Corfu

Short transfer to the small harbour town of Vatos in the centre of the island of Corfu. From here you will first walk through the Ropa Valley before the Corfu Trail takes you up to the picturesque village of Giannades. Shady olive groves line the path high above the west coast to the ancient village of Liapades, the dreamlike sandy beach tempts you with a refreshing swim in the sea.

Today's stage starts at the beach and leads along old shepherds' paths to the village of Lakones. From here you have a beautiful view of the turquoise water and the bays of Paleokastritsa. Take the opportunity for a short detour to the ruins of a Byzantine castle before the path leads you back down to the sea and to the long sandy beach of Agios Georgios Pagon, your stage destination today.

First uphill to the villages of Prinilas and Paghi in the interior. Through fertile valleys you follow the Corfu Trail further into the centre of the island, passing historic hamlets and a nunnery with its beautifully frescoed church. In Rekini you cross the river and continue uphill to the villages of Valanio and Sokraki hidden among the rocky ridges.

The first part of the hike is initially flat through thick forests and green valleys to Spartilas. You follow an old footpath uphill to the spectacular view at the Taxiarchis Chapel. Across a rocky plateau you climb to the top of Pantokrator Mountain, the highest mountain on Corfu at 917m. Enjoy the view before your descent to the historic ruined village of Perithia.

Today's stage runs along a beautiful path downhill through original oak forests, always towards the sea until you reach the north coast at Almiros beach and the northern end of the Corfu Trail at Agios Spyridon. Then a short bus or taxi ride to Kassiopi, your overnight stop today.

The unspoiled peninsula of Erimitis in the north-east of the island, near the Albanian border, is a true paradise for all nature lovers. Winding footpaths lead to hidden coves, crystal clear waters and pristine wetlands that serve as nesting grounds and havens for birds of all kinds. Walk along the coast to the village of Kalami, from where you take the local bus back to Kassiopi.