Are you ready to lace up your hiking boots and embark on an unforgettable adventure? Hiking in Corfu, a beautiful Greek island nestled in the Ionian Sea, offers an incredible variety of hiking trails to suit all levels of experience. From challenging mountain treks to gentle village strolls, the island’s diverse landscapes and rich history make it a perfect holiday destination for hiking enthusiasts. So grab your backpack and let’s start exploring the wonders of Corfu together!
Short Summary
Experience the beauty and culture of Corfu’s hiking gems with trails for all levels
Conquer Mount Pantokrator or explore hidden waterfalls, lush forests and island-hopping adventures
Enjoy stunning views, fascinating wildlife encounters and a journey through history on your hike!
Discovering Corfu’s Hiking Gems
The island of Corfu is a hiker’s paradise, with numerous trails catering to different skill levels and interests. Whether you’re looking for a challenging climb or a leisurely walk through picturesque villages, Corfu has something you’re bound to find delightful. As you traverse these incredible trails, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the Ionian Sea, lush olive groves, and glimpses of the island’s fascinating history.
Some of the best hiking trails in Corfu include:
The majestic Corfu Trail, which offers a week-long adventure across the island
The Pelekas-Liapades trail, a thrilling 22km stretch that takes you through charming villages and the Mount Pantokrator hiking trail
The Yannades-Liapades-Liapades beach hike, where you can enjoy the island’s beautiful coastal landscapes.
The Majestic Corfu Trail
The Corfu Trail is a medium-to-difficult Corfu hiking trail experience that covers the entire island, showcasing its diverse landscapes, historic sites, and stunning views. Along the Corfu hiking trails, you will find:
Starting in the southernmost part of the island at Kavos
Culminating at the beautiful Saint Spiridon beach
Passing through majestic gorges
Visiting beautiful beaches
Walking through lush olive groves
Exploring picturesque plateaus
The trail is filled with exciting landmarks like Arkoudilas Monastery, Arkoudilas beach, and Spartera village. Depending on your pace and determination, it can take a week or less to complete the Corfu Trail. At the end of your journey, you can celebrate your accomplishment with a refreshing swim and savor delicious local food and drinks at the bars and restaurants in the area.
Coastal Trails for Stunning Views
For those who prefer to keep their feet closer to the sea, Corfu offers breathtaking coastal trails such as the Porto Timoni and Cape Drastis Loop. This invigorating two-hour walk offers stunning panoramic views across the ocean and the awe-inspiring wave-carved cliffs at Cape Drastis.
Another beautiful coastal trail in Corfu is the Twin Bay Hiking Trail, also known as the Ermones Beach to Myrtiotissa Beach Loop. This exhilarating 4-kilometer hiking trail offers stunning coastal views and starts at Ermones beach and ends at Myrtiotissa beach. It is a great trail for beginners and intermediates and takes about 3 hours to complete. Hikers will be rewarded with major elevation changes, perfect for those seeking a little challenge.
Historical Paths Through Time
Immerse yourself in Corfu’s rich history by hiking through ancient villages, monasteries, and ruins on trails like the Old Perithia Loop and the Donkey Path Trail. The Old Perithia Loop takes you to the historically significant village of Corfu, which is likely the island’s oldest. As you hike, you’ll be delighted by the sight of Pantokratoras, Corfu’s highest mountain, as well as old homes and other historical landmarks.
The Donkey Path Trail, also known as the Santa Barbara Trail, is a rewarding short trail that starts at Paleokastritsa and ascends up the hill to the village of Lakones. This trail offers a glimpse into the lives of the local ancient Greeks, as you’ll encounter ancient ruins along the way. The route is one of the most scenic mountain paths in the region.
Conquering Mount Pantokrator
For the more adventurous hikers, the Mount Pantokrator trail is a must. This 12-kilometer trail, with an elevation change of more than 1000 meters, is considered one of the most rewarding and exhilarating hiking trails in Corfu. The trail includes:
Starting in the charming town of Nisaki
Taking you on a breathtaking journey through Palies Sinies
Providing ancient ruins that offer insight into the lives of the local ancient Greeks
Reaching the summit of Mount Pantokrator, Corfu’s highest peak, is a challenging yet rewarding experience. At the top, you’ll find a charming cafe and a stunning monastery likely built at the start of the 14th century. Take a moment to enjoy the incredible views before making your descent, knowing you’ve conquered the highest mountain on the island.
Village Treks: Experiencing Authentic Greek Life
Experience authentic Greek life on the Greek islands by hiking through charming villages like Agi Deka, Stavros, and Pelekas. As you stroll through these picturesque towns, you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy local cuisine, interact with warm and welcoming locals, and immerse yourself in the island’s unique culture.
Some of the most delightful village hikes in Corfu include the Pelekas to Benitses hiking trail, the Agios Giorgos (South) – Ano Pavliana trail, and the Benitses and Mount Stavros loop. Each of these trails offers a different glimpse into village life, from exploring ancient fortresses to discovering hidden beaches and lush green forests.
Easy Hikes for Beginners
If you’re new to hiking or simply looking for a more leisurely experience, Corfu also offers a variety of beginner-friendly hikes. The Vlacherna Trail is an exciting and rewarding hiking trail suitable for all skill levels. With a length of just two kilometers, you’ll be able to enjoy breathtaking views of the sea, historic structures, and beautiful churches without the need for a strenuous climb.
