On the Greek island of Corfu hiking fans and nature lovers will find a true paradise. Rugged mountain landscapes and lush green vegetation give this island on the Ionian see its unique character. Because of its location between Greece and Italy the people of Corfu have a particularly rich and fascinating cultural heritage. The ancient Greeks, the Romans, the Crusaders, but also the British and French have left their mark in the course of their history. Particularly impressive is the centuries-long rule of the Venetians, whose pastel-coloured houses with their colourful roofs and winding medieval alleys still characterise the unmistakable image of the small towns and villages.
Whether on the coast or in the countryside, Corfu is perfect for hiking all year round. Dreamy beaches, shady olive groves and the warmth of the locals make the holiday here an unforgettable experience. From the capital of the same name, Corfu, you travel on a hiking route through the Ropa Valley in the village of Liapades, then to Agios Georgios Pagon and on to Sokraki, to the historical village of Old Perithia and finally to Kassiopi in the northeast of the island. The island in the Ionian Sea is marked by a long history from Greeks, Venetians and Romans and is home to numerous impressive cultural sites. On our eight-day walking tour you will stay in typical hotels and accommodation. In the evening, you can look forward to the wonderful Mediterranean island cuisine.
Highlights of the mountain hiking holiday on Corfu
Turquoise blue time out by the sea: The countless beaches and idyllic hiking paths offer the perfect opportunity for a hiking break in the deep blue sea.
Fresh island cuisine: On your hiking tour you must try the typical specialties from Corfu, whether that is veal sofrito, boiled chicken pastitsada, boiled scorpion fish bourdetto, fried sheep's cheese saganaki or the local kumquats, a typical trademark of the island.
Wandering through the town of Corfu: Right at the start of your hiking tour you have the opportunity to get to know the islands capital. The UNESCO World Heritage Site is well known for its Venetian architecture in beautiful pastel colours and charming alleyways. Also visit the old harbour, the promenade "Nikiforou Theotki" or the town square.
Useful information about mountain hiking on Corfu
Our hiking tour on Corfu is classified as a 'Mountain Hiking'. With a good basic level of fitness and surefootedness the daily stages will become a wonderful break on the picturesque Greek island. We recommend sturdy shoes and surefootedness for the rocky hiking paths.
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.
approx. 4 hours
12 km
350 m
350 m
Day
8
Departure or extension
Tour character
A good basic level of fitness is required for the daily hikes. You will walk on good hiking trails, either along the coast or in the highlands. Sometimes sure-footedness is required for the stages through rocky and stony terrain. Picturesque beaches and green mountain country in all its facets.