CorfuAbout your

Holiday

villaplus.com

We make sure you love it more

Corfu

AcharaviKassiopi

Avlaki

Agios Stefanos

Kalami

BarbatiNissaki

Arillas

Glyfada

Benitses

Kavos

PaleokastritsaDassia

Gouvia

Corfu Town

Sidari

Airport

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Corfu holidaysyou’ll love moreCorfu is one of the most popular and beautiful islands in Greece with a rich culture that spans centuries. The diverse coastline offers beaches from glorious sweeps of fine golden sand to enchanting white pebble coves. Its gentle magnetic appeal draws people back year after year.

Discover bustling seaside resorts and quaint villages where life revolves around picturesque harbours or explore Corfu Town with its impressive Venetian fortresses, hidden arcaded avenues and Byzantine churches.

From a fun day out at water parks to a boat ride along the beautiful coast there’s plenty to do for everyone.

Welcome to Corfu the Garden Isle of Greece.

ContentsA little more about Villa Plus 04

Villa Plus Service Centre 05

Before you go 06 - 07

Getting to and from your villa 08

Villa Plus Travel Insurance 09

About your villa 10 - 11

Health and Safety 12 - 13

Places to visit 14 - 17

Festivals and Events 18

Sports 19

Children’s Activities 20

Shopping 21

Food 22

Resorts

Acharavi 23

Agios Stefanos 24

Barbati 25

Kalami 26

Kassiopi 27

Nissaki 28

Useful Information 29

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Villa Plus have arranged villa holidays since 1986. Our product focus is on better villas, in better locations with private pools and more facilities. Over the years we’ve grown from just one destination to 13 across Portugal, Spain, Cyprus and Greece. We’re now one of the largest tour operators in the villa market and offer over 900 exclusive villas.

This holiday guide is designed to help you enjoy your holiday. Please read it carefully before you go. That way we can ensure all the arrangements made on your behalf run smoothly.

Thank you for choosing Villa Plus and we hope to see you again in the future.

Welcome to Villa Plus. We hope you have a fabulous holiday in Corfu and would like to tell you a little about the company. As a direct sell operator we only sell our own holidays. This means we place great emphasis on quality and service. In fact we take a personal interest in the enjoyment of your holiday and all our staff receive ongoing training to ensure we provide you with consistently good service.

A little more about Villa Plus

Our resort staff are there to ensure all aspects of your holiday go as planned and to maintain your privacy. In general, they will not visit unless in an emergency or to carry out villa checks. Details of your Villa Representative can be found in the security information in your travel pack.

Villa Plus Service Centre

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Travel adaptor/s If you bring your own electrical equipment then you will need to bring a European travel adaptor.

Passport details You must give your Advance Passenger Information (API, sometimes called APIS) details to your airline before you fly. Baggage allowance Baggage allowance, normally 20 kilos per person, can depend on who you’re flying with and will be specified on your itinerary. Collapsible wheelchairs, car seats for infants, pushchairs and carrycots may be carried as hand luggage in excess of the baggage allowance and can usually be taken to the final departure gate to be stored in the hold during the flight. Many charter airlines now charge for excess baggage and equipment such as golf clubs.

Dangerous goods Please refer to the security policy of the airline you’re travelling with.

Special needs and requirements If you, or any member of your party, have any special needs or specific requirements then please let us know at the time of booking. We’ll send you a form for disabled and less mobile clients for you to complete and return so we can ensure the villa and flights you’ve chosen are completely suitable for your needs.

Any queries just call + 44 (0) 1727 836686 or email info@villaplus.com

Here’s our tick list...Travel documents You’ll receive your holiday documents - specifically itinerary and flight reference number (to quote at check in), accommodation details, directions, car hire information and voucher - about ten days before you travel. Please check the documents match your reservation.

Holiday insurance Whether you have taken the ‘Villa Plus’ holiday insurance or not, if you or a member of your party have a pre-existing medical condition, then you MUST advise your insurance company straight away. Failure to do so may invalidate your insurance.

European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) allows you to access state-provided healthcare in all European Economic Area (EEA) countries and Switzerland at a reduced cost or sometimes free of charge. The card is free of charge and, in addition to your travel insurance, we recommend you sign up. Register online at www.ehic.org.uk

Money Whilst MasterCard and Visa cards are widely accepted, and most resorts have ATM’s, we recommend that you get some Euro’s before you go. Please note: travellers cheques are no longer used in Spain.

Towels Although towels are provided in the villas, you’ll need to bring your own beach and pool towels with you.

