A section of the Southern Corfu trail
The Corfu trail is the island’s long-distance walking trail and covers the length and in certain areas the breadth of the entire island. The total length of the trail is approximately 220kms long, but there are a number of variations. This southern section appears to be less trodden, or at least the state of the trail implies it. If you are short of time it is possible to do shorter sections of the trail in different regions of the island. Read our blog on the hike from Sokraki village to the top of Mount Pantocrator, Corfu’s highest mountain.
Our guide was the Freytag and Berndt map of Corfu 1:50,000 which has the trail marked. We used this map, online maps and talked to the friendly locals where necessary. The trail is by no way clearly marked, but it is still relatively straightforward – at least the sections we undertook. Just make sure you have plenty of water, high factor sun cream and a hat!
Olive groves outside Perivoli
We started walking on country lanes outside the typical Corfiot village of Perivoli. The trail wound through tranquil olive groves towards blissful Alykes beach approximately 3kms away.
The small village at Alykes has a wonderful café on the seafront where you can buy a bumper seafood platter and Greek salad. All this can be eaten in front of the deep-blue millpond like seas. The boardwalk running into the water provides access to a deeper section of water perfect for snorkelling.
Alykes salt flats
About a kilometre east are the Alykes salt flats that once provided local jobs. This processing of salt has long ceased, but the salt flats are home to a staggering variety of birds, including flamingos. This section provides the perfect contrast to the olive groves and green open fields on the previous section of the Corfu trail. Don’t forget to bring a pair of binoculars.
Lefkimmi, Corfu’s second town
Once through the salt flats continue on trails and minor roads along the canal to Lefkimmi, Corfu’s 2nd largest town. Walk through more olive grows, fields of citrus trees with an abundance of the yellow fruits even in April. There are also a number of small vineyards where you may be able to have a small glass of vino with the locals. Although it is Corfu’s 2nd largest town, it is still a sleepy place. Interestingly you can catch a ferry from here to Igoumenitsa on the Greek mainland just south of the border with Albania.
As we had delayed in the salt flats we didn’t have time to continue onto our original destination at Spartera a little further south.
Nangle angle
Perfect contrast to the northern Corfu trail between Sokraki and Mount Pantocrator.
Nangle facts & tips
Much of this section of the Southern Corfu trail is poorly marked. If you prefer precise routings it is best to use specialist guides of the Corfu trail.
Combine the trek of the Corfu trail with time on one of Corfu’s beaches.
A good eco-stay closeby north-east of Lake Korission is Bioporos Organic Farmstays
