over Greece, every church brings out its own funeral bier and parades it around the parish. In Corfu however, the attendant philharmonic orchestras and choirs, the presence of thousands of Corfiots as well as foreign visitors, give another dimension to the gravity of the occasion.

On Holy Saturday at 11 a.m. the First Resurrection and the “Pot Throwing” custom take place, and the local people throw pots out of their windows, smashing them onto the streets below. All over Greece the ceremony takes place on a platform outside the church. In Corfu Town, the service is held in the Upper Esplanade Square,

starting at the Church of Agia Paraskevi, with the participation of the Bishop, the

philharmonic orchestras, and thousands of people. The Resurrection is seen in with a roll of drums and an impressive firework display, and when this ends the bands traverse the streets of the town at a great pace playing cheerful music, with people running behind them singing. The party has only just begun, and will last until dawn.

Summertime

A stroll through the alleyways of the old town late at night - that is summertime. The man who roasts corn-on-the-cob over a brazier in the Upper Square - he is summertime. Freshly sliced, ice-cold watermelon - that’s summertime. A midafternoon siesta in a little, vine-shaded, whitewashed courtyard - that is summertime. And the people, these happy and kindly people who face daily life with humour and stay out late at night – they too are a part of summertime. Summertime in Corfu. The best time to visit the island and enjoy life to the full. Because summertime in Corfu is a distillation of the Mediterranean temperament, the warm hospitality, the honest dealings, the human contact. And that is the basic reason why over a million visitors a year end their holidays here happier people. Corfu never lets you down. The entire province of Corfu (including its islands) is encircled by approximately 600 kms of shoreline. Hundreds of beaches with

sand or pebbles are to be found here, ideal for a lazy, carefree swim in sparklingly clean water. There are beaches which even in high season remain deserted and untouched. There are caves and rocks perfect for diving and underwater exploration, and plenty of small harbours where you can tie up a boat. In the interior of the island you will come across luxuriant vegetation, picturesque villages, old family mansions, stone-built houses with pristine courtyards, simple folk. You will also find areas of well-developed tourism, with luxury hotels, restaurants, tavernas and bars for every occasion. Anyone exploring on foot will wander freely and may even get lost in a network of roads, tracks and footpaths which lead to both the past and the future of Corfiot life. You will have every opportunity to take part in traditional village festivals, you will meet and talk with the kindly local people, you will share for a while a way of life that springs from the philosophy and culture of Ancient Greece.

Corfu Destination Management Services

luxuriant serenity & country retreat

info@mastrogiannisretreat.co m www.mastro giannisretreat.com

Pure Magic

Benitses: is an old fishing village eight kilometres north of Moraïtika. Between these two villages, there are two fine beaches, Agios Ioannis Peristeron and Tsaki.

Messonghi: 22 kilometres from town, is a little village on the east coast of Corfu. The main road towards Lefkimmi passes through here, and in the direction of Perama, northwards, this road runs along the coast, with sandy and sometimes rocky shores. At every point you will find beaches with warm water, good for swimming, and plenty of tourist services. As far back as Roman times, and still today, this coastline was the first choice of the summer holidaymaker. Messonghi Beach itself is split by the Messonghi River, which flows into the sea at this point.

Lake Korission: actually a lagoon, is long and narrow and extends over an area of 1500 acres, in which the local communities have applied systematic fish farming. With the Ionian Sea washing onto Halikounas Beach across a spit of land, it is a magic spot, where sea and sand harmonise, and the view is rounded off with beautiful sunsets. If you follow the track northward from the lake, you will find yourself on a low cliff above the sea, where there are benches so you can sit with a view of the open water.

Agios Georgios (Argyrades): just before the village, a road to the right runs down to the beach of Agios Georgios, which as we saw can be reached from the forest of Lake Korission. Essentially Halikounas and Agios Georgios are one beach 10 kilometres in length, with sand dunes, fine sand and shallow water.

Vitalades: is reached by way of a right turn off the main road just after Perivoli, following the sign. Here you can choose from two different beaches. At Gardeno, where the river of that name flows into the sea, there are tavernas and a broad seashore, while at Megalo Horo you will find complete solitude.

Kavos: is a modern tourist resort with tavernas and restaurants, clubs and bars, a magnet for young people from all over the world, especially from Britain. It’s a place which offers frenetic activity all day long.

Agios Gordis: is a very extensive beach on the west coast, and can be considered the communal property of Sinarades and Kato Garouna. An impressive feature of Agios Gordis are the rocks at its northern end, which have been sculpted by the waves into a work of art.

Kontoyialos: an exceptional beach, a smaller version of Glyfada, with tavernas on the shoreline and some rooms for rent. It can be reached by way of three roads.

Glyfada: an extensive and popular beach with bars open round the clock, hotels, restaurants and crowds of people.