Before you go

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Getting to and from your villa

Villa Plus transfer from airport If you booked a Villa Plus transfer then, in general, you’ll see your Representative in the arrivals hall who will have organised your transfer. Please refer to the itinerary in your travel pack for more information.

Villa Plus car hire If you’ve booked a car through Villa Plus then please refer to your itinerary and car hire voucher for collection details. It is advisable that one member of the party waits for the baggage whilst another goes to the desk to complete the contract and pay the appropriate deposit and so on.

Directions to your villa Your directions are included in your travel pack.

Arriving at your villa You can get into your villa at 1pm. If you arrive before 4pm, particularly in the larger villas, the maid may still be tidying up.

Leaving your villa Please vacate your villa by 10am. The maid could arrive as early as 8am.

Flight delays EU legislation entitles passengers to compensation from the airline if there is denied boarding, cancellation or delay to flights. Reimbursement in such cases is the responsibility of the airline and will not entitle you to a refund of the price of your arrangements from us. If the airline does not comply with these rules you should complain to the CAA on +44 (0) 20 7453 6888 www.caa.co.uk

Villa Plus Travel Insurance

Lost luggage If you’re unfortunate enough to lose your luggage then you need to report this at the lost luggage desk in the baggage reclaim area.

Left luggage If you have a late return flight, then there are normally facilities where you can leave your luggage on your last day. This information can be found in the villa manual or you can contact the local office.

Villa keys The keys to your villa will be contained in a security key box at your villa. Details of this together with the boxes security number are included with your final documentation. Normally only one set of keys will be supplied for the villa that you will be occupying. We would appreciate it if you could take care of the keys as obtaining replacement keys, or changing the locks can be expensive.

Villa Plus holiday insurance is provided by Union Reiseversicherung AG. If you’ve taken this out there is a 24 hour medical emergency assistance facilities service who you can call directly on +44 (0) 845 260 3 260. Remember to have the following information to hand:

n A contact telephone number

n Name and age of patient

n Location of hospital and doctor’s telephone number

n The medical problem

n Your premium receipt number and details of booked travel arrangements

Please refer to your Insurance policy for details of the procedure you should follow, should you require outpatient treatment.

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About Your Villa

Cots/extra beds The majority of the cots that we supply are of the collapsible travel type. All cots supplied in the villas comply with local safety standards. All linen is laundered together so if you have concerns about cot linen, please bring your own. Extra beds are normally of the fold-up variety and are suitable for children only up to the age of 11 years old.

Gas Supply Not all the villas have a gas supply. If applicable, the villa will usually be supplied with an orange coloured Butano gas bottle. In the unlikely event that the gas should run out, please contact our local Villa Representative, who will arrange for a replacement. Where gas water heaters are used in villas, they are subject to an annual inspection by local qualified engineers. A carbon monoxide detector is provided for your additional peace of mind.

Electricity Electricity is 220 AC with continental twin plugs. Your villa electricity supply is not always as constant as in the UK. You may find that the electricity will “trip off” if too many appliances are used at once. This has become more apparent as we have added more equipment into the villas. If this happens, simply turn off some appliances and reset the main fuse box (the location and full details will be in the Villa Manual at the villa).

Internet Most Resorts have an Internet access point ‘Hot Spots’, where you can check emails etc, and the location will be given to you in the Villa Manual. Some individual villas have internet access. Please see your Villa Manual for more details.

Air Conditioning Many villas now include air conditioning/heating in the bedrooms as standard. Please see the individual villa descriptions. Some of these units operate on a sensor that will turn off the unit if the room is not in use. Please consult the Villa Manual for full details. In the case of any malfunction, we will endeavour to rectify them as soon as possible, Villa Plus cannot be responsible for any non-operational time that is out of our control.

Barbecues All our villas have barbecues and wherever possible, brick built. It is not normal for maids to clean the barbecue and we ask guests to leave them in a reasonable and useable condition. We have asked owners to supply cleaning implements.

TV’s To keep you entertained inside your villa, you’ll find a TV which will have a mix of satellite and terrestrial channels and also offer some English speaking channels too. DVD players (including films) are provided in the majority in our villas.

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SafetyHealth and Safety

Safety information You’ll find a Villa Manual with safety information specific to your villa at the property. Please take the time on arrival to familiarise yourselves with the safety features and layout of your villa. If you’re travelling with children then please take the time to point out to any areas where they should take particular care such as the pool and balconies. If you have any questions or concerns, then your Villa Representative will be happy to assist. Should you have an accident anywhere in or around the villa you must report this straight away to your Villa Representative.

Smoking Smoking is not permitted in any of our villas and we would request you only smoke outside the villa. Please do not leave cigarette stubs in the garden.

