Paleokastritsa, Monastery & Beach Getaway

Description

Be sure to read the Special Notes further down this page for important requirements and restriction.

Corfu, one of the Ionian Islands nestled off the west side of the Greek mainland, is 36 miles long, 15 miles wide and over 3,000 feet high at the peak of Mt. Pantocrator. It's one of the greenest islands in the Mediterranean with over 3 million olive trees and it is rimmed with rocky coves, secluded beaches and picturesque villages. The weather is idyllic making your time here a blissful escape. Make the most of it on this captivating tour designed around history, culture and fun in the sun.

The town is a maze of narrow streets dominated by the 16th century fortress. During your drive from the pier, take in the vibrant scene from charming chapels and old mansions to secret gardens. Among the bustle there are shops and stalls selling local items like wild honey, fig cakes and handmade lace. By the Old Fort keep an eye out for the Liston Esplanade, one of Corfu's most notable eateries.

Continuing along the coast, you'll be dazzled by the beauty of Paleokastritsa Village, a seaside village built among six small coves and nestled in the rugged coastline. It's surrounded by olive, lemon and cypress groves and possesses some of the finest scenery in the entire Mediterranean.
Your first destination is the female Monastery of Agia Paraskevi founded in the 17th century. It is located above Palaiokastritsa at a panoramic location. The Monastery's Katholikon is a simple Basilica and houses post-Byzantine and Ionian-style icons. It celebrates the memory of Agia Paraskevi on 26th July with the participation of all nearby villages

Next, you'll trace the western coast of Corfu to Glyfada Beach for a delightful interlude of sun and sand. Spread out your towel or sink into a chair under a colorful umbrella, soaking up the beauty of the tree-covered cliffs and crystal-clear waters. Take a swim, hire a watercraft or dive into some of the watersports on offer. The beach is lined with inviting cafeterias and tavernas so when you've worked up an appetite you can retire to the shade and a refreshing drink and tasty bite (not included).

Saying farewell to the beach you'll re-board your motorcoach for the scenic return drive to your ship. Along the way, you'll listen to tales of ancient Corfu, called Kerkyra in Greek from the Nymph Korkira, the daughter of the River God, Aesopos. You'll learn how the island has been ruled over time by many different cultures from the Phoenicians and Italians to the French and British, and echoes of each period remain. It's just part of the magic of this ethereal land.

Special Notes:

Respectful attire must be worn when visiting the Monastery. Please note that ladies must have their shoulders covered and shorts are not permitted. There are up to 15 steps to negotiate at the Agia Paraskevi Monastery . Photography and filming are not permitted in the Agia Paraskevi Monastery.

Please remember to bring your swim suit,a towel, sun protection and Euros.

Lifeguards will be present on the beach.

This tour will operate from June through September.