Discover the Allure of South Corfu: A Paradise for Every Traveler
If you’re on the hunt for a chill spot in Greece, let me introduce you to South Corfu. This place is like a secret treasure waiting to be explored. If you’re dreaming of stunning beaches, charming villages, and a laid-back vibe, this is the place to be.
Why South Corfu Rocks
- Breathtaking Beaches: Picture soft golden sand, crystal-clear waters, and maybe a beach bar or two. From the popular Agios Georgios to the quieter Issos, there’s a spot for every type of sun-seeker.
- Charming Villages: Take a stroll through the quaint streets of villages like Petriti or Moraitika. You’ll find friendly locals, cute little shops, and traditional tavernas serving up delicious Greek food.
- Nature Lovers’ Paradise: You’ll love the lush green hills and scenic trails. Don’t forget your camera. Those views are Instagram gold!
- Local Culture: Dive into the culture with traditional music festivals or by visiting historical sites.
Tips for Your Trip
- Rent a Car or a Scooter: It gives you access to hidden spots away from the tourist crowds.
- Try Local Dishes: Make sure to indulge in local delights like moussaka and fresh seafood at family-run taverns. Your taste buds will thank you!
- Sunset Views: Don’t miss out on catching an epic sunset. It’s pure magic!
South Corfu is calling your name! Happy travels!
Moraitika: the vibrant resort of south corfu
📏Distance from Villa Claire Corfu Town: 12 km
⏱️ Driving time: 20 minutes
Moraïtika is a charming little village on the east coast just a stone’s throw away from Messonghi. A scenic river separates them. The main road runs a few hundred meters from the beach. Shops, cosy restaurants, and all sorts of fun spots line the street, just waiting for you to check them out!
Wandering through Moraïtika, you’ll find quaint old houses and narrow streets filled with family-run tavernas. Most hotels sit snugly between the road and the sandy beach, giving you easy access to private sunbed areas.
Moraïtika boasts lovely sandy shores with shallow waters. Plus, there are beach bars where you can grab a drink or two. Plenty of options for water sports and boat trips are available.
While it sometimes goes head-to-head with nearby Benitses for attention, Moraïtika shines when it comes to nightlife. So whether you’re chilling on the beach or hitting up the local bars, Moraïtika has got you covered for an unforgettable time.
Messonghi Beach: A stunning Sandy paradise in South Corfu
📏 Distance from Villa Claire Corfu Town: 12 km
⏱️ Driving time: 23 minutes
Messonghi Beach is set on the southeast coast of Corfu. It has easy access whether you’re just popping in for the day or planning a longer stay.
The water here gradually gets deeper. You can kick back and relax with sun loungers and umbrellas available for your comfort. There’s a range of places to stay, from big hotels like the popular Messonghi Beach Hotel to cute little apartments that fit all sorts of budgets.
When it comes to food and drinks, you’re in luck! There are plenty of bars and restaurants along the beach where you can feast on fresh seafood or other local dishes.
Petriti: a small village in south corfu the largest fishing port on the island.
📏 Distance from Villa Claire Corfu Town: 20 km
⏱️ Driving time 37 minutes
Petriti is a picturesque fishing village that steals the show with its gorgeous views and chill vibe. It’s the biggest fishing port on the island, mixing old-school charm with a bit of modern flair.
Wander through the sun-soaked streets. You’ll come across all sorts of sights that capture what Petriti is all about. The local fishing scene is buzzing. Boats come in every day packed with fresh seafood. If you’re lucky enough, you’re in for a treat. Nothing beats enjoying a seafood meal that was just caught!
Stroll along the beachfront, and you’ll find cosy fish tavernas serving up mouthwatering dishes just waiting for you to dig into! And don’t worry if fish isn’t your thing. There are plenty of tasty options for everyone.
Just a short stroll away, you’ll find the Alikes, the salt flats. Check out how people have traditionally harvested salt here over the years! It’s all part of what makes Petriti such a special spot to visit!
