Paleokastritsa

Paleokastritsa is one of the most stunningly beautiful areas on Corfu. The name means Little Old Castle, which refers to nearby Aggelokastro, a medieval castle on top of a massive rocky promontory. The main beach of Paleokastritsa is almost enclosed with cliffs on each side, and there are a number of caves to be visited by one of the many boats doing tours of the rocky coast. A forgotten NATO submarine base is set in one of the promontories, conspicuous by its massive doors and little railway leading in. On one side of the main beach, a long winding road leads up to a whitewashed Orthodox monastery. Dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary, it is one of the oldest on the island, dating back to the 13th century. Inside you can also find a small museum, full of religious and local historical artifacts, and from the peaceful gardens there are amazing views out across the cliffs and sea. As is quite common in the islands of the Ionian, the local legends also lay claim to Paleokastritsa being a place where Ulysseus was shipwrecked, and there is a rock in the sea which is supposed to be his vessel, turned to stone by Poseidon. In medieval times, pirates used to raid the area, so the locals moved to another village, perched high up above Paleokastritsa, called Lakones. This village due to its orientation has the most sunlight throught the year of any other place in Greece. As for the views, they are second to none. It is well worth a visit for the views alone. There is a very good aquarium in Paleokastritsa, they also have snakes and other reptiles, always a favorite with kids!