Corfu: An Emerald Isle of the Mediterranean June 18, 2012 – Posted in: Uncategorized
When we saw Corfu was on the itinerary, we read that many of the points of interest (i.e. luxurious seaside areas) were on the opposite side of the island from the port. After hearing that it was difficult to get a cab since there were so few on the island (See: “I’ll Have an Appetizer of the World, Please”) we decided we’d bite the Norwegian-shore excursion-bullet and join a tour. On a mission to tell you my insider jet-setting translation and advice tidbits, I’ve broken down the cruise ship lingo and the {Red-i} By Chelsea recap of this excursion:
Shore excursion description directly from the Norwegian Cruise Line website:
TIMELESS VILLAGES & SCENIC DRIVE
“Experience Corfu’s most enchanting landmarks and colorful villages as well as breathtaking views of the island on this delightful tour.”
- {Red-i} By Chelsea recap: An informative tour that gave us the opportunity to see much more than we would have by hailing a cab to a local beach {guilty of doing this on many occasions}.
“After an approximate 30-minute drive, you’ll first stop at Paleokastritsa, not only one of the most beautiful spots on the island but also a vantage point from which splendid views of the area’s multiple bays can be seen. It’s said that at one of these bays, Odysseus met Nausica after he was washed ashore. Here you’ll visit the Monastery of the Virgin and its small museum.”
- {Red-i} By Chelsea recap: We lucked out and had an amazing tour guide/narrator who clearly explained the history of the island and points of interest as we drove North. Once we reached Paleokastritsa, we were in awe. These were some of the most breathtaking views I had ever seen. We ascended the cobblestone hill to the monastery of San Spyridon which was much more beautiful than I expected. The entrance was framed in exotic flowers and gardens while the bays below were a combination of emerald green, turquoise and sapphire – truly out of this world. Click below on the images to enlarge:
“Your tour will continue towards the village of Lakones where you can look down on the Paleokastritsa and take memorable pictures. While continuing your drive to the western section of Mount Pantokrator, you’ll get the feeling that the entire island of Corfu is spread below your feet. After passing various Corfiot villages, you’ll walk through the beautiful fishing village of Kassiopi which is dominated by an ancient plane tree in its main square to reach your typical Greek lunch.”
- {Red-i} By Chelsea recap: The olive groves and fresh pops of flowers perfectly iced the majestic mountains of the island. Driving high up on the hills while overlooking the Ionian Sea was a stunning experience. I had no idea how lush this island was and I had a much greater appreciation for it after seeing it in person. Kassiopi is another beautiful fishing village with views of the harbor right in front of the restaurant where we had lunch, . Although I wouldn’t recommend more than a few hours there, it’s a beautiful little walkable town to stop, snap photos, have a bite to eat and enjoy a glass of Corfiot wine. What isn’t on my list of recommendations? That happens to be the Corfiut national dish of sofrito. Tagged by the locals as the best thing on Earth/Corfu, a plate of veal covered in some kind of gravy did not appeal (and it appeared I wasn’t alone in my sentiment). What did appeal was the amazingly fresh Greek Salad, wine and of course…lamb!
“After lunch you’ll continue exploring the northeast coastline via the village of Nissaki and the coastal resorts of Barbati, Ipsos, Dassia, Gouvia and Kontokali.”
- {Red-i} By Chelsea recap: Incredible views! We stopped at a restaurant called the Golden Fox in a village called Lakones. The restaurant had a balcony behind it which begged to be photographed! The emerald and turquoise Ionian Sea, craggy mountains jutting up out of the water and a Mediterranean breeze were the backdrop of this breathtaking stop. Apart from the views there were a few souvenir shops that happily sold every product that you could ever make out of olives. Kumquat liqueur is also a major product of the island which is available everywhere. This fruit looks like a small version of an orange and has a slightly medicinal but still interesting flavor when it’s made into the liqueur.
“Continuing your drive through the beautiful countryside, you’ll reach the Old Town of Corfu where you’ll have a chance to admire from the comfort of your motorcoach, the architecture of the beautiful mansions, the Byzantine churches, the old fortress, the Palaces of St. Michael and St. George and the lively Esplanade Square, before your return to the pier.”
- {Red-i} By Chelsea recap: The town was FAR more beautiful than I imagined! As a “what I would do next time,” I would definitely plan for time to stroll around Corfu Town. From the cricket field to the gorgeous {and extremely weathered} buildings and the views out to sea, the atmosphere is classic and captivating. This will be a “must” upon a future return to this Emerald Isle of the Mediterranean!
I hope this blog post gives you a better understanding of Corfu and puts it on your radar! If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to comment! In the meantime, enjoy the photos below:
