Paleokastritsa is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful and well-known places on the island of Corfu, recognized for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, hidden coves, and rich history. Located 24 km northwest of Corfu Town, Paleokastritsa consists of two peninsulas and six picturesque coves. On one of the hills, atop a rocky promontory above the sea, stands the monastery of the same name, offering a spectacular view of the surrounding area and the Ionian Sea from its courtyard. With its stunning landscapes, rich vegetation, olive groves, and pine forests, this area leaves an unforgettable impression on every visitor.

The trademark of this beautiful place is undoubtedly the monastery dedicated to the Virgin Mary. Built in 1225, it owes its present appearance to reconstructions during the 18th and 19th centuries, when the monastic cells and the beautiful courtyard with arches were added. The monastery’s museum houses an exceptional collection of Byzantine icons, holy books, vestments, and sacred relics. For visitors who wish to enrich their vacation with cultural content in addition to enjoying the beach, the monastery is a perfect choice.

As is often the case, local legends claim that it was here in Paleokastritsa that Odysseus was shipwrecked, and in the sea, there is a rock believed to be his ship, which Poseidon turned to stone.

During the Middle Ages, pirates frequently attacked this area, and local residents withdrew to the village of Lakones, located above Paleokastritsa. Due to its position, this village enjoys the most sunny hours of the year compared to other places on the island, and the view from the village is certainly worth a visit.

Due to the place’s great popularity, it can get quite crowded during the season, so we recommend arriving early to find a spot on the beach and for parking.

This area is home to six coves with beautiful water, as well as numerous hidden beaches, of which up to 15 can be reached by sea. Since Paleokastritsa is located on the part of Corfu facing the open sea, the sea currents make the water quite cold, even during summer. Therefore, it is not surprising that many visitors choose to sunbathe and enjoy the view of the endless blue of the Ionian Sea. The well-known beaches in the area include Ampelaki, Agios Petros, Alipa, Agia Triada, and Agios Spiridon.

Agios Spiridon Beach is known for its crescent-shaped sandy shore, incredibly clean turquoise water, and the seabed, which is covered with rocks and quickly becomes deep. The beach is well-organized, with showers, a ramp for people with disabilities, and umbrellas and loungers available for rent at prices that may not be the most affordable, while the largest part of the beach is reserved for visitors with their own equipment. Agios Spiridon is the central beach of the area and is always the most visited, both on the shore and in the water, so we advise you to be cautious while swimming due to the presence of many boats that do not respect the designated swimming zones.

Paleokastritsa is famous for its numerous hidden sea caves, which can only be reached by boat. Tourist boats regularly transport visitors to these fascinating natural formations, which are abundant in this part of the island. Thanks to this, Paleokastritsa offers plenty of short but unforgettable excursions, with boats departing from the far-right side of Agios Spiridon Beach when facing the sea.

For diving enthusiasts, Paleokastritsa offers a unique experience thanks to its clear waters and rich marine life. In this idyllic spot, there is also a diving center where you can explore the underwater world and awaken the adventurer within. Visitors can also enjoy canoe and pedal boat rides, rent motorboats, or try various water sports.

Paleokastritsa offers everything you need for a perfect vacation – luxury restaurants, attractive beach bars, and diverse accommodations nearby. Beach bars are ideal places to refresh and have a light meal during the day, while in the surrounding area, you can enjoy a wide range of traditional Greek tavernas, restaurants, and cocktail bars.

The evening hours are perfect for relaxing on one of the terraces, enjoying refreshing drinks, and watching the beautiful sunset. Don’t miss the unique La Grotta Beach Bar, located in a cave, which you can reach by stairs from the main road of the resort or by boat.

Although Paleokastritsa is not a typical village, there are numerous accommodations and tourist facilities along the coastal road. In the settlement itself, you can find a market, bakeries, tavernas, cafes, and souvenir shops.

Just before the ascent to the monastery, you will find the Corfu Aquarium, where you can enjoy views of various fish and reptiles.

Paleokastritsa is well-connected to the island’s capital and is one of the most visited resorts on the island, with regular bus routes every day. To get to Paleokastritsa, which is about a 40-minute drive from Corfu Town, you can take the A9 bus.

Right behind Agios Spiridon Beach, there is a large parking lot, for which a daily ticket is required. If you want to keep Paleokastritsa in your good memories, we recommend arriving early, as it will be difficult to find a free parking spot otherwise.

Paleokastritsa is one of the most picturesque and scenic places on Corfu, ideal for anyone seeking peace and natural beauty. Beaches with turquoise, crystal-clear water, hidden coves, sea caves that can only be reached by boat, and stunning sunsets make Paleokastritsa the perfect place to relax and enjoy nature, and it will captivate you so much that you will want to return again and again.

For a detailed overview of accommodation options in Paleokastritsa click HERE.