Swimming pool Whilst the swimming pool is an essential part of the pleasure of holidaying for many people, if misused it can be dangerous:

n Make sure you know the depths of the pool.

n Please observe our strict no diving policy.

n Do not run around the pool side - especially children with wet feet.

n Do not go out of your depth unless you are a good swimmer.

n Do not swim if you cannot see the bottom. If this is the case contact your Villa Representative as soon as possible. Bad weather, thunder storms and/or excess suntan oil

(especially the non waterproof types), can turn the water cloudy. Use the poolside shower before swimming to keep the pool clean.

n Children and fair skinned people should wear a hat and T-shirt whilst in the pool as harmful ultra violet rays can penetrate water up to a depth of 1.5m and are reflected off the water surface.

n Beware of dangerous surfaces, drainage channels, slippery tiles or raised edges.

n Always supervise children and non-swimmers in and around the pool area.

n Do not swim if you have been drinking alcohol, especially late at night.

Report an accident immediately to your Villa Representative, who will attend the villa. Any fault with the pool or its equipment will be inspected and immediate action taken to correct the problem. If, in the opinion of the Villa Representative the pool must be closed for your safety until a repair is facilitated as quickly as possible, you will be instructed in writing to cease using the pool and our liability shall not exceed 33% of the villa rental portion of the holiday.

Pool Heating Many of our swimming pools have been fitted with a Pool Heat Pump, making the pool 3°C to 5°C warmer at 1pm during the day than a non-heated pool under normal circumstances. This provides the pool with a beneficial warming, but does not make it a “hot” pool. Villa Plus cannot be

responsible for any non-operational time, out of our control.

In the case of any malfunction, we will endeavour to rectify them as soon as possible and our liability shall not exceed £150 per villa per week in total. If the pool has a cover, please use it as it will significantly increase the temperature of the water.

Tap water Water from the tap is generally ok for cooking purposes. For drinking we recommend you drink bottled water only.

Sun bathing The best, safest and longer lasting tans are built up gradually - but although most travellers are aware of the danger, many holidays are still ruined by the effects of sunburn. Do take extreme care not to over-expose yourself or your children (particularly young babies), especially during the first few days. We suggest you stay under shade except for about 15 minutes in the early morning or late afternoon on the first day, gradually increasing the time as your skin becomes accustomed to the sun. Even then be sure to use a suntan preparation of the correct factor for your skin and apply it liberally at regular intervals, particularly after swimming. Children should wear sun-hats and their shoulders should be covered as much as possible. We strongly recommend the use of good quality, waterproof sun creams especially when in and out of the pool or down at the beach.

Beaches Please be aware of the local safety precautions when you visit the beaches.

At all times, for your own safety, comply with the suggestions of the local lifeguards, warning notices or flag systems. Should you have any concerns consult a qualified authority or your Villa Representative.

Breakages Please notify our Villa Representative should you notice any shortfalls in the quality of furnishings/cleaning etc. In case of breakages during your holiday, either replace with a matching item or report the damage to the Villa Representative. For details of our accidental damage waiver or security deposit, please refer to www.villaplus.com

Security Please store valuables in the safe provided including vital documents If you do not use the safe provided you may invalidate any insurance claim that you may have.

Most villas have an alarm and nightlight. Ensure the alarm is switched on when you leave the villa.

Additionally make sure all doors/windows are closed/locked if you leave the villa or are around the pool.

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Places to visit

BeachesWith over 200 beaches to chose from in Corfu it would be difficult to describe them all so here we will give you a glimpse of some of the beaches close to your areas and others a little further afield but worth visiting.

The North East Coast The North East coast of Corfu is one of the most beautiful areas on the island and is where the majority of our villas are situated. A winding road follows the coast from Ipsos to Kassiopi with breath taking views and plenty of places to stop and admire the scenery or take a dip in the crystal clear waters. It is also a perfect coast to explore by boat.

Dassia. A bustling and lively resort with a good selection of places to eat and a wide variety of shops and cafes. The long strip of pebbly beach is backed by a promenade and there are three water sports jetties and a popular beach nightclub.

Ipsos is a 1 km strip of shingly beach that runs alongside the road. There are two attractive local harbours where you can

occasionally buy fresh caught fish. Lined with bars, discos shops and tavernas, Ipsos is a bustling resort perfect for young people.

Barbati. The village of Barbati is along the roadside with several very good local tavernas all with paths nearby down to the stunning long pebbly beach whish is perfect for swimming. There are also several café bars and tavernas along the beach itself, a water sports jetty and boat hire.