Prasoudi Beach: A family-friendly haven
📏Distance from Villa Claire Corfu Town: 19 km
⏱️ Driving time 32 minutes
Prasoudi Beach is a fantastic spot for families. Picture this: thick, soft sand beneath your feet and warm waters inviting you in. The beach has a gentle slope into the sea and some cool rock formations that add to its beauty.
One of the coolest things about Prasoudi is the clay you can find along the shore. Lots of people come here for natural clay treatments that help with relaxation and rejuvenation. It’s like a mini spa day right on the beach!
Prasoudi Beach has all the amenities you need. You can rent sunbeds, and parasols for some shade, and there are changing rooms and rinse-off showers available too.
And after soaking up the sun all day, don’t miss out on the nearby tavern! Among others, they serve up delicious seafood made from fresh catches.
Agios Georgios South corfu: an ideal destination for peaceful beach holidays
📏Distance from Villa Claire Corfu Town: 22 km
⏱️ Driving time 33 minutes
Agios Georgios Argiradon is perfect for anyone looking to relax on the beach and enjoy nature. This resort has a lovely sandy beach with family-friendly shallow waters.
You’re gonna love the area with tons of shops, restaurants, bars, and quirky gift stores all around! It’s like a little paradise for anyone looking to have a good time!
Want to take in the sights? Just grab a rental car or scooter and cruise around at your own pace.
Marathias or Malta Beach: a must-visit destination in South Corfu
📏Distance from Villa Claire Corfu Town: 25 km
⏱️ Driving time 40 minutes
Even though its official name is Marathias, don’t be surprised if you see signs for Malta Beach. It can get a bit confusing! But no matter what you call it, this beach is worth a visit. The beach features a Blue Flag Certified. This means it’s super clean and safe. Stunning crystal-clear waters are just begging you to take a dip! The beach is well organized with many sunbeds and umbrellas. For those who crave adventure, there are many water sports to try out. Among others kayaking, kitesurfing and paddleboarding.
After some fun in the sun, grab a bite at one of the cosy tavernas along the shore. They serve up delicious Greek and Corfiot dishes! If you’re looking for something lighter, check out the coffee shops and beach bars for refreshing drinks and snacks.
halikounas Beach: a pristine untouched paradise in South Corfu
📏Distance from Villa Claire Corfu : 35 km
⏱️ Driving time 45 minutes
In this slice of paradise, nature takes centre stage! Halikounas is the largest beach on Corfu, located in the southwest part of the island. It stretches several kilometres between the northern Ionian Sea and Korission Lagoon. It showcases a landscape that’s as untouched as it gets. Boasting fine gold sand and gentle waves is the ideal spot for many water activities.
This breathtaking beach remains free from hotels and overly commercialized tourist spots. Perfect for those who want to soak in nature without distractions.
The scenery includes impressive dunes that remind you of deserts. As for amenities? There’s just one beach bar named “Tayo” and “Alonaki Bay,” taverna.
Key highlights of this magical beach
Natural Beauty: Imagine long stretches of golden sand meeting stunning turquoise waters, all framed by beautiful dunes. This area is part of the Natura 2000 network. It’s about a protected spot where loggerhead turtles come to nest.
Water Fun: If you love water sports, you’re in luck! The shallow waters and gentle winds make it perfect for windsurfing and kitesurfing. Plus, you can rent equipment or take lessons if you’re just getting started.
Basic Amenities: Halikounas keeps things simple and natural. As a protected area doesn’t have any big hotels or commercial developments. You’ll find essential amenities like rentable sunbeds and umbrellas to relax under the sun.
Nature Reserves: The nearby Korission Lagoon is a birdwatcher’s paradise, attracting species like flamingos. Also, there are hiking trails that let you dive deeper into this rich ecosystem.
Getting There: It’s super easy to access Halikounas with plenty of parking nearby. You can even take a scenic walk from the surrounding villages for a bit of adventure!
