When people choose a Greek island for their summer holidays, they often do so because they want to relax at the beach, party in the evening, and eat delicious food.
However, some Greek islands are also ideal for sports lovers. With plenty of water activities to choose from and various hiking trails for all fitness levels, there is no better way to keep in shape while having tons of fun on your vacation.
In particular, Corfu is a paradise for walkers. While there are plenty of things to see and do in Corfu, hiking is one of the most popular activities here. Hikers will find serene olive groves, mild temperatures, and hidden paths leading to remote beaches where they can have a refreshing break. Walking in Corfu is one of the best ways to explore this fascinating island.
If you’re intrigued by this idea, this is the article for you. We will discuss why Corfu is a paradise for hikers, give you a few trail ideas to try on your vacation, and end our post with useful tips to make the most of your time on the island.
Why Corfu is a Paradise for Walkers
Greece is home to many islands, so choosing one for your vacation can be overwhelming. However, if your main goal on your holiday is walking, Corfu is the place to go. Here, you will find diverse landscapes, plenty of gorgeous beaches and little villages where to take a break, and trails for all fitness levels.
Most importantly, this island is home to the Corfu Trail. This walking path can be completed in about ten days by both experienced hikers and beginners alike. It goes from the very north to the south of the island and requires hikers to walk 7 to 14 miles daily.
The route is marked by yellow metal plaques with a CT sign and a black arrow. This means you can choose any segment of the trail for a great hiking day.
Thanks to the Corfu Trail, over the years this island has become a top choice for hikers. Here, you will find reasonably priced hotels, family-run guesthouses, and camping options.
Best Walking Routes in Corfu
Zwillingsbucht Porto Timoni Loop
This walking Corfu trail is a good option for all hikers. It is 2.40 miles long and can be completed in about 1.45 hours. It has an elevation of 575 feet and passes through gorgeous beaches and ancient houses.
The loop starts in Afiona, a small charming town where, with a bit of luck, you may find some local stores or restaurants open to buy some water or a few snacks to enjoy along the way. The first viewpoint on the trail is over the stunning Gemini Bay. If you have time, you may even decide to enjoy a swim in the Mediterranean Sea and chill a bit or have a bite to eat before continuing your adventure.
You can either stop at Porto Timoni beach for a refreshing swim or continue to a nearby, much less crowded beach. This is a great option if you prefer to avoid crowds.
The last stop on the trail is Chapel Agios Stylianos. This modest church carved in the rock is located in a great spot with amazing views of the island and the Mediterranean Sea. You can now head back to Afiona where you can get some well-deserved food in one of the many restaurants in the area. While you may not find the best restaurants in Corfu here, you surely will have plenty of authentic food.
- Length: 2.40 miles
- Time: 1h 45 m
- Elevation: 575 feet
- Along the way: Afiona, Chapel Agios Stylianos, Porto Timoni beach
Kavos to Arkoudilas Beach Loop
This hike starts in the city of Kavos, the southernmost seaside village in Corfu. This is one of the best Corfu walks if you want to explore local nature, enjoy a swim on a gorgeous beach, and start and end your day in a tourist town with all sorts of comforts.
After a few hours, you will arrive at your first stop, the Monastery of the Blessed Mary. Dating back to the 17th century, this site served as the home of a group of monks until the 19th century but was later abandoned.
You can then continue to Arkoudilas Beach. This is a nudist beach, but it’s often empty, and you won’t find huge crowds. Arkoudilas Beach is a great spot for a break and a refreshing swim.
The trail continues along the coast and returns to the hiking path for a relatively steep climb to Arkoudillas viewpoint. You will then return to Kavos, passing by an artificial lake called Mischopoulos Lake.
- Length: 6.2 miles
- Time: 3 hours
- Elevation: 823 feet
- Along the way: Monastery of the Blessed Mary, Arkoudilas Beach, Mischopoulos Lake.
