A true taste of Paleokastritsa!
Paleokastritsa is a stunningly beautiful area of Corfu, Greece, located 23 km on the northwest coast of the island, on a rocky peninsula. It is known for its stunning landscape and clear blue-turquoise bays, coves, olive tree forests, and lush green hillsides. The picturesque village is a popular destination for tourists, offering a range of dining options, shopping, activities, attractions and modern beach facilities. The beaches of Paleokastritsa are some of the most beautiful in Corfu and the area boasts many pebbled and sandy beaches with crystal clear waters that are perfect for swimming and snorkelling and take a back seat to the captivating natural scenery.
Palaiokastritsa
Palaiokastritsa with its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural history, provides numerous options for nature and history lovers. For those who enjoy hiking and exploring, there are several rural tracks and mountain footpaths in the area, as well as the option to rent a bike/car or pedalos to explore the coast. The village is also home to a thirteenth-century monastery, a must-visit for history enthusiasts and a 6 km drive away from Angelokastro castle, one of the most impressive ruins on Corfu island. There are several impressive caves in the area that can be visited on a taxi tour, including the well known Nafsika Caves and St. Nicholas Caves.Visitors can also take advantage of water sport facilities such as water skiing, parasailing, canoeing, diving and sea pedal boats, among others. Palaiokastritsa is an idyllic destination for those who appreciate the underwater world and activities such as snorkeling and diving. In addition to its natural beauty, Palaiokastritsa also offers a good selection of restaurants, local tavernas, cafes, bars, and shops. Overall, Palaiokastritsa provides a perfect mix of outdoor adventure, relaxation, and cultural experiences, making it an ideal destination for travellers seeking an unforgettable holiday.
Angelokastro
Paleokastritsa, meaning “old castle” in Greek, is named after the nearby castle of Angelokastro, known as “Angel Castle.” The origin of its name is somewhat uncertain. According to some historians, in 1214 Michael I Komnenos, despot of Epirus, conquered Corfu and after his passing, Michael II Komnenos strengthened the region by constructing the castle and named it after his father, Angelokastro. The impressive Angelokastro is situated just 6 km north of Paleokastritsa and is considered one of the most magnificent ruins on the island. A 30-minute walk from the car park leads to the castle, which boasts stunning, almost circular views of the surrounding sea and land. This is why the Byzantine builders and later Venetian developers chose the site as a crucial fortification, resisting invasions from Naples’ Angevins, the Venetians, and the Turks over the years. On clear days, the castle offers views of Corfu Town, which is 25 km away. Although much of the fort has been destroyed, remnants of the main walls remain, offering a glimpse into its history and strategic significance.
Palaiokastritsa’s Monastery
Palaiokastritsa Monastery, also known as Theotokos Monastery in Corfu is a historic religious site that dates back to the 13th century. The Greek Orthodox monastery was founded in 1225 by the Byzantine Emperor Michael VIII Palaiologos and is dedicated to the Virgin Mary. It is a complex of several buildings with whitewashed walls and blue-domed roofs, including courtyards, archways, monks’ cells, oil presses, and storerooms, a gift shop and a small church, a really calming and spiritual experience. The museum at the monastery has a collection of icons, Greek Orthodox ritual items and other interesting artefacts, such as a whale skeleton. It is a prime illustration of Greek monastic architecture in its setting. The highlight of the monastery is the beautiful paved gardens, which offer spectacular views of the coastline. In the courtyard you will also encounter a wishing well. Visitors are encouraged to take a leisurely stroll through the gardens, enjoy the views from the hilltop, walk to the “cross” with the spectacular coastline views and reflect on the rich cultural heritage of Paleokastritsa, Corfu and Greece. The Monastery of Theotokos in Paleokastritsa is definitely worth a visit.
Lakones- Bakalokafenio
The region surrounding Paleokastritsa offers several exhilarating tours, especially for those visiting the area on vacation. One nearby location to explore is the village of Lakones, one of the oldest villages in Corfu, which is accessible via one of the paths connecting it to Paleokastritsa. A significant portion of the village is not visible as it was originally built behind the hill to avoid detection by pirates. The village, with its traditional architecture, offers stunning coastal views of Paleokastritsa and the Ionian Sea.
A must-visit before continuing your journey to the summit of Mount Araklis or heading back from Aggelokastro is Bakalokafenio, our family-owned traditional multi-storied cafe-bakery. It features a veranda with an awe-inspiring view of Paleokastritsa’s coastline. The owner, who is also a baker, prepares scrumptious sourdough bread, pies, cakes, cookies, and pastries. The desserts are made from scratch and are divine, the snacks are delicious, and everything is of the highest quality, freshly made, and enjoyable. The staff is friendly and always willing to help, making it an excellent place for a coffee break, refreshments and fresh baked goods.
Staying true to tradition, the multi-storied café bakery continues to serve the village of Lakones and also houses a mini market that offers traditional Greek products, fruits, vegetables, baked goods, and necessities.