Ermones: a bay on Corfu’s western coast, with sheer cliffs and forested hills. Guests at the large hotel complex which is built on the hillside can enjoy the wonderful beach where the cold, fresh water of a river flows into the sea. But there’s plenty of room for visitors, so there are fish tavernas, rooms for rent.

Paleokastritsa: is located about 25 kilometres from town, linked to it by the widest and best laid out road on the island. It consists of two large peninsulas and five coves, and the harmony of lush vegetation, precipitous cliffs and sandy shores has established it as top class resort.

Agios Georgios (Pagi): beach sweeps around the bay of the same name, and has very cold water. The evening Maestros makes it a favourite venue for fans of wind-surfing.

Sidari: is a top tourist resort which is renowned all over the world. The soft rock of the coastline, which has been chiseled into many forms, gives the region a special charm.

Astrakeri: is a bay with a quiet beach and a few little tavernas.

Roda: is a village on the shoreline, located at the end of the seven kilometre long beach of Acharavi and Almiros.

Acharavi: Located between Roda and Almiros, today it is the capital of the Municipality of North Corfu, and has developed as a large tourist centre with numerous hotels, restaurants and bars.

Agios Spiridon: the northern, treeless flanks of Pantokrator drop to shores which are in general rocky, except for where they reach the peninsula of Agios Spiridon, where the church of the Saint is located as well as the beach of the same name. Continuing,

the road bridges the outlet of the Antinioti Lagoon and heads for Yialiskari Beach and for the Monastery of Agia Ekaterini (Saint Katherine).

Agios Stefanos and Kerasia: are pretty locations lying at the closest point to Albania, with tavernas and restaurants. You reach them by way of a road which goes right at Sinies (Elaiourgia).

Barbati: it has a wide pebble beach which gets busy, but the nearby small Kaminaki Beach offers a quieter alternative.

Dafnila, Dassia, Ipsos and Pyrgi are resorts with olive groves growing to the sea, lovely beaches and a view towards the mainland of Epirus, with the addition of busy tourist traffic, and associated bars, restaurants and night clubs.

Wintertime

Winter in Corfu has a completely different face but is particularly attractive. Most tourist businesses have closed. A few small hotels remain open and good tavernas for eating out. But most

of all you will enjoy walking, going round the villages, smelling the wood burning in the fireplaces, talking to the locals and drinking their wine. Life is unique here, without stress, no mass tourism, morning

walks, streams and rivers, waterfalls, and the lovely little lakes in the Ropa Valley that gather so much wild life. You can play golf, go horseriding, even swim in the quiet sea, there are many winter bathers particularly during the Halcyon days of January. Unlike

the heavy winters of central Europe and the winters of the mainland, Ipirus, Corfu’s winters are mild.

Life in the village

Peroulades: is a traditional village with a rich architectural inheritance from Venetian times.

Pagi: is a pretty village which managed to avoid being raided by pirates and barbarians, and now many of its attractive old houses have been restored to accommodate tourists.

Lakones: is a most picturesque village with narrow streets. Close by is the famed Bella Vista, which they say has the best view in the Mediterranean.

Liapades: a beautifully built village of 900 inhabitants, renowned for its wine produced from the kakotrygis variety.

Argirades: is reached 33 kilometres from Corfu Town and is a notable village with a population of 2000. The alleyways, the arcades and the architecture of the houses are very reminiscent of the Venetian era.

Potamos: 4 kilometres from town, is a traditional village with arcades (kamares), which appear to stretch the whole length of the main street. The river which crosses the plain near the villlage and the surrounding lush vegetation are evidence that, in the

years when agriculture was king, Potamos was an especially prosperous village.

Agios Markos: is a village which must be visited. It is on the threshold of desertion due to a landslide, and its old houses are overgrown with the passage of years.

Ano Korakiana: it has a population of 1400 and many traditional-style buildings. It boasts a Philharmonic Orchestra, founded in 1958, under-lining musical traditions which began in 1623 with the foundation of the Mantolinatas of the Pope. Out of its 37 churches, the ones dedicated to Saint Nicholas, the Archangel Michael and Saint Athanasios are of great interest to Byzantine scholars. The local school contains a small folklore collection.

Pelekas: 12 kilometres from town and built near the summit of a beautiful hill at a height of 270 metres, is famed for its panoramic view and its sunset. Here is the “Kaiser’s Throne”, where Kaiser Wilhelm II used to come and muse.

Sinarades: is a large, well-preserved village with buildings from the Byzantine and Venetian eras.

Agios Mattheos: Located at the south west corner of the Mesis region, Agios Mattheos is an important village with a population of 1500, built in the foothills of the mountain of the same name. It is a village with great perso-nality, fine traditional cafés alongside the main street and a philharmonic orchestra founded in 1965.

