Lush green slopes that meet turquoise waters, traditional villages and colorful harbors like postcards. Four beautiful villages in the Ionian Islands that you will love.
From Corfu to Kefalonia, we handpicked and recommend visiting four seaside villagesof theIonianthat stand out for their natural beauty. Yes, these villages are just as beautiful as in the photos. A stroll around their picturesque little harbors and a swim in their wonderful waters is an experience you should not miss.
Kioni, Ithaca
Your first encounter with Kioni is love at first sight. As you enter the lovely cove, you see the protected traditional settlement unfolding amphitheatrically, clinging to a lush slope that meets the sea. It is worth taking a leisurely stroll, walking among old stone houses with flower-filled courtyards, sitting for food and drinks by the water, and gazing at the three windmills, which stand proudly at the entrance of the harbor. At the top of Rachi stands the Church of the Annunciation, built at the end of the previous century, with an iconostasis of exceptional interest. Descending toward the villages picturesque little harbor, you will find the Church of Saint John with its carved wooden iconostasis, while the red-tiled rooftops of the houses peek out from a verdant, enchanting landscape.
Assos, Kefalonia
Built amphitheatrically around the namesake peninsula, amid pines and cypresses, secluded Assos looks as if it were taken from romantic novels. Here, traditional Ionian architecture with 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 (near the village lies the famous Myrtos Beach) create a setting that wins over every traveler. It is worth climbing to the Venetian castle, which offers stunning views at sunset.
Loggos, Paxos
The picturesque and quiet Loggos, on the southern side of Paxos, is the islands smallest village. The scene is composed of a small bay swathed in pines and olive trees that almost touch the sea, a pretty-as-a-picture colorful harbor, fish tavernas, charming little bars, and an abandoned factory (Anemogiannis soap factory) at the edge of the port. Loggos is famed for its tavernas, which serve ultra-fresh fish and seafood. From the village, small boats depart daily for the spectacular sea caves and the beaches of the island, as well as for Antipaxos.
Paleokastritsa, Corfu
You cannot go to Corfu and not visit Paleokastritsa, which is located in the northwestern part of the island, 25 km from Corfu Town. The impressive natural landscape, lush vegetation, and a series of wonderful beaches separated by small headlands make swimming here a unique experience. The beaches of Paleokastritsa have crystal-clear turquoise waters (but quite cold even on the warmest days). First you will encounter the organized Agia Triada beach. At the end of Paleokastritsa, below the historic monastery (it is worth visiting), lies the famous Agios Spyridon beach. There are also smaller coves for swimming, such as Alypa, Agios Petros, Ampelaki and Platakia. Shortly after the entrance to the village, go down the steps to find the enchanting La Grotta cove. Do not forget to rent a boat to explore the mesmerizing sea caves and nearby beaches that are accessible only from the sea.