Nissaki. Nissaki is one of the prettiest little beaches and harbours along the coast. It has a small shingly beach with enticing turquoise waters, tavernas, watersports, and a pretty fishing harbour where boat trips and hire can be found.

Kaminaki. A steep narrow road leads to the a little village and lovely beach of Kaminaki, a curve bay of white pebbles with a jetty and two tavernas.

Krouzeri. Take the road to Nissaki beach hotel and you will come to Krouzeria beach, a long pebble and shingle beach with a couple of tavernas and a water sports jetty.

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Kalami. One of the larger ‘resorts’ on the coastline Kalami boasts a beautiful wide bay, and horse shoe pebbly beach with several tavernas and shops in the village and along the beach. There is watersports, boat hire and Nautilus boat trips available from the village.

Kouloura. Perhaps one of the most photographed villages on the island with a stunning circular harbour, small taverna and nearby pebbly beach shaded with eucalyptus trees.

Kerasia. Another spectacular long shingle and pebble beach frequented mostly by local people as it can only be accessed via St Stephanos or the sea. It has a traditional taverna and a café bar, and is wonderful for swimming

Agni. A narrow pebbled bay at the bottom of an olive and cypress tree valley where there are three tavernas. The scenery is beautiful, a popular stop for boats.

Agios Stefanos. One of the most popular traditional resorts on the north east coast Agions or St Stephanos (east, there is also a St Stephanos on the West coast) is a little village resort with several tavernas and a couple of very smart café bars and shops. It has a beautiful natural harbour and is therefore a favourite for all types of sea craft and a small shingly beach with lovely walks around the headland to other hidden beaches.

Avlaki. A spectaculary beautiful horseshoe stretch of shingly beach with stunning azure waters avlaki is almost always breezy and borders on a natural lake and currently undeveloped area of wilderness. There are a couple of tavernas along the beach and a windsurfing and dingy sailing school.

Kassiopi. The largest resort along the north east coast and a bustling seaside and historical harbour town Kassiopi has all a traditional resort has to offer plus three lovely beaches dotted around a pretty headland.

The North Coast Kalamaki. About 10 minutes drive along the North coast from Kassiopi. A wide shallow sandy bay with a couple of pleasant tavernas and is great for kids.

Agios Spiridon. A lovely sandy beach backed by a lagoon and nature reserve about a 15 minute drive North West of Kassiopi.

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AttractionsCorfu Town. The capital and main port of the island Corfu Town is one of the most beautiful and most impressive cities in Greece. It’s a joy to discover with a history that dates back centuries. Evidence of the original site of the ancient Greek city can be seen in the gardens of Mon Repos and the Archaeological museum. Discover Byzantine churches, Italian plazas, French arcades and Venetian fortresses. The café at the Liston is probably the place to ‘people watch’ while enjoying a drink.

The Achilleon Palace. An impressive palace built in the early 1890’s for the Empress Elizabeth of Austria. 5km south of Corfu Town through the lovely village of Gastouri.

Pantocrator Mountain. The highest point of Corfu it stands majestically overlooking the North East corner of Corfu, Corfu Town and the mainland beyond. Fantastic panoramic views from the monastery at the top.

Gouvia marina. One of the largest marinas in Greece Gouvia marina has a public swimming pool, playground and several smart cafes and restaurants. It is a lovely stop on a trip to Corfu town and for anyone with an interest in boats.

Almyros and Acharavi beaches. Along the North coast of the island runs a 7km sand and shingle beach passing the resorts of Almyros, Acharavi and Roda. A great place for walking and often breezy this beach has a nature reserve at one end and several tavernas, café bars and shops at various points along the beach.

Sidari. A very busy resort in the summer Sidari is known for its ‘canal d amour’ a lovely sand stone canal. There is a central sandy beach and for those that like to explore there are several other lovely beaches in the surrounding area

The West Coast Arillas. A short distance around the headland from Ag Stefanos (West). A sandy beach & bustling resort with several beachside bars and tavernas

Agios Georgios (North). Seen from the coastal road leading to Paleokastritsa, Agios Georgios is a large horseshoe shaped bay, with a lovely sandy beach and several seaside bars and tavernas.

Paleokastritsa. Known for its spectacular scenery and breath taking views from the village of Lakones above the main town.

Paleokastritsa has a large harbour with various boat trips and boat hire available, a central shingly beach and several small beaches around the coast the main one being the lovely sandy bay tucked between impressive rocks and cliffs.

Glyfada. One of the most beautiful beaches on the island. A sandy beach tucked away at the bottom of pine clad cliffs 20 minutes drive from Corfu Town. Various beach bars/tavernas and watersports.

