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Explore the Ionian Islands this May with Carhire3000 |
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Each year on the 21st May there are parades and celebrations across the Ionian Islands of Greece to commemorate their unification, effectuated in 1864.
The seven Ionian islands of Corfu, Paxos, Lefkas, Kefalonia, Ithaca, Zakynthos and Kythira welcome thousands of tourists to their shores every year. Although famed for their beaches and clear blue waters, the islands have many more charms from ancient olive groves, unspoilt rural villages, mountainside monasteries and fertile landscapes. May and June two of the best months to visit, whilst the wild flowers bloom and the heat is still bearable to allow exploring off the beaten track.
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Kefalonia (Cephalonia) |
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The island chosen as the backdrop for Captain Corelli’s Mandolin is one of the most beautiful Ionian islands. Steeped in history, there are historic ruins dotted across the island as well as hidden coves and traditional tavernas, just waiting to be discovered.
Myrtos Beach - a hair-raising steep gravel road leads to one of the Ionian’s best known beaches where white sand meets azure water against a backdrop of towering, limestone cliffs.
Drogharáti Caves - Discovered almost 300 years ago, the caves have an impressive display of limestone rock formations. The main chamber, with majestic stalagmites, is occasionally used as a concert venue due to its excellent acoustics.
Melissáni Lake - The lake within the Melissáni Cave filled with brackish water (a mix between sea water and sweet water). Visitors are encouraged to take the boat trip through the two distinct halls of the cave. The roof has collapsed in the first of the halls, allowing sunlight to pour in which, reflected by the aquamarine water, fills the cave with an exquisite blue light. The second cavern is filled with an amazing display of stalagmites and stalactites.
Fiskardo - Lying at the northernmost point of Kefalonia, Fiskardo is a small, picturesque fishing village with panoramic views of the Ionian Sea. The village is one of the few places on the island unaffected by the 1953 earthquake and retains some of its original Venetian architecture. The charm of the village attracts many tourists in the height of summer and it has also become a popular sailing port. As such, there is now a good selection of souvenir shops and harbour-front restaurants.
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Corfu |
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One of the most popular holiday destinations in the Ionian Sea, Corfu boasts a number of young and lively resorts along its east coast. But the island which inspired Shakespeare’s The Tempest has hidden depths for those wanting to explore. To the north there are towering mountains, dramatic cliffs, ruined castles and some of the best beaches on the island.
Paleokastrítsa - This picturesque village, surrounded by dramatic hills, is a popular day trip. The 13th century Theotókou monastery, perched above the village, is open to the public and the nearby Angelókastro Castle offers stunning views.
Corfu Town - The largest of the Ionian capitals, Corfu Town (Kerkyra) is well worth a visit. The Old Town, overlooked by the impressive ancient Fort, is a maze of narrow streets with elegant Venetian buildings, secret gardens and hidden chapels. Here you will also find the church of Áyios Spyrídhon (Patron Saint of the island). Within the new part of town, you will find an abundance of bustling shops and markets to satisfy even the most avid shopaholic.
Mount Pantokrator - Take the narrow, zigzagging road up to the highest mountain in Corfu for spectacular views of the whole island and neighbouring Paxos. On a clear day, visitors may even be able to see southern Italy, over 80 miles away! At the top is a small monastery, over-shadowed by the more modern telecommunications centre with its tall radio mast.
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Paxos |
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Only 6 miles long, Paxos is the smallest of the main Ionian Islands; lush vegetation, unspoilt mountainous scenery and tranquil olive groves sit harmoniously beside sheer white cliffs, sweeping bays and picturesque white-washed villages.
Loggos - This pretty fishing village, situated at the head of a natural harbour, still retains its traditional charm despite being one of the more popular ports of call for the sailing crowd. The harbour is an ideal place to grab a chilled beer and unwind. Alternatively, make the short walk over the headland to see the lighthouse and dramatic sea-sculptured rocks
Caves and cliffs - The sea caves around the island are magnificent and the boat trips to the largest (Grammatiko and Kastanitha) are certainly worthwhile. The Erimitis cliffs, near the resort of Lakka, are also impressive and best appreciated at sunset |
Travelling to Greece this year? Don't forget, Car Hire 3000 offer car hire from locations across Greece, including car hire Crete , car hire Rhodes , car hire Halkidiki and car hire Corfu - as well as 4000 other locations across the world!
This webpage is intended to be used as a source of information only. Traveljigsaw gives no warranty or guarantee whatsoever regarding the accuracy, currency, reliability or completeness of the information provided for these events and attractions. Any warranties regarding such information which may be implied by law, statute or otherwise are hereby excluded to the fullest extent permitted by law. Visitors are advised to check the accuracy of the information provided here for themselves, including dates, fees and times, with the attractions or event providers themselves |
