Your guide to the island of Corfu - past and present.

Explore Corfu Town and Corfu Island via the menu on the left.

A Brief History Of Corfu/Kerkyra.

The island's history is colourful and complex.  After its occupation by the Eretrians, a succession of others took possession including the Corinthians, Romans, Byzantines, Venetians, French and British.  All have left their mark on present day Corfu, both architecturally and culturally, although sadly many of the medieval and Venetian buildings were lost to Italian and German bombing during World War Two.

Flora and Fauna.

The olive tree.

The greater part of Corfu retains its lush green coverage of olive trees introduced and encouraged by the Venetians.  Olives are gathered every year for their oil, but it's only every second year that a really good crop is harvested. Nets are placed under the trees and the fallen olives are collected for crushing to extract the oil. The collection period can run from November through to March.

Flowers.

The island has over 400 species of wild flowers, most of which bloom during spring and early summer enlivening the landscape with a jewel box of colour.  However some species are not content with one flowering and appear again in the autumn.

Birds and Butterflies.

It is the abundance of  flowers that attract the numerous and colourful  butterflies and moths. A common butterfly seen around Corfu during the summer months is the Scarce Swallowtail.  The unusual wing shape and markings give the appearance that it is flying backwards.

The spring and autumn also sees the passage of migrant birds including the swallows and swifts whose return heralds the arrival of summer. It is not unusual to see the remains and markings of  nests from years past under the porches and eaves of the buildings.  It is said that the swallows return to last year's nesting place to start a new family.  Despite the mess made on the floor by the young birds the Corfiot people are very tolerant of their presence.

Getting Around Corfu.

On Foot.

Explore Corfu town and the many paths and tracks on and around Mount Pantokrator.  See Corfu Town page and our  Corfu walking holidays page.

Bus.

An excellent bus service covers the whole island.  All routes begin and terminate at the bus terminals in Corfu Town (main bus terminal and San Rocco Square)

Car/Bike Hire.

By far the best way to explore the island. We can arrange your hire car and have it waiting for you at the airport. Inquire with your booking and compare prices. You will find it a lot cheaper than booking outside  Greece.

Bicycle Hire.

For the more energetic, mountain bikes can be hired at Dassia near to Nissaki.  We can arrange delivery/collection to Aliki's Apartments.

Boat Hire.

Hire your boat in Nissaki, 1 day or 1 week.  It is the best way to view the beautiful north east coast.  15hp outboard engines-licence not required.  See 'Nissaki Beach Area' page/Boat Hire.