Pelekas. Located a short distance down the coast from Glyfada is this lovely sandy beach set at the bottom of the tree clad hillsides.

Agios Gordis (North). Through the lovely traditional village of Sinarades wind down the olive slopes to Agios Gordis with its long strip of sand and beautiful scenery.

Places to visit

Festivals & Events

Greece has a tradition of celebrating every possible occasion with a festival. The patron Saint of the island is Saint Spiridon and several festivals are dedicated to him.

MayEnossis ton Eptanisson (The Ionian Islands’ Union with Greece) 21 May. Marked with a procession through Corfu Town, wreath laying, parades and brass bands.

August - September

Celebration at the Monastery on top of Mount Pantokrator. 3-6 August. There is a church service that continues for three days and a traditional panayiri (festival).

Garitsa and other bays (the date can vary year on year) 10 August. The Varcorola (boat procession). Commemorates a time in 1717 when St Spiridon is said to have protected the island from Turkish attack. Various floats are built onto traditional ‘caiques’ and these sail through the Bay of Garitsa as the tale is retold with fireworks and music.

Corfu Town. 11 August. One of several days in which a religious procession with priests and brass bands dedicated to St Spiridon meanders through the streets of Corfu Old town. It is believed that on this day in 1717 St Spiridon appeared during a tremendous thunderstorm and helped to fight off a major Turkish attack.

The Assumption of the Virgin Mary. 15 August. Throughout the Island is a Greek national holiday. Villages come alive with local residents and visitors alike and there are festivals in several villages around the island.

Summer events and the Corfu Festival. August & September. Various events such as traditional ‘cantades’ singers, dance groups or brass bands take place in public areas such as the Liston, the town hall square and the bandstand in the park. In September there are small concerts, plays and shows.

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with different small ‘fun and fast’ craft. For larger craft go to Gouvia Marina that offer captained or bare boat charters.

Scuba Diving The clear waters are lovely for scuba diving and there are various scuba diving schools around the island. Some of the better known are Water Hoppers who operate from Gouvia and Ipsos and Dive Med who operate in Paleokastritsa. There is also a diving school in Kassiopi.

Self Drive Boat Hire The North East corner of Corfu is an ideal location to hire a boat and skipper yourself and family for the day. A number of resorts offer boats and you do not need a speedboat licence to drive a boat with an engine smaller than 25hp.

Tennis There’s a tennis club in Corfu town, otherwise tennis can be played at many of the larger hotels such as Nissaki beach hotel on the North East coast.

Watersports Virtually all major beaches and many smaller ones have some kind of watersports available. Pedalos and small canoes can be found and sports such as water skiing, water boards, para-gliding, ringos and banana boats.

Windsurfing Although not known particularly for its windsurfing Corfu has two good windsurfing schools, one in the south of the island and the other is on Avlaki beach in the North.

Cricket Cricket was traditionally played just in front of the Liston in the centre of Corfu town. Now the pitch is only used for special events and an annual cricket tournament but there is a pitch in the Corfu Marina which occasionally holds matches as well as a croquet club

Cycling Bicycle hire is available from most resorts and there are a few very good organised cycling tours available for groups or individuals. Two of the larger ones are Giant bikes in Dassia and Acharavi Bikes on the outskirts of Acharavi that run select tours

Golf There is a golf course located in the lovely green and fertile Ropa Valley about 20 minutes out of Corfu town and 10 minutes from the nearest beach at Ermones.. It is a highly rated 18 holes par-72 course and is open 7 days a week

For full details check www.corfugolfclub.com Tel +30 26610 94220 or email info@corfugolfclub.com

Horseriding Horseriding is becoming more popular in Corfu and there are several stables around the island. Of these two popular ones are one in Kato Korakiana, run by a Welsh lady called Sally and one near Pelekas on the West coast called Silvaland

Sailing There are sailing schools dotted around the island. In Avlaki (well known for constant breezes) there is a dingy sailing school

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ShoppingChildren’s Activities

Water Parks There are three large water parks in the north of the island including Sidari waterpark at the far North West of the island, Hydropolis on the outskirts of Acharavi on the north coast and the biggest, Aqualand in Ag Ioannis just outside Corfu Town. All parks have a good selection of slides and pools and various refreshments available.

Play Parks On the main road to Corfu town there are two indoor play parks that are fun for smaller children with bouncing inflatables, padded adventure playgrounds and pleasant cafes

Horse & Buggy Rides Take a ride on a horse and trap for a small tour of the town. You will see them around Corfu Town and it is well worth the hour you spend holding up traffic!

