Attractions Nearby Corfu and Island Hopping

(Corfu, Ionian Islands, Greece)

The glorious beaches and their related attractions are usually more than enough to keep holiday makers fully entertained on Corfu. However, due to its convenient location, Corfu is well-placed for island hopping and the attractions on neighbouring Ionian Islands, such of Erikoussa, Kefalonia, Othoni and Zakynthos (Zante), are really too close to be ignored.

Sami, on the island of Kefalonia, is one of the island's busiest ports after Corfu Town itself, although has become most famous for being used as a film location in Captain Corelli's Mandolin. The port of Sami the perfect place to reach the small and perfectly formed island of Pontikonisi, which is just a few kilometres away and therefore by boat, can be reached in literally just a matter of minutes. Even the endless attractions of Alabania and Italy are within reach of the island of Corfu by ferry.

Kefalonia

The biggest of all the Ionian islands, Kefalonia is relatively close to Corfu and perfect for a day trip or brief excursion, with these two islands being connected by inexpensive daily flights between the two airports. Kefalonia hides many secrets and attractions beneath its more prominent, touristy facade of spectacular beaches and resorts. Try to make time to explore one or two of its innumerable vineyards, or enjoy a trek along one of the scenic mountain trails. Argostoli is the capital of Kefalonia, although many other villages may also be of interest, such as Assos, Fiskardo and Sami.

Erikoussa (Ereikoussa)

The most northerly of the Ionian Islands, Erikoussa is so close to Corfu that it is actually considered to be a prefecture of the island. Also known as Ereikoussa, the island of Erikoussa has just one town and a limited number of attractions, although the quite beaches of Bragkini and Porto are well worth investigating.

Othoni

Situated directly to the north-west of Corfu and the westernmost of the Ionian islands, Othoni is part of the overall Corfu Prefecture and has a population of less than 700 islanders. There are a number of good beach attractions dotted around Othoni, such as the rather famous caves next to the sands of Aspros Ammos, where interestingly, legend purports that Calypso once held Ulysses as his captive.

Pontikonisi (Mouse Island)

Apart from the green landscaping and abundant areas of woodland, the monastery of Pantokrator is the main attraction on Pontikonisi (Mouse Island) and features an eye-catching staircase made of white stones. When viewed from a distance, this white staircase almost resembles the tail of a mouse, earning this island its rather colourful name of 'Mouse Island'.

Zakynthos (Zante)

The third-largest of the Ionian islands, Zakynthos boasts a truly thriving tourist industry, due in no small part to its countless beaches and beautiful, crystal clear waters. Zakynthos is also well known in this part of Greece to its exception scuba diving opportunities, with many of the best sites being cave dives. Scuba divers exploring the coastline of Zakynthos can expect to encounter everything from octopus and monk seals, to colourful fish and even loggerhead turtles.