Kinopiastes: has narrow streets and a spring with top quality water. While you’re filling your bottles the sounds of the rehearsing philharmonic orchestra which is housed nearby will lift your heart.

Gastouri: has 600 residents and a philharmonic orchestra dating from 1898, and rpeserves Corfiot traditions both in the architecture and in the daily life of the people. You can also buy bread baked in a wood-fired oven from the bakery you’ll find on a narrow lane leading off the main street.

Agii Deka: is a small village which scrambles up the slopes of the mountain of the same name. The mountain is not particluarly high (576 metres), but the view from the summit, which can be reached on

foot, is one of the best on the island.

Stavros: is an unspoilt village with a splendid view, very friendly people and a wonderful fiesta on August 15th which should not be missed. On the eve of the festival there is a procession, and participants are offered plates of macaroni.

Nimfes: a large village with a population of 800, stands 200 metres above sea level. Its location amongst running water and lush vegetation makes it a fitting spot for legends and strange beliefs. They say the name comes from the Nymphs who used to bathe in nearby waterfalls.

Old Perithia: a Venetian village with roots in ancient times, with stone-built mansions and many churches, is the most impressive example of the old lifestyle. Today, it is a “living museum”.

Strinilas: a mountain village which differs from the rest of Corfu, both in architecture and in climate, is located on the western slopes of the Oros.

Active Tourism

Sailing

The geographic position of the island, its beauty, the many fine anchorages in the surrounding area, the mild climate and the international airport, all constitute positive factors in the promotion of sailing tourism. In a place famous since ancient times for the nautical skills of its inhabitants, you will today find some of the biggest and most beautiful yacht marinas in the Mediterranean, attracting hundreds of boats from all over the world. There are numerous yacht charter agencies on the island. Bookings are best made early, but it is always possible to find an available yacht even at the last minute. The possession of a skipper’s licence is essential. Charter rates vary according to the season, the type of boat and its size, but as an example we can quote the amount of 50-70 euro per person per day. If you take into account the reduction in costs of food and transportation, then it is clear how reasonable this kind of holiday can be.

Scuba Diving

Corfu is at the forefront of all underwater activities. The island’s coastline and bays, its headlands and endless reefs, constitute a paradise in miniature for diving fans of all ages. From June onwards the sea is warm enough for comfortable diving, and whether the aim is to harpoon a fishy nibble to share with friends later, or underwater photography, or just an undersea wander with mask and breathing gear, Corfu’s fantastic underwater landscape will not disappoint you. If you hold a diver’s certificate you must know that Corfu is one of the few places in Greece where scuba diving is permitted without restriction. If you have no previous experience of this sport, do not worry. You do not need to be an athlete, nor do you need to be able to hold your breath for five minutes.

You only need to be in good health and to be able to swim. If you wish to learn, just contact one of the ten diving centers and schools, which are scattered all round the island, and arrange an introductory dive.

All the centers and schools provide experienced teachers and full equipment.

Hiking

Stroll along cobbled footpaths, some dating from Byzantine times, and across hillsides scented with wild flowers. Meander along picturesque coastlines, beside water of dazzling clarity. Discover a landscape of olive and cypress groves, plains of grass with vineyards and orchards. Visit traditional villages where time stands still. Step into a walker’s paradise, where at every turn a new aspect, a new scene, is revealed.

Corfu has, in comparison to its size, an enormous variety of scenery: bare limestone mountains on the Pantokrator Massif; forest-covered hillsides in the centre of the island; century-old olive groves; impressive coast-lines; inland wetlands; river valleys and gorges. Thus even within a single day’s hike many different landscapes will be encountered.

Corfu also has the advantage of possessing many old cobbled footpaths which link the traditional villages, and the interior of the island remains almost completely undiscovered.

Corfu Trail

The Corfu Trail is a long-distance footpath of approximately 220 km, which runs the length of Corfu Island: from the white cliffs near Arkoudillas at Corfu’s southernmost tip to the wild coastline of Cape Agia Ekatirini at its northernmost point!

The trail meanders through all the island’s rural districts and avoids developed areas, takes in beauty spots, biotopes, beaches, picturesque villages, monuments, monasteries and diverse landscapes. The original paths have been cleared and waymarked with CT yellow signs, without disturbing the environment, and placed in strategic locations on the route. With the help of the accurate Corfu Trail map-and guide book you will easily be able to follow the trail! Since the most spectacular scenery and the biggest concentration of highlights are in the north of the island, walkers are advised to follow the route from south to north, though the Corfu Trail has been waymarked in both directions. The trail consists of 11 (including 2 minor) daily walks combining continuously the most beautiful seashores and landscapes. And the terrain varies, with rough footpaths, cobbled mule paths, dirt and gravel tracks and some minor roads and sandy and pebbly beaches. The best months to follow this unique trail are from February to June and from mid September to November.