Ten Pin Bowling Just outside Corfu town. Open from 10.00 to 02.00. A great place for a day or evening out. 12 bowling alleys, café bar, billiard and mini football tables, pinball and basketball machines and various computer games.

Boat Trips Easily one of the best ways to see Corfu is from the sea. Whether you are happy just to remain local with a pedalo, be adventurous by hiring your own little boat, prefer your boat to be captained or fancy going for the ferries to other islands, there is something for everyone.

Nautilus is a beautiful 14 metre motor yacht that does boat trips between Kassiopi and Ipsos along the North East Coast of Corfu and to Corfu town. With or without a meal included it is a relaxed way to see the beautiful coast and some of the beaches only accessible by boat.

Paleocastritsa has little boats which do small tours to the nearby caves. It’s a lovely way to admire the dramatic scenery and small caves of the West Coast.

Calypso glass bottom boat. Leaving from Corfu old port a large glass bottom boat heads towards a spot just off the island of Vidos. Children can see sea lions and the fish around the island.

Shopping in Corfu caters for all tastes, there are traditional handmade goods as well as classic souvenir shops. Specialities on the island include anything to do with olives such as olive woodcarvings, olive oil and even olive soaps. Corfu even has its own traditional sweet liqueur which can be found all over the island and is made using Kumquats.There is a wide variety of pottery, jewellery and small sculptures based on ancient Greek classical design, also some beautiful pieces of jewellery. The gold is all of 14 carat and above and often sold by weight. A good selection of silverware in many attractive designs can also be found. Corfu town is naturally the best place to shop with a huge variety of stores to choose from, many of the best hidden down the little side streets of the old town. Here you will find art studios, handmade leatherwear stores, handmade jewellery studios, local honey co-operatives and lots of little shops.

Markets There is a large and colourful fruit, vegetable and fish market every morning from 7am – 2pm except Sundays in Corfu town located just under the New Fortress walls.

Shopping in Corfu caters for all tastes, there are traditional handmade goods as well as classic souvenir shops.

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Ranging from very basic little places by the sea or up in the mountains with a limited but usually very fresh home cooked menu, to huge establishments with large menus, live music and on occasion dancing. The traditional way to eat is to order a selection of starters or ‘mezes’ which are shared between the whole company and then to have a main course each which includes grilled meat, fish or one of the many specialities such as Sofrito, Moussaka, Kleftiko or Pastitsada. Greeks have anything from one course to twenty courses. You just go through the menu and have one dish (or two) of what you fancy. For dessert try Baklava or Gadaifi – pastry with plenty of honey or syrup.

Eating out in Greece is a way of life and a national pastime with true Greek cuisine being healthy, varied and delicious! There are a good variety of classic restaurants that offer a wide selection of international and Greek cuisine and several international restaurants but if you want to sample the real Greek style of eating out you need to try the traditional ‘tavernas’ and grill rooms.

At the far North of Corfu stretches a long narrow sand and shingle beach of around seven kilometres. Along this stretch of sand is the relatively large and lively resort of Acharavi.

Dining & Nights Out Acharavi has plenty of tavernas and bars throughout the town and heading towards the beach. Lively cocktail bars show the latest films and sporting events.

Watersports A water sports centre is on the left hand side of the beach which offers waterskiing, ringo rides and parasailing.

Places of Interest On the way out of Acharavi you will see signs to the Roman baths. Also the remains of a Doric temple can be found near Roda, the next town along from Acharavi. The temple is believed to have been built as a dedication to Apollo.

This new, modern and developing resort has all the amenities of a small town in-cluding some smart shops and cafes plus a couple of large supermarkets, banks, and tourist offices. There is also a good range of restaurants for some delicious local cuisine as well as a host of bars and traditional tavernas. Just on the outskirts of Acharavi you will find a water park that has a good selection of slides and activities that are sure to keep the kids entertained.

Beaches The beach area is approximately 700m from the centre of the town and is ideal for younger children as the waters are shallow. The beach is of fine shingle, pebbles and sand and there are a number of beachside cafes and tavernas.

Boat Trips There are a number of boat trips on offer which are a great way to see the coastline with many heading down to Corfu Town while others stop at remote bays where you can enjoy a picnic on one of the picture perfect beaches.

Shopping Many shops can be found in Acharavi itself and a couple on the outskirts of the town. Mini markets and tourist shops are in the side roads towards the beach.

Dining & Nights Out Four tavernas are in Agios Stefanos plus tavernas at Kerasia beach and Avlaki a short distance away. Two cocktail bars are also situated in the village.

