We’ve made a delightful habit of returning to the stunning north coast of Corfu. Over the past few years, we’ve explored this charming locale three times, each visit revealing new layers of its beauty.
Our affection for the north east coast has particularly blossomed, especially around the Kalami Bay area. This tranquil spot has become a familiar favorite.
Picture evenings filled with waterfront dinners, where your toes grace the pebbles while the rust-hued sun sets behind the majestic Albanian mountains. Imagine taking a water taxi to a secluded bay where a family-run taverna awaits, the brilliant green waters embraced by lush hills of pines and olive trees.
It’s easy to understand why we’re drawn to it.
Convenience adds to the charm of Corfu holidays. Flexible flight options from the UK make traveling simple, and both package deals and villa rentals stand out as more budget-friendly compared to other Greek destinations.
Where to Stay in Northern Corfu
On two prior trips, we settled in Kalami, a picturesque bay featuring a blend of quaint traditional tavernas alongside modern dining spots, like Callao Corfu and The White House Restaurant.
If you’ve watched the series The Durrells, the name Kalami Bay might ring a bell. The White House Restaurant occupies the historic home of author Lawrence Durrell.
What draws us to this area is its relaxed vibe. It may not be overly trendy, but the selection of waterfront eateries ensures each meal is memorable.
Local amenities, including two supermarkets and a tour office, lie just behind the beach. Plus, the water taxis from the charming piers enable exploration without the need for a car through winding mountain roads.
On our first visit, we enjoyed a carefree retreat at the adults-only San Antonio Resort. For the second trip, we opted for one of the traditional villas scattered across the hills. Regardless of the choice, every lodging option offers breathtaking views—a hallmark of Kalami that never fails to captivate.
Must-See Spots in North Corfu
The highlight of exploring North Corfu is discovering its enchanting secluded bays and stunning swimming spots.
Getting around is straightforward with various options. You can join a boat tour from Kassiopi, rent a boat from San Stefano, take a water taxi from popular tourist areas like Paleokastritsa, or simply hire a car, which is our preferred method.
Some beautiful locations worth visiting include:
Bataria Beach in Kassiopi
Situated on a peninsula on the north-west tip, Bataria Beach boasts crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming even late into September.
The beach offers sun loungers for hire and nearby parking, making it a convenient choice for those driving around.
Don’t forget water shoes—those pebbles can be tough on the feet!
For a midday meal, Kassiopi hosts various restaurants overlooking the picturesque harbor. You could then work off your lunch with a stroll around the nearby Byzantine castle ruins.
Liapades & Rovinia Beach
Liapades Beach, located on the north-west coast near Paleokastritsa, offers a unique Greek experience. Surrounded by tall cliffs, its emerald waters create a postcard-perfect setting, though it can become busy during peak season.
The rustic charm combines beautifully with affordable €4 gyros offered at beachfront eateries.
Parking can be tricky, so climbers have the option of taking a water taxi from Liapades to nearby Rovinia Beach—a quick and scenic journey.
Many prefer to hike to Rovinia from Liapades for stellar views, but we opted against it due to having a little one on our trip.
Porto Timoni
To the north of Paleokastritsa lie the twin beaches of Porto Timoni, accessible from a breathtaking viewpoint. Although we haven’t made it there yet, it’s on our agenda for next time. The steep hike from the hilltop village of Afionas isn’t toddler-friendly, but it’s sure to be worth the effort.
Cape Drastis
Located at the island’s north-western tip, Cape Drastis is a breathtaking viewpoint we stumbled upon during our stay at Ikos Odisia. The scenic drive is straightforward, and while parking may be limited, the natural beauty is easily reachable within minutes.
Canal D’Amour
Corfu’s Canal D’Amour, or Channel of Love, features extraordinary lunar-like rock formations creating stunning turquoise waters. Although it can feel crowded, it’s an ideal quick dip to refresh after visiting Cape Drastis.
Parking is available close to the beach at a flat rate, so be sure to have cash on hand.
Ultimately, we favor staying on the north east coast of Corfu for its picturesque traditional tavernas and charming villas. Yet, venturing to the north-west is essential to appreciate the dramatic coastline and exceptional sunsets.