Cape Drastis Loop
We now head to the north area of the island for another loop. This trail passes by stunning views over the Adriatic Sea, serene olive groves, and beautiful coastlines.
The walking trail begins near the town of Peroulades. Here, you’ll find a few restaurants and stores. If you have time, you can check out some local churches, such as the Church of Agios Nikolaos and the Lady of the Angels.
The trail’s highlight is obviously Cape Drastis. This stunning area is renowned for its beautiful white cliffs and gorgeous rocks emerging from the sea. Once you reach this famous site, make sure to stop for a swim to refresh yourself after your long hike and enjoy the sea.
You can then head back to Peroulades, where you can check out Loggas Beach to watch a beautiful sunset or have a bite to eat accompanied by a glass of wine or a cold beer at one of the local restaurants.
- Length: 4.2 miles
- Time: 2 hours
- Elevation: 800 feet
- Along the way: Church of Agios Nikolaos, Cape Drastis, Peroulades
Mount Pantokrator Loop
Last on our list is the Mount Pantokrator Loop. This is the ideal walking Corfu trail for those who have always preferred the mountains to the sea.
The hike starts in the village of Strinilas. Just follow the orange signs, and you’ll soon find yourself on the top of Mount Pantokrator, the highest peak in Corfu.
Here, you can explore the Monastery of Pantokrator, founded in the first half of the 14th century. This site was the home of collegiate monks and can still be visited today.
The loop then heads back to Strinilas, passing through the Pantokratoras Ipsilos Wildlife Sanctuary. Keep in mind that if you have arachnophobia, this may not be the most suitable hike for you, as several hikers reported the presence of several spiders along the route.
- Length: 7.2 miles
- Time: 3h 30m
- Elevation: 1280 feet
- Along the way: Strinilas, Monastery of Pantokrator
Corfu Walking Guide: What You Need to Know
Here are a few final tips for a vacation full of walking and trekking on Corfu.
When To Hike In Corfu?
The best time to hike in Corfu is between May and October. This is the ideal period to make the most of the local trails and enjoy a swim whenever you find a suitable beach along the way.
While you may be tempted to book in the winter to avoid mass tourism, you need to keep in mind that the island changes completely during these months. Finding open Corfu luxury villas, modest hotels, and good restaurants becomes a real challenge, so we suggest you avoid the months from November to April.
Ideally, plan your trip in May, June, September, or October to avoid the huge crowds of tourists and the hottest months of the year, when hiking can become challenging, especially at midday.
Do You Need A Guide To Hike In Corfu?
A Corfu walking guide can help you find the best paths, the most remote beaches, and hidden churches, leveling up your trip. However, this is unnecessary, especially if you’re an experienced hiker.
The island has no dangerous path as elevation remains low, and animals are mostly docile. So, while this may be a good way to learn more about the island, you can easily explore independently.
Transportation In Corfu
Corfu has plenty of transportation options for tourists. City and intercity buses, taxis, boats, and car rental agencies are available. Which transportation method works best for you depends on your budget and where your hike is located.
Having your designated drivers is definitely a pricey option compared to the others, but it will allow plenty of flexibility. The same goes if you decide to rent a car. Public buses are obviously cheaper but may not allow you to reach all the destinations you planned to visit.
Final Tips
The sun is strong on Corfu, even if it doesn’t seem like it. The wind may give you the impression that temperatures are not so high, but if you don’t put sunscreen on, you will regret it once you’re back at your accommodation.
Bring plenty of water with you to avoid dehydration. Also, trash bins are rare, so you will have to take your garbage with you when you are hiking.
Invest in good hiking shoes and always bring your swimming suit. You never know when you will find a nice beach where to take a break.
Not everyone speaks English on the island. Especially when hiking to a remote location, the chances of finding someone who will understand you become extremely low. Learning a few basic words in Greek will help you a great deal. Lastly, always bring cash, as not all places accept cards.