Watersports Nearby Avlaki beach offers windsurfing and dingy sailing and Kalami beach is the nearest beach for watersports including waterskiing and ringos.

Places of Interest Agios Stefanos has some lovely walks along the coast towards Kerasia and Kalami, through the footpaths of the Eremitis peninsular or up through the olives to Sinies. Kassiopi is only a 10 minute drive away as are the sandy beaches of the north coast. Hyropolis waterpark is about a 20 minute drive.

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In the town you’ll find inviting traditional beachside tavernas, a lovely gift shop, a small tourist and boat hire office, tiny beach and harbour. There are a couple of well-stocked small supermarkets and several tavernas. Although hidden from the outside world and deliciously lazy, Agios Stefanos is also conveniently close to a good range of activities and beaches including the bustling resort of Kassiopi and the beautiful beaches of the North East Coast.

Beaches A small beach at Agios Stefanos skirts the harbour but better beaches can be found just a 20 minute walk away at Kerasia or Avlaki. Both these beaches are accessible by road or foot and are lovely long pebbly beaches perfect for swimming and snorkelling. Both have plenty of sunbeds and a few lovely tavernas.

Boat Trips By far the best way to travel from Agios Stephanos is by sea, you can pick up a day trip with the ‘Nautilus’ complete with al fresco meal and local wine Tel 6932 452 739 to explore the beautiful coastline.

Shopping Along the main stretch of the village are two well stocked supermarkets. There are also several little tourist shops including a shop at the end of the village which sells goods and clothes.

Tucked in a beautiful secluded bay amongst the olive trees with stunning sea views, Agios Stephanos in Corfu started life as a little fishing village. It’s managed to retain much of its natural charm and is now a chic low key villa resort. A large Corfu village, it has several good

traditional tavernas all commanding splendid views, a few souvenir shops selling olive wood goods and ceramics, a tourist office, three small supermarkets and a couple of attractive bars all set above the beach.

Beaches The beautiful 2km long pebbly beach has stunning views and a range of exciting water sports including parasailing, banana boats and water skiing. The south end of the beach is quiet and perfect for anyone simply wanting to relax. As you continue along the pebbly beach it becomes busier meaning there are plenty of water sports on offer as well as snack bars and even a couple of swimming pools just behind the beach.

Boat Trips There are boat trips that depart from the beach to take you down to Corfu Town or along the North coast to a number of secluded beaches. Small boats are for hire if you want to find your very own secluded spot.

Shopping There are a few tourist shops and gift shops selling olive wood goods and ceramics. Several supermarkets can be found on the main road.

Backed by the commanding slopes of mount Pantocrator, Barbati is best known for its beautiful long pebbly beach and crystal clear waters.

Dining & Nights Out Several tavernas are located on the beach front and the main road in Barbati. The nightlife in Barbati is low key but Corfu Town is only 30 minutes away.

Watersports An array of watersports can be found at the southern end of the beach.

Places of Interest Rocky shores at both ends of Barbati beach provide interest and the remains of St Nikolas, an ancient church, is right on the beach, although closed it is worth a look. Traditional villages in the hills behind the resort are also worth exploring.

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Kalam

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Kassio

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Beaches The main Kalami beach is long and pebbly with its clear and calm waters perfect for swimming, snorkelling and water sports. There are three tavernas with their terraces on the beach and a short walk away is the beach of Gialiskari which is another pebbly bay accessible by foot or boat.

Boat Trips Only one or two boat trips are available from Kalami. ‘Nautilus’ boat trip goes along the coast and into Corfu town. You can also hire small self drive boats from the beach

Shopping There are several mini markets and small shops in the village and a gift shop set on the beach with a good range of gifts and beach wear.

Beaches Kassiopi has one main reasonable sized beach to the north of the town with convenient beachside tavernas and snack bars. There are several smaller beaches a short walk from the harbour as well. Two of these shingle beaches are large enough for a few sun loungers and have beautiful clear waters while along the footpath there are even a few hidden coves that are fairly quiet and peaceful.

Boat Trips There are a good range of boat trips available from Kassiopi town including trips aboard the beautiful motor cruiser Nautilus. You can also hire your own boat and take your time exploring the region.

Kalami, with its enchanting scenery and roughly in the middle of the North East of Corfu, is a beautiful horseshoe shaped bay that used to serve as one of the main harbours for transporting olives and olive oil to Corfu by local caique and as a base for the local fisher-men.

This pretty harbour-side town at the Northern end of the north east coast of Corfu has three attractive beaches and is the largest town in the North of Corfu.