Old Perithia
Consider visiting Old Perithia, Corfu’s oldest village that dates back to the 14th century. This abandoned gem has a fascinating history and has been revitalized in recent years, featuring charming tavernas and quaint shops among ancient ruins and churches.
It’s a lovely locale for hiking or simply enjoying a traditional Corfiat meal.
Corfu Town
No trip to Corfu is complete without exploring Corfu Town, even if it’s just for a few hours before your flight. Positioned strategically on the east coast, the town has seen various influences throughout its history, reflected in its eclectic architecture.
Consider joining a walking tour to better appreciate its UNESCO World Heritage significance, or wander freely, enjoying a gyros while soaking in the atmosphere.
For a refreshing break, don’t miss the chic beach club, Iambari Corfu, where cocktails and swimming await.
Day Trip Options from North Corfu
North Corfu offers an abundance of day trip opportunities. Options include boat excursions to nearby islands like Paxos and Antipaxos, excursions to the Greek mainland in Parga, or even short visits to Albania.
We had plans for a day trip to Paxos and Antipaxos, but inclement weather resulted in cancellations last September. It’s definitely on our agenda for the next trip.
Dining Highlights in North Corfu
One of our favorite activities in Corfu is sampling a new beachfront taverna each evening. From Kalami, a taxi boat to the coastal eateries in Agni provides picturesque dining and the thrill of returning home under the stars post-dinner.
Our preferred places to indulge in North Corfu include:
Callao Corfu—a chic beachfront restaurant with a modern Mediterranean menu and stunning sunset views. Don’t miss their unique Corfu Spritz, crafted with kumquat liqueur and ginger beer.
The White House—renowned for its sophisticated ambiance and historical significance as the Durrell residence. Families are made to feel welcome here, whether for a meal or casual coffee and swimming.
Dimitri’s Restaurant—nestled in the hills above Kalami, offering do-it-yourself gyros with stunning views. Their free transfer service adds a touch of hospitality.
Taverna Agni—our top choice in Agni Bay, celebrated for its seafood and BBQ specialties. A boat ride back home, while darkened by night, adds a sense of adventure to the meal.
Kalami Beach Taverna—ideal for immersive traditional Greek dining by the sea in Kalami.
Cavo Barbaro—this family-run hidden gem on secluded Avlaki Beach boasts repeat customers for good reason. The views here are equally delightful as the desserts.
Eucalyptus Seaside Taverna—a charming establishment, operating as a family-run olive press, and serving local ingredients. It comes highly recommended from our generous hosts.
It’s wise to reserve tables online if possible, even just on the day of dining. If you plan on utilizing water taxis or free transfers, giving advance notice is also recommended.
Accommodation Recommendations in North Corfu
On our initial visit, we enjoyed our stay at the adults-only San Antonio Resort in beautiful Kalami Bay. For our more recent trip, we rented the family-friendly Artist’s House at Villa Rastoni.
This two-bedroom villa, nestled in the hills between Kassiopi and Kalami, boasts spectacular views from its expansive outdoor terrace and stunning infinity pool. Its charming traditional Greek decor provides comfort for families.
While the road to the villa can be a challenge for the faint-hearted driver, local taxi services can be arranged, though that may add to expenses.
This summer, we took a different approach by booking a luxury all-inclusive resort—the newly opened Ikos Odisia. Merging stunning modern architecture with the surrounding mountains, this jewel of a property provided the most relaxing holiday experience ever.
For families exploring Corfu, here are top accommodation suggestions:
Ikos Odisia or Ikos Dassia—luxury all-inclusive hotels that promise a memorable stay.
MarBella Corfu—a luxurious clifftop hotel with breathtaking views.
Domes of Corfu, Autograph Collection—a chic, minimalist hotel ideal for those desiring a modern experience in Glyfada.
For couples looking for a romantic escape:
Angsana Corfu Resort & Spa—offering luxury with stunning infinity pool views.
Cook’s Club Corfu—a trendy adults-only hotel in Gouvia.
Don’t miss our reviews for further insights on places to stay and things to do in the enchanting region of Corfu. From its quaint villages to ethereal beaches, this island has a special allure that beckons you back time and again.
