Great Things to Do Near Gaia
The Olive Oil Museum
Corfu is famous for its olive trees and oil, and the locals are very proud of their oil which is all hand produced. The museum in the village of Aghios Matheas lets you see the whole process of producing the oil, from the tree right through to the finished product.
Kite surfing
The more energetic among the party may like to try this high adrenaline sport. Contact the Kite Surfing Club, based on Halikounas beach.
See Corfu Town from the Big Red Bus
Drive to Corfu Town and pick up the Big Red Bus from the port. This open-topped 'Hop On / Hop Off' bus 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.
Visit the Achilleion Palace
One of the most famous royal mansions in Europe, some consider the Achilleion Palace to be the most important architectural landmark in Corfu. Built in 1890, entirely at the expense of the Empress Elisabeth of Austria (also known as Sisi), the palace acted as a quiet retreat for this controversial historical figure. You can stroll through the lovely gardens dedicated to her hero Achilles or simply enjoy the stunning architecture.
Visit Mouse Island (Pontikinissi)
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.
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.
Go for lunch on Vidos Island
Vidos Island used to house an ancient Venetian fortress, later turned into the Corfu ‘Alcatraz’! Now, it is simply a wonderfully tranquil spot to go for a walk, a quiet swim and a perfect setting for lunch – with the beautiful view of Corfu town and its fortresses in front of you. You catch the boats for Vidos in the car park at the old port, which you will find situated in front of the new fortress.
Go hill walking along the many trails
The Spartillas to Ano Perithia via Mount Pantokrator is one of our favourites. Hike through the hills to the highest peak on the island and visit the deserted hillside village of Ano Perithea for a delightful lunch in one of the tavernas there along the way. Remember your camera!
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.
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!
Sip wine in Agias Mattheos
Home of some of the best locally produced wines in Corfu just drive into the old village, park (abandon like the locals do) your car and knock on one of the doors that are signposted 'local wines' - Yammas!
Visit Lake Korission
Go for a walk around the lake, watch the windsurfers just off the huge expanse of golden sandy beach, and explore the nearby Gardiki castle – a busy day out for all the family. And right on your doorstep too!
A Visit to Lefkimi
Head further south and visit the second largest town in Corfu. Lefkimmi is a traditional village which still has the charm of an old fashioned Greek town. Drive down to the river (Potami) and sit back at one of the cafes or local tavernas and watch all the locals go about their business. Then finish the day at the local beach, Boukari, at the mouth of the river.
Halikounas Beach
On the south-west coast, discover an unspoilt area that has not been developed with tourism. Halikounas Beach is one of the best beaches on Corfu, with a beautiful sandy beach and gently sloping waters. Whilst there, explore the lake which is set behind the beach. Stop on the way home at one of the very traditional tavernas along the roadside.
