Paleokastritsa (or Paleo as it’s know to the locals) is a beautiful and relaxing family resort located in the Northwest corner of Corfu. Generally regarded as the islands top beauty spot it comprises a series a bays cradled by steep wooded mountains.
Paleo offers the best of what Corfu and Greece has to offer, the uniquely Greek warmth and welcome, good beaches and a qu iet laid back atmosphere. The resort is still owned by the local monastic order the resort has been sympathetically developed and retains a very relaxed and laid back feel. The locals are genuinely and rightly proud of their resort and the majority live either in Paleo or in Lakones which is the mountain village which overlooks the resort. They are very welcoming and friendly especially to Children. You will be welcome to browse in the shops and stalls with little or no pressure to buy.Whilst the night life is generally quiet there are a number of small bars and family run restaurants and tavernas. Most of the tavernas offer excellent authentic Greek food. – You will not find a Sunday Roast or loud discos here! All the bars and restaurants are family friendly and you will often see the children of the owners mingling with the guests.For those seeking a more romantic evening there are some excellent restaurants that enjoy exceptional locations overlooking the sea. The beaches around Paleo are a mixture of sand and shingle. They are very clean. The sea also is very clean and safe for swimming/snorkelling etc.A wide range of watersports are available form the beaches including regular boat rides to the caves and grotto’s that lie in the rocks surrounding the resort. There is also a taxi boat service that will take you (and pick you up!) to deserted beaches that are inaccessible by land. We would recommend that you explore the local area by foot. Alternatively car and bike hire can be arranged by your hosts at very competitive prices. In addition there is a regular (and reliable) bus service to Corfu Town and stops along the way.
Local places of interest:
Moni Theotokou Monastery
This Monastery which dates from the 13th century sits proudly on the headland overlooking Paleo. It’s inhabitants still live a monastic existence and it offers a peaceful and idyllic excursion away from the beach.
Bella Vista
The Bella Vista is generally reckoned to be in the top 10 views in Europe. Situated at the top of the mountain over looking Paleo it offers astounding views of the bay and coastline. It is easily accessible by road and by foot for the more energetic. You can also enjoy a swim and a drink/lunch in the Golden Fox restaurant that sits at the very top of the mountain.
Angelokastro
The Angelokastro is a ruined 13th Century fortress situated on top of the cliffs overlooking Paleo. It was used to shelter locals from the attempts of the Turks and latterly Pirates to overrun this part of Corfu.
Lakones
Lakones is the mountain village form which many of the locals in Paleo originate and where many of them still live during the winter months. It’s winding roads may not be for nervous drivers but it is well worth a visit. Despite it’s locality to Paleo itself you will find an authentic Greek lifestyle that has changed little over the years. |