Springtime in Corfu

May 7, 2024 
Corfu, Greece: Day 15 
Paleokastritsa to Agios Geiorgos Bay 
Total distance walked: 6.5 miles 

The Sun Princess pulled into Corfu Cruise Port early in the morning. The lush island of Corfu lies in the Ionian Sea east of Italy and southwest of Albania.

This morning, I felt good despite a lingering cough. Our adventure today promised to be quite challenging. By day’s end, we will have hiked 6.5 miles through ancient olive orchards, winding our way among Greek villages, and finally reaching the crystal-clear blue sea for a refreshing swim.

We met our guide—Hans from Germany—at the port and a group of about 25 other shipmates. A bus took us into the mountains of northwest Corfu. Corfu had a distinct feel compared to the other Greek Islands we had recently visited (Santorini and Mykonos) and Athens. It resembled home with its green hills and quaint towns. I was already fond of it before even stepping off the bus.

The driver dropped us on the side of a street above a village known as Paleokastritsa. This colorful town is known for its six bays and rugged cliffs. It is often referred to as the Capri of Greece.

We made our way uphill, walking along the blacktopped streets and up stone stairs through the tiny village of Lakones.

I felt a twinge of disappointment that our walk so far had been confined to the narrow road—dodging small cars and large buses—rather than a trail.

But then, Hans veered off the road and led us downhill into an orchard. We strolled through the undulating hills dotted with olive trees passing old hand-built rock walls.

He told us about the olive farms. To facilitate olive harvesting—which he said happens in November—the farmers had placed nets around the base of the trees.

He explained that the wood from these trees is valuable due to its hardness and density. While shopping in Greece, we noticed numerous small items and decorative objects crafted from olive wood.

Climbing out of the orchard, our first break was in Bella Vista at a sweet little coffee shop. It had an open-air balcony, a perfect spot to relax and quench our thirst.

After our refreshments, the day was spent meandering through the orchards, passing from one village to another.

We eventually took a second break at a charming, family-owned gift shop and restaurant in the village of Krini. Sitting outside, we enjoyed tasty Greek food like flavorful olives, Dolmas, and a glass of red wine. It was just what we needed to recharge for the rest of our journey.

As we followed the trail along the cliff’s edge, we descended a steep rocky path toward the Bay of Agios Geiorgos.

Springtime in Corfu was stunning—the wildflowers were in full bloom! Despite the strain on our knees during the winding downhill hike, the breathtaking scenery made it all worthwhile.

At last, we descended to the bottom, where Chris treated himself to a swim in the Ionian Sea after our long hike. I sat on the beach watching the waves. 

It was a splendid day—one of my favorites, second only to the day we spent at the Vatican.