Great Things to Do Near Anatoli
A fun day out at Aqualand
Corfu Aqualand, near to the village of Agios Ioannis, is one of the largest water parks in Europe and features 51 slides, several pools, a lazy river and a wide variety of other water attractions. There’s something for all ages here and it is a great way to keep the whole family entertained.
Take a trip to the monastery of Mirtiotissa
Not easy to find, but well worth the effort. Head out of the village of Vatos, towards Glyfada, and look out for the signposts nailed onto the olive trees along the right hand side of the road. Remember your map and your swimwear - although the latter is not essential as the beach at Mirtiotissa is a naturist beach (the only one on the island)!
Sail on a glass bottom boat
Leaving Paleokastritsa daily over the main season, you'll see amazing undersea wonders, visit incredible caves close to Ermones that can only be accessed from the water, and enjoy an afternoon on Paradise Beach - a huge expanse of white sand/shingle beach and aquamarine sea also only accessible by boat.
Visit Pontikinissi (Mouse Island)
What a lovely way to spend a half day, take a trip out to the Kanoni peninsula and enjoy a coffee on the waterfront café there, next to the Vlahernon monastery, which is also an island, but has been connected to the Kanoni peninsula by a small causeway. It's from this small causeway that you take the regular boat crossing over to Pontikinissi about a 5 minute boat trip away. Don’t forget your swimming gear, as you can easily have a lovely swim here.
Play a round of golf
You'll find the island's 18-hole golf course close to Ermones on the Ropa Valley (west of Corfu Town). This excellent course (one of only half a dozen in all of Greece!) was created by the British during their time of occupation.
Experience the 'volta'
In any town or large village, especially on a weekend or holiday, the inhabitants of the town will congregate in the main square in the early evening, to have a stroll around, talk to their friends, have an aperitif or ice cream, before dispersing for dinner. It is the perfect time to people watch!
Scenic drive – The north west coast
To start this stunningly beautiful drive, head for Tzavros junction in central Corfu, next to the resort of Gouvia. From here, drive north via Liapades to Paleokastritsa (we advise you to stop here for a while, to visit the lovely monastery). From Paleokastritsa, the road starts to climb and twist and climb again up through the village of Lakones to Makrades. From here, we recommend that you visit the castle ruins of Angelokastro. Once you’ve had a coffee here, head for Troumpetta, passing through Vistonas. From Troumpetta head back towards the south of the Island to Tzavros again.
Promenade along the Liston
This is the place to people watch! Take a stroll along this elegant arcaded avenue, where families gather and locals parade their newly purchased clothes. Choose a café, enjoy the atmosphere and take your time; the coffees may be a little bit more expensive than in other parts, but the entertainment comes free of charge!
Snorkelling
Head to Agni bay where the water is sublimely clear and protective rocks create a perfect bay ideal for snorkelling.
Go ride a bike!
There are a number of dedicated cycle trails all over Corfu. Enquire at the ‘Giant’ mountain bike shop in Dassia for a map and information on bike hire locally. What better way to enjoy the scenery?
Search for the bat cave in Kaminaki
Difficult to find, but worth it once you get there. Park your car near to the shell petrol station, and walk down the path towards the beach, you’ll find the entrance tucked under an ageing fig tree on one of the bends about halfway down the steep hill!
Visit Mon Repos
A visit to Mon Repos is well worthwhile. A Royal mansion, with huge gardens, fountains, ancient trees and plants. Also famed for being the birthplace of Prince Philip. Mon Repos is only a 20 minute walk from the centre of the old town of Corfu, at the start of the Kanoni peninsula.
The summit of Mount Pantokrator
is a definite must to visit. Choose a clear day and drive to the top (you can cycle but it is so much easier driving!). It may be hot down in the valley but you will definitely feel the difference in temperature at the top! As you drive up, note the amazing changes in landscape.
Visit the Durrells' home
Visit the White House in Kalami, home to the Durrell family back in the 1930's, whilst Lawrence wrote his novel 'Prospero's Cell' and where Gerald wrote 'My Family and Other Animals', both a must read when holidaying in Corfu.
Boat trip to 3 islands (Diapondia) off the north coast
Erikousa, Mathraki and Othoni are three very quiet and completely uncommercial islands lying 11 nautical miles off the north coast of Corfu. This trip in a caique usually departs from the resort of Sidari, takes about one hour and is well worth the trip. You can have lunch on one of the islands, and the photo opportunities are brilliant.
The Big Red Bus
Drive down to Corfu Town and pick up the Big Red Bus from the port. This relatively new service is an open-topped, 'Hop On / Hop Off' bus that takes you on a guided tour all around Corfu Town and the outlying areas. It’s a great way to see and hear about the Town's history and highlights.
Enjoy a little retail therapy!
The narrow streets radiating off from the Liston house small shops of every commercial nature. Dominated by the 'gold shops', Corfiot craftsmen excel at designing and making Greek jewellery in gold - this coupled with competitive prices may tempt you. Among the bustle, look out for those shops and stalls selling local items like wild honey, fig cakes and handmade lace.
Explore the north-east coast by boat
Hire a boat for the day to explore the beautiful north-east coast, probably the prettiest coastline here on the island. You can stop off in any number of little coves that can only be discovered by sea, go for a swim or try some snorkelling, before heading to one of the bays (Agni, Kalami or San Stefanos) for a spot of lunch.
