Paleokastritsa is not strictly speaking a village: it's a seaside resort developed thanks to tourism, stretching out along a winding road and a particularly indented coastline. The site is simply stunning, and the reason for Paleokastritsa's popularity.
Corfu's west coast is renowned for its many natural beauty spots, with jagged relief, sheer limestone cliffs, coves and beaches where the sea is crystal clear... the perfect summary of **Paleokastritsa **!
Given the splendour of the site, it's hardly surprising that over the years Paleokastritsa has become one of the most sought-after spots for holidaymakers on Corfu. The resort stretches along several rocky bays, with a succession of coves, each more attractive than the last. The rocky seabed, full of fish, is also a favourite with scuba diving enthusiasts.
Among Corfu's must-see resorts, Paleokastritsa is an excellent alternative place to stay on the island: with so many sites to discover and activities on offer**, it's easy to spend a few days or even the whole holiday here!
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Paleokastritsa Beach
- © SCStock / ShutterstockWelcome to Paleokastritsa
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Paleokastritsa
- © ZaitsevMaksym / ShutterstockAs is often the case in Greece, this is an ancient settlement. According to Homer's writings, Paleokastritsa was even the site of the palace of Alkinoos, king of the Phaeacians and father of Nausicaa, who took in a sickly Odysseus on the last leg of his Odyssey before returning to Ithaca.
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Paleokastritsa Beach
- © SCStock / ShutterstockToday, there is no trace of this mythological past: instead, Paleokastritsa specialises in the pleasures of the sea. Here, nature is superb, as is the colour of the water. Several beaches and coves are a delight for sun-seekers, while the resort's cafés and restaurants provide a lively atmosphere throughout the season.
An excellent base for exploring the north and west of Corfu, just 25km from the capital Kerkyra and its airport, Paleokastritsa also has plenty to hold you over for a few days...
Manganas Studios
Just 5 minutes from Paleokastritsa beach.Things to see and do in Paleokastritsa: a packed programme
There's much more to Paleokastritsa than just lazing on the beach, even if these hours of relaxation do take centre stage. On the sea side, excursion boats take you to discover the caves in the area, underwater reliefs that are also renowned in Corfu as excellent diving spots.
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The coastline around Paleokastritsa
- © Sodel Vladyslav / ShutterstockThe coast around Paleokastritsa is dotted with some of Corfu's finest beaches, either by water taxi or via paths that are not always easy to access. These include the photogenic Rovinia beach, the pretty Limni, the more secretive Iliodoros, and the spectacular Chomi ("Paradise Beach") with its sheer white limestone cliffs.
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Chomi, aka Paradise Beach
- © Havoc / ShutterstockYou'll be spoilt for choice by the sea, but also on land, for example on the heights of Angelokastro, this ancient Byzantine fortress (13th century) which, like a lookout, overlooks an impressive seascape. Facing due west, the sunset is impressive. Another remarkable site is the Orthodox monastery of Paleokastritsa (Panagia Theotokos, dedicated to the Virgin Mary), with its church and icons, in the heart of a verdant setting above the blue waves.
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Angelocastro
- © mairu10 / ShutterstockPaleokastritsa is also the starting point for a popular hiking trail: the secret path to Lakones. This ancient kalderimi, a paved path used by mules, climbs quietly through olive groves to reach the village of Lakones (a few good tavernas on site), peacefully established overlooking the resort (1h30 a/r, 250m ascent). In summer, the song of the cicadas is deafening!
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Lakones
- © Serenity-H / Shutterstock👉 Paleokastritsa, practical information
How do I get to Paleokastritsa?
- It takes 35 minutes by car from Corfu town. Car hire is recommended to explore the surrounding area more easily.
- By bus, several times a day from Corfu, with the green buses (in English).
Explore the beaches and caves around Paleokastritsa
Several excursion boats depart from the port of Paleokastritsa every day. You can also hire your own boat (including boats without a licence).
- Corfu Explore Boats
- Triton Marine Tours
Scuba diving in Paleokastritsa
The spots around Paleokastritsa are reputed to be among the most interesting on Corfu.
- Achilleon Diving Center
- Poseidon Diving Center (in Ermones, 25min from Paleokastritsa)
Visit Angelokastro Castle:
Great for the site but also for the view: aim for the end of the day!
- Access: 25 minutes' drive from Paleokastritsa via the villages of Lakones and Krini. Parking on site.
- Times: 10am-6pm, closed on Tuesdays
- Admission: €3
Visit the Paleokastritsa monastery:
Tip: come in advance of the group visits that invade the monastery during the day. Early in the morning if possible.
- Access: on foot or a 5-minute drive from the centre of Paleokastritsa
- Times: daily, 7am-1pm and 3pm-8pm
- Admission: free
- Correct dress required! No shorts, short skirts or swimming costumes!