A Pocket Guide to Corfu, Greece

From time-honoured towns and stretches of golden sand beaches to boho-chic hotels and beautiful independent boutiques, here is the ultimate handbook for a sun-drenched week of Greek fun

If someone asked us to describe what it feels like to fall in love, we'd quickly tell them that a trip to the Greek island of Corfu would cure their curiosity. A sun-soaked landscape where time-hewn towns, family-run tavernas and clusters of whitewashed villas are framed by golden beaches and tangled olive groves. The true magic of this sleepy settlement is found in the warmth and passion of its people, whose deep sense of pride and love for their tradition and culture-rich heritage is bound to rub off on you too.

Let's be real: we know Corfu has a clichéd reputation. We'll have all heard tales of someone's booze-fuelled antics in the south of the island - Kavos, the spotlight is on you. While whispers of the island's northeast cosmopolitan corners will likely reference Hollywood icons on vacation. But all that chatter merely distracts the crowds from Corfu's many lesser-trodden pockets which offer a genuinely restorative getaway.

A destination that seamlessly marries old-school charm with contemporary flair, tag along with us as we stroll through a patchwork of narrow passageways to uncover crumbling buildings, design-driven hotels, beautiful boutiques and romantically rustic squares. These are our favourite places to eat, stay and play when in town.

Mediterranean magic: our Corfu guide

hotel

Domes Miramare

An hour’s drive southeast of Corfu town, the elegant enclave that is Domes Miramare has been welcoming stylish-travellers since 1962. Once the former home of the Onassis family, the property underwent a multi-million refurb in 2018. Today, guests can enjoy the tranquil, sea-facing pool framed by centuries-old olive trees or take a private champagne-service yacht along the sparkling coast. The hotel’s 113 bedrooms are positioned a stone’s throw away from the private pebble beach, each flaunting a minimalist design in marble and wood. Feeling in an indulgent mood? Book one of the suites featuring a private pool or hot tub.

Address

Miramare Beach, Moraitika, 491 00

The Olivar Suites

hotel

The Olivar Suites

If we were to dream up a space aimed at interior lovers, it would look something like this. Set in the grounds of a former 18th-century olive mill, The Olivar Suites beautifully blends traditional features with a contemporary touch. Outside, cobblestone walls frame a whitewashed facade, and overgrown palm trees mask the midday sun. Inside, rooms (120 to be precise) are decorated with rattan furnishings, statement pendant lights, walnut-wooden details and walls clad with abstract prints. Despite the property’s size, there is an incredibly intimate vibe here. Slip downstairs to the in-house Aegeo Spa for a traditional Cretan massage, or opt for a deep cleanse with organic olive oil products in the enormous walk-in showers. Foodies, however, should make a daily trip to in-house restaurant Flya, where a seasonally sourced menu honours Corfu’s culinary roots.

Address

Messonghi, 490 90

hotel

Acanthus Blue Hotel

Townhouses are having a serious moment, and we for one are absolutely here for it. Slap-bang in the centre of Corfu town, this unassuming neoclassical building makes for the ultimate city crash pad. Eight light-filled bedrooms are made cosy with shuttered windows dressed in earth-tone linens, and chunky king-sized beds bordered by softly-lit lamps. While you won’t find any spa facilities, the outdoor courtyard is a sanctuary of relaxation, thanks to wildflowers and sea-facing views. Mornings are best enjoyed with a stroll along the waterfront, before skipping into town to pick up a fresh pastry.

Address

3rd Parados, Mitropolitou Athanasiou St, 491 00

hotel

Akrotiri Beach Hotel

Perched on a hilltop overlooking the shimmering waters of Paleokastritsa’s Akrotiri Beach, this boho-chic bolthole comes with four in-house bars and one seriously impressive restaurant. Our favourite is Amo Ammo Beach Bar, where wicker chairs, braided parasols and plush bean bags are on standby for the ultimate sundowner hangout. Of course, the bedrooms are just as appealing, with private balconies and sleek bathrooms finished with marble tiles, gold-plated taps and a rainforest-style shower.

Address

Palaiokastritsas, Paleokastritsa, 490 83