Corfu is a Magnificent Puzzle for Your Eyes
Greetings to all travel enthusiasts! Today we shall visit the Ionian Sea and one of the most beautiful Greek islands. Corfu is an island that will bewitch, captivate and leave you shipwrecked just like Odysseus. It is a magnificent puzzle of culture, architecture, castles, museums, monasteries, superb beaches, traditional villages and amazing resorts.
Achilleion Palace is a lavish villa in the region of Gastouri that was constructed in 1890 by Austria-Hungarian Queen Elisabeth after the suicide of her son. The legendary princess Sisi fell in love with Corfu and the location so she decided to build a majestic Palace to use as a sanctuary from her grief. It is named after the Greek hero Achilles due the Queen’s admiration for his courage to defy the Gods. A great statue of the hero stands tall in the gardens overlooking the city and guarding the villa. The Palace is filled with luxurious details, beautiful paintings and marble statues. Achilleion Palace was used as a filming location for the casino scene in the James Bond film ‘For your eyes only’ so please ask Miss Moneypenny to pack your tuxedo.
Another great Corfu experience is the drive to Paleokastritsa Monastery. The monastery was first built in the 13th century but the current complex dates back to the 18th century and it is a fine example of Greek monastic architecture. It is situated on the western side of Corfu as it sits graciously on a remote green hill dominating the surrounding area. The walk up to the monastery takes about ten minutes and rest stops are perfect for taking some much-needed photos but you are free to catch a breath too. The view from the top of the hill is amazing and the myth says that the petrified ship of Odysseus lies just below thanks to a visible rock curved in a way that resembles a trireme. Once inside you shall meet the monks, visit the church and witness a spiritual experience. There is a small souvenir shop where you can buy hand-crafted gifts and olive oil produced by the monks.
A trip to Kassiopi area is also a must. Kassiopi is a picturesque quaint little town on the north-east corner of Corfu. Here you will find beaches with crystal clear blue waters and lots of green as the hills are covered with olive groves, vines and citrus plantations. In September there is a wine festival that features abundant wine, continuous music and local cuisine with people coming from all over the island to attend. The harbour square is the focal point of Kassiopi town with lots of shops, taverns, restaurants and bars. Make sure you try the famous Greek dishes and enjoy fresh fish from the morning fishing expeditions. Relish the magnificent view overlooking Mount Pantokrator as you raise your wine glasses in honour of my wonderful taste.
This is all for now, my dear fellow adventurers. In conclusion please remember that life is short and beautiful and it is strictly up to you to enjoy it and live it to the fullest.