Another great option for beginners is the Corfu Town Walk, a 5.5-kilometer loop that begins in Corfu’s old town and takes you on a journey through Kerkyra. This trail allows you to appreciate the town’s culture and history while enjoying stunning sights along the way.
Tips for a Successful Hike in Corfu
To make the most of your hiking experience in Corfu, it’s essential to plan ahead. The ideal time to go hiking in Corfu is from April to July, when the weather is mild and the trails are at their most beautiful.
When packing for your adventure, be sure to include:
Comfortable and supportive hiking boots
A hat
Sunscreen
A map
A compass
A first aid kit
Snacks
Plenty of water
By being prepared and following these tips, you’ll be able to fully enjoy the stunning landscapes and memorable experiences that await you on Corfu’s hiking trails.
Wildlife Encounters on Corfu Trails
Corfu’s diverse ecosystems are home to an array of vibrant and rare wildlife that can be encountered on the island’s hiking trails. Some of the wildlife you may encounter include:
Stunning and rare birds
Snakes
Lizards
Fireflies
Insects
Warblers
Flycatchers
Whitethroats
Blue rollers
Swallows
Sand martins
Bee-eaters
There’s no shortage of fascinating creatures to observe during your hikes.
When observing wildlife on Corfu trails, it’s important to be mindful of the animals and their habitats. Be sure to keep a respectful distance and be mindful of your actions, such as making loud noises or sudden movements that could startle the animals. By following these guidelines, you’ll be able to enjoy the island’s unique wildlife in a respectful and responsible manner.
Exploring Corfu Town on Foot
Corfu Town, the historic and vibrant heart of the island, is best explored on foot. With its unique architecture, bustling markets, and picturesque squares, there’s always something new and exciting to discover around every corner.
One of the best ways to experience the charm of Corfu Town is by taking the Old Town Hiking Trail, a 5.5-kilometer loop that takes you through the town’s historic center. As you wander through the narrow cobblestone streets, you’ll be immersed in the town’s rich history and culture, making for a truly unforgettable experience.
Hidden Waterfalls and Lush Forests
For those seeking a more tranquil and refreshing escape from the island’s sun-soaked beaches, Corfu’s hidden waterfalls and lush forests provide the perfect backdrop for a peaceful hike. The Nymphes Waterfalls hike is a great option for day-trippers. It’s an easy to follow trail of a total of 3km outside Nymfes village, and leads to splendid Nymfes Waterfalls.
Another hidden gem is the Nymphes Waterfalls trail, a 5.1-kilometer out-and-back trail in Nymfes that leads to Corfu’s most impressive and breathtaking waterfalls. Surrounded by lush foliage and the soothing sounds of cascading water, these enchanting spots provide a serene and rejuvenating experience for all who visit.
Island Hopping: Trails Connecting to Neighboring Islands
If you’re looking to venture beyond Corfu’s shores, there are hiking trails that connect to neighboring islands, providing a truly unique island-hopping experience. The Arillas Trail, for example, is an amazing walking path that follows the stunning Arillas stream and leads to beautiful ancient olive groves in the picturesque Magoulades village.
As you explore these trails and discover the hidden gems of Corfu and its neighboring islands, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views, unforgettable experiences, and a newfound appreciation for the natural beauty and rich history of this enchanting corner of the world.
So, what are you waiting for? It’s time to embark on your island-hopping adventure and uncover the countless wonders that await you in Corfu and beyond!
Summary
In conclusion, Corfu is a hiker’s paradise, boasting a diverse range of trails that cater to all skill levels and interests. From the challenging Mount Pantokrator to the tranquil Nymphes Waterfalls, there’s a trail for everyone on this beautiful Greek island. So whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a beginner looking for a leisurely stroll, pack your bags, lace up your boots, and set off on an unforgettable adventure as you explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich history of Corfu.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Corfu good for walking?
Corfu is perfect for walking, with the Corfu Trail suitable for all levels of walkers and offering a variety of landscapes to explore year round. It is a great way to experience the beauty of the island, with its stunning views, lush vegetation, and diverse wildlife. The trail is well marked and easy to follow, with plenty of rest stops and places to take in the scenery.
How long does it take to hike the Corfu Trail?
This 111.8-mile point-to-point trail near Lefkimmi, Corfu takes an average of 9 days to complete and is a popular route for backpacking, camping, and hiking.
With challenging terrain, it typically takes 52 hours to hike the Corfu Trail.
What is the best time of year to walk the Corfu Trail?
The best time of year to walk the Corfu Trail is between May and October as the weather is dry and warm and accommodation is cheaper and more readily available during this period.
This is the ideal time to explore the island’s stunning landscapes, take in the breathtaking views, and experience the unique culture and history of Corfu.
How do you hike the Corfu Trail?
Embark on your journey and explore the Corfu Trail, starting from Kavos town and hiking all the way up to the top of the island. Follow the path south through Arkoudilas Beach and onwards to Lefkimmi for an unforgettable experience.
Discover the beauty of the island’s landscape, from the lush green hills to the crystal clear waters of the Ionian Sea. Enjoy the stunning views of the coastline and the unique flora and fauna of the area. Take in the fresh air.
What are some beginner-friendly hikes in Corfu?
Experience the beauty of Corfu with easy and beautiful hikes like the Vlacherna Trail and the Corfu Town Walk – perfect for beginners.
These hikes offer stunning views of the island, as well as a chance to explore the local culture and history. They are perfect for those looking for a leisurely stroll or a more challenging trek.
No matter your level, no matter what your level.