CORFÙ

Corfu or Kerkyra (from the Greek Κέρκυρα) is located in the Ionian Sea, opposite the coasts of Epirus, at the border between Greece and Albania. It is easily accessible both by sea, from Greece, Italy, Albania, and the former Yugoslavia, and by air (Kapodistrias International Airport). It is only a few nautical miles away from Albania, 18 miles from Igoumenitsa, 120 from Brindisi, and only 70 from Otranto. Due to its location, it has always been the natural bridge between Italy and Greece and is still the first stop for tourists heading to Greece by sea from Italy.

It has an area of 593 km² (the second largest among the Ionian Islands, after Cephalonia) and about 110,000 inhabitants.

The island is traversed by a gentle mountainous ridge that slopes gently to the west towards beautiful sandy bays, while to the east it is more rugged and wild. The highest mountain is called Pantokrator (906 meters) and dominates the northern part of the island. Corfu is perhaps the greenest island in Greece thanks to its winter rains, and its vegetation mainly includes olive trees and cypresses. Olive oil is indeed the island's main product along with cheeses, cured meats, and white wine. The soil of Corfu is very fertile, but from being essentially an agricultural island, Corfu now seems to have become primarily very touristic.

The island's capital, the old town of Kerkyra, is very characteristic, having remained almost unchanged over the centuries. However, several other villages on the island are worth a visit.

The sea is very beautiful: blue, transparent, and with magnificent sandy beaches.

The island of Corfu can be considered the capital of nautical tourism in the Ionian with many yachts and boats of all kinds.

The island certainly has an international imprint and, although heavily built up to accommodate tourists, still bears the marks of its rulers, especially the Venetians. Outside the tourist areas, for example in the lush hinterland, the true Greek atmosphere can still be felt.

According to mythology, Corfu was the last stop of Odysseus's long wanderings, landing in the bay of Ermones.

The island's inhabitants strive to preserve their traditions and folklore, particularly music and dance. Their typical products are textiles, carpets, woven straw, silverware, and jewelry.

The island's road network is good, and the various villages are all connected by a dense network of transport. Small boats transport tourists to the most characteristic places. There are several car and scooter rental services on the island.