Korission Lagoon: An Area of South Corfu’s Outstanding Natural Beauty
📏 Distance from Villa Claire Corfu Town: 16 km
⏱️ Driving time 29 minutes
Korission Lagoon is a stunning spot on Corfu Island. It covers about 6,0 km² with an average depth of just 0.80 meters, though it can go as deep as 1.7 meters. Halikounas Beach hugs the west side of this stunning wetland, while the gorgeous Issos Beach lies to the south.
As the largest lagoon on the island, Korission offers not just breathtaking views but also a thriving ecosystem teeming with diverse plant and animal life. Korission Lagoon has been recognized as part of the European Natura 2000 network. It has also been labelled as an “Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.”
Often confused for a lake, Korission Lagoon has a narrow man-made canal built back in 1923 that links it to the Ionian Sea. This handy channel helps local fishermen easily take their traditional boats, called “koritos,” out on the water.” The area is also rich in history, featuring archaeological finds that date back between 950,000 and 750,000 years ago! The name “Korission” comes from “korikos,” referring to those ancient Greek training sacks filled with sand. Just like the towering dunes surrounding the lagoon.
A thriving ecosystem
This lagoon is home to over 120 species of birds that flock here every year. Underwater, it’s just as lively, with plenty of fish swimming around. Among these fish are some rare finds like the endangered Zournas, the Zambarola and the Mediterranean Killifish. You’ll still spot plenty of common fish and shrimp cruising through these waters! The scenery gets even more captivating with vibrant birds and butterflies adding splashes of colour to the landscape. You might even catch sight of flamingos, cormorants, and migratory ducks making their way through this beautiful area.
And it’s not just about birds! The local wildlife includes silver-tailed deer, various types of whistles, and turtles like the Mediterranean Turtle, European Watermill Turtle, and Caspian Turtle.
The vibrant landscape boasts up to 14 different plant species, including lovely white lilies and seasonal orchids. Beautiful dunes and a little cedar forest surround the lagoon. Lovely trails are winding through the cedar forest, but watch out for some wildlife! Vipers and mosquitoes can be pretty common from May to October.
In short, Korission Lagoon is an ecological paradise that attracts nature lovers. With its serene scenery, it promises a memorable adventure for everyone who comes to soak up its unique charm!
Issos: the Sahara of Corfu
📏 Distance from Villa Claire Corfu Town: 22 km
⏱️ Driving time 33 minutes
Issos Beach is a hidden gem tucked away in the NATURA-protected area of Lagoon Korission. It’s famous for its stunning golden sands and impressive dunes, earning it the nickname “the Sahara of Corfu.”
On the partially organised beach, you’ll find some sun loungers, umbrellas, changing rooms, and showers. The shallow waters make it ideal for families and beginners looking to try snorkelling. Parents can relax while the kids have a blast in the sun. Right next door, you’ll find a gorgeous cedar forest. Thanks to the frequent winds, it’s a hotspot for kitesurfing and windsurfing.
Explore this area on your own by renting a car, as Issos Beach guarantees an unforgettable day in Corfu.
Gardenos Beach in Vitalades, south corfu: fine golden sand and crystal-clear waters!
📏 Distance from Villa Claire Corfu Town: 29 km
⏱️ Driving time 42 minutes
Gardenos Beach is located at the southwestern tip of Corfu. With golden sand and clear turquoise waters, embodies the charm of the nearby village of Vitalades. Surrounded by lush green hills, it provides an inviting atmosphere for sunbathing and swimming.
Plenty of sun loungers and umbrellas are available for visitors. Adventurous guests can partake in various water sports like jet skiing and parasailing. A distinctive feature of the beach is a small river that divides it into two sandy sections. The calm and shallow waters make it a family-friendly destination. The northern end of the beach offers charming tavernas and beach bars that boast stunning views. Additionally, Visitors can find convenient amenities such as mini markets and ample parking nearby.