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Ionian Islands Holiday Guide

The Ionian Islands in the Western mainland include the cities of Corfu, Zakinthos, Kefalonia, and Paxos. You will be captivated by the mesmerizing natural beauty of the islands; olive groves, intriguing mountains and the vast expanse of beaches dotted with pine trees give the islands a mythical quality. Equally inviting are the iridescent waters of the Ionian Sea which draw the adventure seekers for an exciting game of aqua sports.

Whether it is the distinct traditions, the sumptuous cuisine or the spectacular architecture combining the influences of Venetians, French and the British, the Ionian Islands have much to offer the tourists. Soak in the sun on the beaches, explore the islands at your own pace. Enjoy long solitary strolls in the woods or wander through the fortresses and Byzantine churches. Party the night away at Corfu's Pink Palace complex or follow in the footsteps of Homer's Odysseus on Ithaca. Relax on Kythira's stunning beaches or simply savour the delicious local dishes in the local eateries.

Things to see and do in the Ionian Islands

Corfu is the best known of all Ionian Islands and has much to offer the tourists.

• Achilleion:
  The neoclassical villa of Achilleion was built by Empress Elizabeth of Austria in 1890 as a memorial to her son, Rudolf. The villa features numerous statues and motifs associated with Achilles.
• Archaeological Museum:
  The main attraction of the Archaeological Museum is the pediment from the Temple of Artemis. Besides there is a diverse collection of items from the island's archaeological heritage
• Old Town:
  You can wander through the narrow streets of Corfu's old town to see the fine Venetian buildings and the nearby Mon Repos villa.

Paxos is another island that occupies a special place in the Ionian archipelago. The sheer limestone cliffs plunging hundreds of meters in the less accessible west coast of the island are a sight to behold. Walkers can find innumerable delights along the ancient mule trails and also rediscover the joys, which only a slow pace of life can give.

Visit the port of Loggos, the smallest,the prettiest and the most exclusive of the ports of the island. Also enjoy the flotillas of yachts hanging suspended over the sea in the harbour of Lakka.

Golfing in the Ionian Islands

• Corfu Golf & Country Club:
  Located in the Ropa Valley, Corfu, this is an 18 hole, year round championship course. Facilities include an attractive looking clubhouse, a bar, a lounge area offering snooker and satellite TV and a restaurant where appetizing meals are served at reasonable prices.

Spas in the Ionian Islands

• The Thalasso Spa Elixir (Dassia, Corfu):
  Enjoy a refreshing dip in the Thalasso pool, whirlpool path or treat yourself to a wellness massage. A wide range of seaweed treatments have especially been designed to leave you feeling simply radiant.
• Spa at the Hotel Corfu Palace:
  Pamper yourself in the hotel's spa which specializes in seawater therapies. Other attractions are a jacuzzi, indoor pool and a massage room.