Hiking in Corfu: The Corfu Trail and Best Day Walks

1. Mount Pantokrator via Old Perithia   Challenging

8 km return · 4–5 hours · 500 m ascent

Corfu’s highest point at 906 m and its single most rewarding hike. On clear days the view from the summit covers the Greek mainland, the Albanian coast, Paxos and Antipaxos to the south, and — on exceptional mornings — the Italian coast across the Adriatic.

The most atmospheric approach starts from Old Perithia, the abandoned medieval village on the northern slopes. Once home to over 1,200 people, most moved to the coast during the 20th century, leaving behind stone houses slowly returning to the hillside. Several buildings have been restored as tavernas (the food, incidentally, is excellent). From the village, follow ancient footpaths through scrubland up to the monastery at the summit. Start before 8 AM to beat the heat. Carry all your water.

2. Angelokastro Fortress Walk   Moderate

5 km circuit · 2–3 hours · 250 m ascent

Angelokastro — the “Castle of the Angels” — is a 13th-century Byzantine fortress perched on a rocky peak above Paleokastritsa. The walk up follows a path that has been in continuous use for nearly 800 years. The fortress itself is well-preserved, free to enter, and contains two small churches with faded frescoes and rainwater cisterns still visible in the walls.

The view from the top is a panorama of both coasts, the deep blue bays of Paleokastritsa below, and the mountains of mainland Greece on the horizon. Combine with the nearby villages of Krini and Makrades (both good for a lunch stop) for a perfect half-day.

3. Pelekas to Sinarades (Corfu Trail section)   Moderate

10 km one way · 3–4 hours · 200 m ascent

One of the most enjoyable sections of the full Corfu Trail. Start at Pelekas (famous for Kaiser’s Throne sunset viewpoint), descend through olive groves where some trees are 500 years old, pass through Kompitsi and Kastellani, and end in Sinarades with its small folklore museum and taverna-lined square. Arrange a taxi back, or take the bus into Corfu Town and back up.

4. Korission Lagoon Nature Walk   Easy

6 km loop · 2–3 hours · Flat

Corfu’s flattest rewarding walk. Lake Korission is a coastal lagoon in the south of the island, a Natura 2000 protected area and one of the most important wetlands in the Ionian. Walk along the sandy strip that separates the lagoon from the sea, past cedar forests and dune systems, through a landscape of wild lilies, orchids and sea daffodils.

The birdwatching is remarkable — flamingos, herons, cormorants, egrets and dozens of wading species depending on the season. The spring migration in April–May is spectacular. End with a swim at Halikounas Beach, one of the quietest sand beaches on the island.

5. Old Perithia Ghost Village Walk   Easy

4 km loop · 2 hours · 100 m ascent

Even if you are not climbing Pantokrator, Old Perithia deserves an afternoon. The oldest village on Corfu, perched at 450 m on the mountain’s northern flank, once held over 130 houses, 8 churches and more than a thousand inhabitants. Today a handful of residents remain. Many buildings stand as atmospheric ruins; several have been beautifully restored as tavernas serving some of the best traditional food on the island. Walk the lanes, eat slowly, listen to the silence.

6. Paleokastritsa Coastal Path   Moderate

7 km one way · 3–4 hours · 300 m ascent

Links Paleokastritsa to the fishing village of Liapades via goat-paths along the clifftops above some of Corfu’s most spectacular coastline. You look straight down into turquoise coves that are only accessible by boat. The path passes above Rovinia Beach — hidden, gorgeous, worth the detour down for a swim. In spring the wildflowers through the macchia scrubland are extraordinary. End with lunch in Liapades.