Lush green slopes that meet turquoise waters, traditional villages and colorful harbors like a postcard. Four beautiful villages on the Ionian Islands that you'll love.
From Corfu to Kefalonia, we handpicked and recommend you visit four seaside villages of the Ionian Islands that stand out for their natural beauty. Yes, these villages are just as beautiful as in the photos. Strolling through their picturesque little harbors and swimming in their wonderful waters is an experience you shouldn't miss.
Kioni, Ithaca
Kioni is love at first sight. As you enter the pretty cove, you see the protected traditional village unfolding in tiers, perched on a lush green slope that meets the sea. It's worth strolling through it, walking among the old stone houses with flower-filled courtyards, sitting for food and a drink by the water, and gazing at the three windmills, which stand proudly at the harbor's entrance. At the top of Rachi stands the Church of the Evangelistria, built at the end of the previous century, with an iconostasis of exceptional interest. Heading down toward the village's picturesque little harbor, you'll find the Church of Saint John with its carved wooden iconostasis, while the red-tiled roofs of the houses peek out from a lush, enchanting landscape.
Assos, Kefalonia
Built in tiers around the eponymous peninsula, amid pines and cypresses, secluded Assos seems lifted from romantic novels. Here, traditional Ionian Islands architecture with its colorful houses has been largely preserved. The picturesque little harbor with boats and yachts, the main pebbled beach with turquoise waters, as well as the dozens of beaches in the wider area (the famous Myrtos beach is also near the village), create a setting that wins over every traveler. It's worth climbing up to the Venetian castle, which offers stunning views at sunset.
Loggos, Paxos
Picturesque and quiet Loggos, on the south side of Paxos, is the island's smallest village. The scene is a small bay 'drowned' in pines and olive trees that almost touch the sea, a cute, colorful harbor, fish tavernas, charming bars, and an abandoned factory (Anemogiannis soapworks) at the edge of the harbor. Loggos is famous for its little tavernas, which serve ultra-fresh fish and seafood. Boats depart daily from the village for the island's impressive sea caves and beaches, as well as Antipaxos.
Paleokastritsa, Corfu
You can't go to Corfu without visiting Paleokastritsa, which is in the island's northwestern part, 25 km. from Corfu Town. The dramatic natural landscape, dense vegetation, and a series of gorgeous beaches separated by small headlands make swimming here a unique experience. Paleokastritsa's beaches have crystal-clear turquoise waters (but they're quite cold even on the warmest days). First you'll find the organized beach of Agia Triada. At the end of Paleokastritsa, under the historic monastery (it's worth a visit), lies the famous Agios Spyridon beach. There are also smaller coves for swimming, such as Alypa, Agios Petros, Ampelaki, and Platakia. Just after the village entrance, go down the steps to reach the magical cove La Grotta. Don't forget to rent a boat to explore the enchanting sea caves and nearby beaches that are accessible only from the sea.
