Pick up your hire car at Corfu and get ready to explore the pearl of the Aegean.
"Poseidon chose to set up home here, so if it's good enough for the gods..."
Corfu has an amazing link to myth and legend. Not only Poseidon, but Odysseus, the Argonauts and Hercules all spent time on the island. If you're not into all that, you can just concentrate on the beautiful beaches, lively tavernas and exclusive night clubs.
In Corfu, you choose your own pace. While away your time with lazy days in small coastal villages, or head to Kavos for a spot of hedonism. Surprisingly, the two places seem to co-exist quite happily.
Corfiotes are an easy-going and friendly bunch - must have something to do with all that sunshine. They're well used to sharing their island with foreign visitors, so wherever you go, expect a warm welcome.
Known for its hot summers, the best time to visit Corfu is in the autumn, when the seas are warm and temperatures stay in the mid-20s well into October. The winter is mild and things start to heat up again come May.
With the sea right on their doorstep, the Corfiotes are big on marine cuisine. Fish is baked or grilled whole and served with herbs, olive oil and lemon juice.
Before marrying Liz and making a career out of putting his foot in it, Prince Philip spent his formative years in Corfu. As did naturalist Gerald Durrell, whose love of the natural world was first kindled on the Greek island.
Roger Moore raised his eyebrow to devastating effect when making Bond film For Your Eyes Only at the Achillion Palace. One of the island's giant turtles is also featured as an extra in another scene.
"Of all the wonderful and fascinating parts of the planet I have been privileged to visit, Corfu is the nearest approach to home for me." - naturalist and author Gerald Durrell
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1. Palaia Anaktora and gardens
If you're feeling regal, take a stroll around this wonderful set of old Roman buildings, which were once home to the King of Greece. Don't forget to visit the royal gardens for a peak through exotic trees at the shimmering bay below.
You can park at the Viktoros Dousmani Street car park.
2. Spianada, Corfu Town
The beating heart of Corfu Town, the huge square of the Spianada has it all - even a cricket pitch! But if the crack of leather on willow is not for you, there are plenty of bars and cafes perfect for people-watching.
The nearest car park is the Municipal Car Park in Viktoros Dousmani Street.
3. New Citadel, Corfu Town
Towering over Corfu Town, the New Citadel, or Neo Frourio, is the best place for spectacular views. Take a tour around the Venetian-built fort, then head a little way down the hill to pick up the latest catch from the fish market.
The nearest car parks are in Eleftheriou Venizelou and Siorra Vittoria.
4. Museum of Sea, Benitses
A haven for Jaws enthusiasts, the museum is a testament to one man's love of the ocean. Diver Napoleonta Sagja's collection covers sharks, corals and many other curious finds from the Greek seas.
The museum does not have its own car park, but there are several car parks scattered around Benitses.
5. Paleokastritsa Beach
Legend has it that Odysseus was shipwrecked here during one of his many adventures. As it is one of the most beautiful spots on Corfu, it's safe to say he landed on his feet. Emerging out of lush olive groves, the beach lies in a beautifully secluded cove.
Some of the beaches have parking facilities, or alternatively you can park along the coastal road.
1. Mount Pantokrator
Head to the north east of the island for stunning sea views from the island's highest peak - on a clear day you can even see Italy. Mount Pantokrator means 'The Almighty' and there is a 17th-century monastery at its summit if you're feeling spiritual.
Head north on Leoforos Alexandras, following the coastal road towards Kerkyra - the journey should take around 50 minutes.
2. Aqualand
If you've overdosed on all the cultural delights Corfu has to offer, then embrace your inner child and head to Aqualand, the island's premier water park. Restaurants, bars and apartments surround the main attraction - a cornucopia of slides, flumes and swimming pools.
Head north on Leoforos Alexandras and follow the Ethniki Odos Palaiokastritsis for around ten miles. The drive will take around half an hour.
3. Agni Bay
Agni is an oasis for anyone seeking a bit of peace and quiet. The pebble beach leads to crystal-clear waters - perfect for snorkelling. Three excellent tavernas compete to sate your appetite after a hard day's sunbathing.
Head north on Leoforos Alexandras, join the Odos Palaiokastritsis, following signs to Kentroma. Traffic permitting, the journey should take around 40 minutes.
4. Kalamaki Beach
As popular with turtles as tourists, the wide sandy beach at Kalamaki is a favourite spot for the great reptiles to lay their eggs. It's also a great place to watch the sunset, and if you fancy sticking around for the evening, there's plenty of nightlife to enjoy when the sun goes down.
Follow the Ethniki Odos Palaiokastritsis for approximately five miles, then follow the Kassiopis-Limnis towards Kassopei. The journey will take around an hour.
" The Old Town district has narrow streets, paved with cobblestones, and many streets are too narrow for vehicles to drive through. But don't restrict yourself - western Corfu features some of the island's prettiest beaches and countryside, particularly around the town of Paleokastritsa, which can be easily reached by car. Make sure you drive out to Kefalonia - it's close to Corfu and makes for a perfect day trip, offering visitors beaches, vineyards, mountain trails and plenty of history. "
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