Southern Corfu: The Coast of Golden Sand
Discover the sun-drenched beaches just a short drive from Conte Marco.
- Messonghi Beach (2 km): Your closest choice. A calm, pebbly and sandy beach with shallow waters, perfect for a quick swim and seaside lunch at the local tavernas.
- Boukari Beach (5 km): A quiet, narrow beach with crystal clear water. It is the best spot for those who want to avoid crowds and enjoy a meal at the famous fish tavernas right by the sea.
- Issos Beach (12 km): Often called the “Sahara of Corfu.” A spectacular, vast sandy beach with impressive dunes and the Korission Lake right behind it. Perfect for sunset walks and windsurfing.
- Halikounas Beach (14 km): A wild, untouched strip of sand between the sea and the lake. There are no big buildings here—just nature, sand, and deep blue water.
- Marathias & Santa Barbara (15 km): Famous for their wide golden sand and clean, open sea. There are excellent beach bars and traditional tavernas along the coast.
- Agios Georgios South (13 km): A long, organized sandy beach that is very popular with families. The water is clear and the sunset views are beautiful.Marathias & Santa Barbara (15 km): Famous for their wide golden sand and clean, open sea. There are excellent beach bars and traditional tavernas along the coast.
- Agios Georgios South (13 km): A long, organized sandy beach that is very popular with families. The water is clear and the sunset views are beautiful.
- Gardenos Beach (20 km): A hidden paradise at the very south of the island. It’s a peaceful, sandy bay surrounded by lush green hills, offering a very local and authentic feel.
- Arkoudilas Beach (26 km): Located at the southernmost tip of Corfu (near Kavos). A wild, majestic beach with high clay cliffs and turquoise waters. It requires a bit of a drive, but the scenery is breathtaking.
Traditional Villages: A Journey Back in Time
Explore the authentic soul of Corfu through its historic southern villages.
- Spileo (Your home): A peaceful, traditional settlement ideally located midway between the historic Corfu Town and the bustling town of Lefkimmi. It offers the perfect balance for your stay—a quiet retreat in the heart of the island, with easy access to both the cosmopolitan north and the scenic south.
- Messonghi (2 km): Your vibrant coastal neighbor. Once a small fishing village, it is now a friendly seaside destination where the river meets the sea. Perfect for dining by the water, shopping for local products, or a relaxed evening walk.
- Chlomatiana (4 km): A tiny, picturesque village very close to Conte Marco. It is perfect for a quick afternoon stroll to admire the traditional architecture and the lush green surroundings.
- Agios Dimitrios (5 km): A true hidden gem. This tiny, peaceful village is ideal for those who want to see the untouched side of Corfu. Surrounded by dense vegetation and olive trees, it’s a wonderful spot for a quiet drive.
- Chlomos (6 km): Often called “The Balcony of Corfu.” This 13th-century village is built on a mountain slope and offers the most stunning 360-degree views of the island. Its bright orange and red houses make it one of the most Instagrammable spots in the south.
- Agios Matheos (14 km): A large, historic village nestled at the foot of Mount Pantokrator (the southern one). It is famous for its dense olive groves, its local olive oil mill, and the beautiful stone-built houses.
- Gastouri (16 km): One of the most famous villages in Greece, home to the magnificent Achilleion Palace. Its narrow streets and neoclassical influence reflect the aristocratic history of the island.
- Benitses (12 km): A historic fishing village that has evolved into a charming tourist spot. Visit the traditional square, explore the ruins of the Roman Baths, or walk through the old village (Palaia Benitsa) for a touch of nostalgia.
- Perivoli (17 km): A charming village on the way to the southern tip. It has a rich history, beautiful old churches, and serves as the gateway to the magnificent sandy beaches of the southwest.
- Argirades (11 km): A UNESCO protected traditional settlement. Its narrow streets and houses date back to the Venetian era. It’s a place where history feels alive in every corner.
- Lefkimmi (22 km): The second largest town of the island, but with a very traditional heart. It is divided by a small canal where fishing boats dock, surrounded by cafes and tavernas—it feels like a “mini Venice” of the south.
Corfu Old Town: A Living Museum
A UNESCO World Heritage site where history, elegance, and island life blend perfectly.
Located just 22 km from Conte Marco, Corfu Town is a captivating mix of Venetian, French, and British influences. Walking through its narrow, winding alleys—known as “Kantounia”—feels like stepping back in time to an era of knights and countesses.
What to See & Do
- The Liston & Spianada Square: Inspired by the Rue de Rivoli in Paris, the Liston is the town’s social heart. Sip a coffee under the grand arches and overlook Spianada, the largest square in the Balkans, where you might even catch a cricket match!
- The Old & New Fortresses: Two imposing Venetian citadels that once protected the island from invaders. Climb to the top of the Old Fortress for a breathtaking 360-degree view of the town and the Ionian Sea.
- Saint Spyridon Church: Visit the resting place of the island’s patron saint, famous for its red-domed bell tower—the tallest in the city.
- Palace of St. Michael & St. George: A stunning example of British Regency architecture, now housing the unique Museum of Asian Art.
- Faliraki: A hidden swimming spot right under the Old Fortress walls, perfect for a quick dip with a view of the sea and the castle.
The Experience
By day, explore the boutiques, jewelry stores, and local shops selling Kumquat sweets and handcrafted olive wood items. By night, the town transforms into a romantic setting with atmospheric bars, fine dining restaurants, and the sound of local philharmonic bands practicing in the distance.