It is known in particular for its one time resident Lawrence Durrell who lived for a time in the white house on the rock by the side of the bay. With its lovely pebbly beach, this family friendly, Corfu resort has several good beachside tavernas, three tourist offices, a couple of pleasant bars, water sports, boat hire and a small collec-tion of shops and supermarkets.

Until the Venetians took control in the 13th century, Kassiopi was a heavily fortified, strategic and thriving port. It was the last stronghold to be taken by the Venetian conquerors that promptly dismantled the powerful fort for fear of it falling into enemy hands. The remains of the vast walls and gatehouse can still be seen on the hillside overlooking the town. Over the years Kassiopi has become a lively and enchanting resort which still retains a traditional feel. There are plenty of good shops, various activities, and a good choice of places to eat, drink and dance the night away.

Dining & Nights Out There are five traditional tavernas in the village of Kalami and four of them have lovely seaside locations. A short distance around the headland to the north at Kouloura is another fish taverna overlooking the harbour and to the south is Agni with its three beachside tavernas. Two low key bars are set to the back of the village both of which stay open until the early hours and have a variety of music.

Watersports There is a watersports jetty in Kalami with water skiing, ringos and paragliding and the waters around the bay are ideal for snorkelling and swimming.

Places of Interest A coastal path goes to Kaminaki heading south and to Kerasia and Agios Stefanos to the North and a short distance away are some of the prettiest coves and beaches

Shopping There are several mini markets and two bigger supermarkets in Kassiopi. The largest two can be found on the main square and there is another down by the harbour.

Dining & Nights Out Kassiopi offers a good range of tavernas, restaurants and snack bars. Most of them are traditional Greek tavernas but there is also a very good Italian restaurant.

Watersports A scuba diving centre can be found in Kassiopi and a windsurfing/dingy sailing school in Avlaki. Kalami, a short drive down the coast is where the first watersports jetty is and offers calm secluded waters. There are also watersports facilities including waterskiing, ringos and parascending at Kaminaki, Nissaki and Barbati.

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Nissaki

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The ‘little island’ has since become a popular resort with a beautiful little beach at its doorstep. There is a large church, a couple of well-stocked small supermarkets, a friendly water sports centre, a few attractive souvenir shops and a collection of traditional tavernas.

Beaches The picture perfect pebbly beach at Nissaki has inviting turquoise waters and tends to get busy in the summer months but is always a great place to spend your days. There is a watersports jetty with waterskiing, ringos and paragliding facilities. One or two hidden little beaches accessible by foot or boat are nearby and the long pebbly beach of Barbati is a short drive away.

Boat Trips ‘Nautilus’ boat trips are a particular favourite from Nissaki as the boat has her moorings in the little circular harbour. She and her captain do day trips to Corfu town and up along the lovely north east coast with or without an al fresco meal included. This is a favourite way for many to explore the picturesque coastline and make the most of the beautiful weather by enjoying a day out at sea.

Nestled at the foot of the impressive Pantocrator mountain on a sweet little pebble cove is the village of Nissaki. As was the case with most of the seaside villages in Corfu, Nissaki was used largely by fishermen or by local people wanting to send their olives or vegetables to Corfu town by boat.

Language Greek

Currency Euro

International dialling code +30

Emergency Services 100 or 112

Time Eastern European Time - If you are travelling from the UK then you must set your watch forward 2 hours.

Electricity 220 AC - travellers from the UK will need a two-pin plug adaptor.

Opening Hours for Shops Shops are open from 09:00 till 14:00 hrs throughout the week and from 18:00 until 21:00 hrs Tuesday, Thursday and Friday. Most tourist shops are open all day seven days a week.

Shopping There are two large and two small supermarkets in Nissaki - Katerinas and Aphrodites on the main Corfu Kassiopi road have the best selection of goods.

Dining & Nights Out Down by the sea there are 3 traditional tavernas and along the road above the beach are further tavernas within a short distance. Nearby Barbati also has a good range of tavernas and snack bars.

Watersports There is a very nice watersports jetty at Nissaki with waterskiing, ringos and paragliding facilities.

Places of Interest Some beautiful scenic driving routes are nearby and Corfu town is only about half hour drive away.

Disclaimer: Whilst every care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this publication Villa Plus cannot accept responsibility for any errors or omissions and this holiday guide does not form part of our contract with you.

Restaurant recommendations have been made by past clients and on occasions restaurants close or change hands and therefore we are unable to guarantee quality or availability.

Copyright is reserved to Villa Plus Limited and this material may not be circulated, reproduced or published in whole or in part without the written consent of Villa Plus Limited. 01/05/2013

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