Cycling

It’s not an original idea, but one which is often misunderstood. A Greek idiom says that when our existence becomes a trial that ‘we are turning life into a bicycle’. Nevertheless, there’s evidence that more than 6000 people each year come to Corfu just to cycle, while double that number rent bikes for a few days of their holiday. The majority come from Holland and they consider Corfu to be a paradise for this activity. Serious mountainbikers come from all over the world to try out the island’s paths. A bicycle is quicker than walking. With a bike you can get to places only accessible on foot; you can get close to the countryside and its people; you can feel the peace and quiet, and you can bathe alone on a deserted beach, even in the height of the season. And as you cycle, there’s always a breeze, even on the hottest day!

A bicycle is safer than car driving, and doesn’t make as much noise as a motorbike. Slow pedalling on shady roads and leisurely trips along riverbanks cannot be compared with any petrol-driven tour. Corfu has got an ideal road network.

The British Protectorate bequeathed an extensive road network, with tracks going everywhere to give access to cultivated land. Today the metalled roads, the dirt tracks and the footpaths validate the rule that in Corfu you can go wherever you want with any road.

Cycling leads you into a different Corfu. A bike tour around the island is like opening a Russian doll: you continuously discover a new side of Corfu. Little lakes, streams, deserted monasteries, untouched villages, rare flowers, picturesque cafenions; constant surprises.

Biking on Corfu is nice and easy, but care is also required.

Country roads are usually narrow and windy, due to the way they were traced out around the bordering olive trees. The olives fall on the road surface, leaving a sheen more slippery than motor oil. Great care must be taken of the potholes which waylay you on blind corners, of the coaches which take up nearly all the road, and of the heavy tourist traffic which during summer snarls up the circulation even more.

Golfing

The Corfu Golf Club’s beautiful course has been praised by many as one of the best kept in Europe. It was designed by the famous Swiss based architect, Donald Harradine and he has blended the natural resources of the lovely Ropa Valley with man made hazards to make the course a good test but a fair test.

It is equally enjoyable for the scratch player as it is for the long handicap one.

Te magnificent greens of Penncross Bent are considered to be the finest in the Mediterranean; the treelined fairways and the sandtraps combine with the several lakes and meandering streams, to make an attractive picture against a backcloth of high hills. A modern irrigation system keeps the course in perfect condition at all times.

From March to November and sometimes beyond, there is warm sunshine and blue skies in Corfu but even in high summer on the golf course there is almost always a cooling breeze blowing from the sea. Golf can also be played during the very mild winter in Corfu so any time is golf time.

There are three sets of tees thus providing enjoyment for all categories of players. The turf is very good so it is easy to walk on and every hole on the course provides infinite variety - and its own problems. Corfu is a great golf course and its fame is spreading rapidly as golfers come from all over the world to test their skills at golf and to enjoy the island.

Facilities

The attractive looking clubhouse built of local stone is not only impressive outside, it is comfortable and luxurious inside. There is a bar, a lounge and a bright, cheerful restaurant where appetizing meals are served at reasonable prices. The changing rooms are modern in every respect. The professional’s shop is well stocked with items of golf equipment and golf bags and golf clubs can be hired. The practice ground is particularly large and buckets of balls can be supplied to those wishing to indulge in serious practice. In front of the club-house there is a putting green. The professional staff are on hand at all times to give lessons and to make all visitors feel very welcome making sure they thoroughly enjoy their Corfu Golfing Holidays and all that the beautiful island has to offer.

The “Routes of Discovery” project is an integrated system for marking paths, routes and points of interest (POI) covering a large part of the region of Corfu. This is an innovative programme that for the first time in Greece will provide visitors with the opportunity to follow routes exploring the nature, history and culture of Corfu, in safety, as there will be an electronic system to monitor users as well as an immediate notification system in case of emergency (e.g. accident or fire).

Routes on footpaths and rural roads which the user will be able to follow by walking, running or cycling, are divided into the following categories:

Trail running, hiking, riding, climbing, pilgrimage routes, culinary routes, accessible routes, viewpoints, historical interest points, religious attractions, local producers, soundscapes.

Potential users of the proposed initiative fall into the following categories: tourists, nature lovers, climbers, hikers, cyclists, school students, the local population and the disabled. When following these routes users will be able to understand more about of the identity, cultural heritage and economic activity of the locality. At each point on the route that someone chooses to follow they can be informed through notifications about points of interest such as attractions, historical sites, local handicrafts, birds or animals that they may encounter, or plants such as oregano or other herbs that may be collected according to the season.

Primary research is being conducted to create the platform and the project is expected to be completed in March 2023. Stay tuned.

Follow the routes of discovery

Destination Corfu 2023