Summer Wine Corfu

The North Coast – Mountains, Villages, and Endless Sea

The north of Corfu is where the island’s wild side comes to life.

Here, the landscape rises into dramatic mountain slopes and then drops into hidden coves of turquoise water. Small stone villages cling to hillsides, and narrow roads wind through olive groves and forested ridges, offering some of the best views in the Ionian. The pace is unhurried. The air is fresh. And every turn reveals something new: a crumbling chapel, a family-run vineyard, a beach only locals know about.

This is the Corfu that rewards explorers—the kind of place where you lose the map, follow the curves of the land, and find something unforgettable. Whether you’re staying in the charming coastal town of Acharavi or trekking to the summit of Mount Pantokrator, the north delivers rugged beauty with soul.

🍽 Where to Eat – Mountain Taverns and Coastal Kitchens

1. Maistro Taverna (Acharavi) Fresh seafood and traditional Corfiot dishes with sea views. Don’t miss the grilled seabass or the homemade olive tapenade.

2. Dolce Freddo (Acharavi) Perfect for breakfast or dessert. House-made gelato, strong espresso, and flaky bougatsa pastries.

3. The Old Perithia Taverna (Old Perithia Village) A mountain village legend. Rustic charm, fire-grilled meats, and slow-cooked Corfiot stews in one of the oldest villages on the island.

4. Nikos Taverna (Agios Spiridon) Casual beachfront tavern offering grilled octopus, local wine, and excellent veggie moussaka.

5. Taverna Foros (Episkepsi) Hidden on a hillside, this local favorite serves hearty homemade dishes with sweeping valley views.

6. Savoura Restaurant (Kassiopi) A slightly more upscale option in the picturesque harbor town of Kassiopi. Perfect for seafood pasta and chilled white wine.

7. The Night Owl (Peroulades) Dine under the stars on a mountain terrace. Their lemon chicken and herb potatoes are unforgettable.

🏖 What to Do – Mountains, Coastlines, and Crystal Waters

1. Hike Mount Pantokrator The highest point on the island. You can hike from Old Perithia or drive up for panoramic views all the way to Albania.

2. Explore Old Perithia A semi-abandoned mountain village frozen in time. Wander its stone alleys and discover a place both peaceful and profound.

3. Swim at Agios Spiridon Beach Family-friendly, shallow, and quiet. Ideal for a calm beach day away from the crowds.

4. Visit Canal d’Amour (Sidari) Famous for its rock formations and romantic legend. Swim through the channel or just relax on the small beach.

5. Go Snorkeling at Kassiopi The pebbly coves around Kassiopi are perfect for underwater exploring. Equipment rentals available in town.

6. Walk the Acharavi Beach Trail This long, wide beach stretches for over 7 kilometers and connects small beach bars, fishing docks, and sunset spots.

7. Kayak Along the North Coast Rent a kayak in Kassiopi or Agios Spiridon and paddle to remote beaches and sea caves. Keep an eye out for dolphins.

🛍 Shops & Local Finds – Traditional Crafts and Edible Souvenirs

1. Acharavi Market Street A cluster of small shops offering olive oil, handmade soaps, beachwear, and travel-friendly gifts.

2. Aromatica (Kassiopi) A herbal boutique with essential oils, natural cosmetics, and dried herbs grown on the island.

3. Peroulades Craft Co-op Locally woven textiles, handmade ceramics, and folk art from the north’s artisans. Worth the scenic drive.

4. Panagiotis’ Olive Oil Press (Episkepsi) Family-run, offering tastings and insights into the traditional olive oil-making process.

5. Nikos’ Wine Cellar (Old Perithia) Sample and buy local varietals aged in mountain air. The house red pairs perfectly with a sunset.

6. Spyridoula’s Honey & Herbs (Acharavi) A roadside stand with raw honey, dried mountain tea, and sweet preserves in glass jars.

7. Kassiopi Seaside Boutique A curated shop with resort wear, handmade jewelry, and local art prints. Great for unique gifts.

ℹ️ Need to Know

Getting There: The north coast is 45–60 minutes from Corfu Town by car. Public buses

run to Acharavi, Kassiopi, and Sidari, but for the villages and mountains, a rental car is

best.

Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early fall. Mornings are cooler in the mountains; plan

hikes early and beach afternoons late.

Local Tip: Avoid rushing through Old Perithia—stay for a meal and take time to explore

beyond the main square. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time.

🗓 7-Day Itinerary – Northern Corfu at a Natural Pace

Here’s how to spread out your days in the north—relax, hike, swim, and savor every view.

Day 1: Acharavi Welcome

● Stroll Acharavi Market Street

● Swim along the long beach trail

● Lunch at Maistro Taverna

● Gelato break at Dolce Freddo

● Sunset walk to a nearby pier

Day 2: Mountain Majesty

● Morning hike to Mount Pantokrator

● Explore Old Perithia Village

● Lunch at The Old Perithia Taverna

● Wine tasting at Nikos’ Cellar

● Return to Acharavi for rest

Day 3: Coastal Coves

● Head to Kassiopi for snorkeling

● Explore the old castle ruins

● Lunch at Savoura Restaurant

● Shop at Aromatica and the boutique

● Enjoy an evening drink by the harbor

Day 4: Nature & Simplicity

● Morning at Agios Spiridon Beach

● Kayak rental for cave and cove hopping

● Lunch at Nikos Taverna

● Stop by Spyridoula’s Honey stand

● Dinner at The Night Owl

Day 5: Love & Legends

● Day trip to Canal d’Amour

● Swim and cliff walk

● Picnic lunch or beach taverna

● Drive to Peroulades for craft shopping

● Sunset viewpoint and dinner

Day 6: Olive & Wine Day

● Visit Panagiotis’ Olive Press in Episkepsi

● Take a scenic village drive

● Lunch at Taverna Foros

● Light shopping or nap break

● Return to Acharavi for seaside dining

Day 7: Choose Your Favorite

● Revisit a favorite beach, hike, or restaurant

● Pack up your gifts and souvenirs

● Enjoy a final local meal with island wine

● Reflect on the views and memories