The Corfu Trail is a long-distance hiking trail that spans the length of the Greek island of Corfu, located in the Ionian Sea. The trail covers approximately 220 kilometers (137 miles) from the southernmost point of the island to its northernmost tip. It passes through varied terrain, including olive groves, rugged coastlines, rolling hills, and mountainous regions, providing hikers with a diverse and challenging experience.
The trail was created in 2001 by a group of volunteers who wanted to promote eco-tourism on the island and showcase its natural beauty. The Corfu Trail is not an official government-sanctioned trail, but rather a community-led initiative that relies on volunteers to maintain and promote it.
The Corfu Trail originally was divided into 10 sections (stages), each with its own unique features and challenges. A newer version of the trial was created in 2016 that includes 2 additional stages, making it a total of 12 stages. The additional stages provide hikers with more options for shorter or longer days, depending on their preference and time constraints.
In 2016 the Corfu Trail has been expanded and upgraded to include 12 stages instead of the original 10. This expansion allows hikers to explore even more of the island’s stunning landscapes, including additional coastal areas, forests, and historical sites. The upgraded trail also provides hikers with more options for shorter or longer hikes, depending on their preferences and time constraints. It also allows hikers to to explore even more of the island’s stunning landscapes, including additional coastal areas, forests, and historical sites.
Overall, the Corfu Trail offers a unique and challenging hiking experience for outdoor enthusiasts looking to explore the beautiful Greek island of Corfu.
What are the Corfu Trail Stages
- Kavos to Lefkimi
- Lefkimi to Agios Georgios Argyradon
- Agios Georgios Argyradon to Ano Pavliana
- Ano Pavliana to Benitses
- Benitses to Pelekas
- Pelekas to Liapades
- Liapades to Agios Georgios (North)
- Agios Georgios to Rekini
- Rekini to Spartylas
- Spartylas to Kaminaki
- Kaminaki to Old Perithia
- Old Perithia to Agios Spyridonas
The trail starts in the village of Kavos in the south of the island and passes through a variety of landscapes, including olive groves, pine forests, rocky mountains, and stunning beaches. Along the way, hikers will encounter traditional villages, ancient ruins, monasteries, and other cultural and historical sites.
Why Start from the South?
Starting from the south allows hikers to gradually acclimate to the trail’s increasing difficulty level as they move northward. The early stages of the trail are relatively easy and provide hikers with the opportunity to get their hiking legs and enjoy the views, while the later stages are more challenging and physically demanding.
Furthermore, the southern part of Corfu is less developed and less crowded than the northern part, which makes it an ideal starting point for hikers who want to experience the island’s natural beauty without the distraction of too many tourists.
Starting the Corfu Trail from the south is a strategic decision that allows hikers to have the best possible experience on the trail, both in terms of the natural beauty of the island and the physical demands of the hike.
What is the best time of year to do the Corfu trail?
The best time of year to do the Corfu Trail is from April to early June and from September to early November. During these months, the weather is generally mild, with temperatures ranging from 15-25°C (59-77°F), and there is less chance of rainfall compared to the summer months.
Spring, from April to early June, is an ideal time to do the Corfu Trail as the island is in bloom with wildflowers and the weather is mild and pleasant for hiking. The countryside is green, and the streams and rivers are flowing, making it a beautiful time to explore the island’s natural beauty. However, hikers should be aware that the trails may be muddy in places due to the spring rain.
Autumn, from September to early November, is also a good time to do the Corfu Trail as the weather is cooler, and there are fewer tourists on the island. The countryside is also beautiful during this time of year, with the leaves changing colours, and the weather is generally sunny and mild, making it perfect for hiking. However, hikers should be aware that the weather can be more unpredictable in the autumn months, and there may be some rainfall.
The summer months, from July to August, are not the best time to do the Corfu Trail as temperatures can reach over 30°C (86°F), and the trails can be crowded with tourists. The high temperatures and humidity can make hiking challenging, and there is a higher chance of dehydration and heat exhaustion. The trails may also be dry and dusty, making the experience less enjoyable.
Overall the best time to do the Corfu Trail is in the spring or autumn months when the weather is mild, and there are fewer tourists on the island. Hikers should also check the weather forecast before embarking on the trail and be prepared for any unexpected changes in the weather.
Stage 1 of Corfu Trail – Kavos to Lefkimmi
Distance: Approximately 14 km (8.7 miles)
Estimated time: 4-5 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
This stage begins at the southernmost point of the island, Kavos, and follows the coastline to the town of Lefkimmi. The trail passes through several beaches, including Arkoudilas and Asprokavos, as well as some small villages. Along the way, hikers can enjoy views of the Ionian Sea and the Albanian coastline. The trail is relatively flat and easy to follow, although there are some rocky sections and steep climbs in places. The town of Lefkimmi marks the end of this stage, where hikers can rest and explore the local area.
Points of interest:
- Kavos: a lively tourist town with many bars, restaurants, and shops
- Arkoudilas Beach: a secluded beach with crystal clear waters
- Asprokavos Beach: a sandy beach with shallow waters
- Lefkimmi: a traditi
onal town with a Venetian castle, churches, and a market square.
Stage 2 Lefkimi to Agios Georgios Argyradon
Distance: 25 km
Estimated time: 7 hours Difficulty: Moderate
The route takes you through picturesque villages, olive groves, and vineyards. You will also pass by the ruins of a Venetian castle and a traditional Corfiot mansion. Along the way, you can also take a detour to explore the beautiful sandy beach of Santa Barbara. Description: The trail starts from the town of Lefkimi and takes you through the villages of Vitalades, Perivoli, and Argyrades. You will then follow the coast to the south, passing by the ruins of the Kavos Tower, before turning inland to reach the village of Agios Georgios Argyradon. The trail is well-marked and mostly flat, with some gradual ascents and descents. There are several opportunities to stop for refreshments and snacks along the way, as well as some shaded rest areas. Overall, this stage offers a great introduction to the rural and coastal landscapes of Corfu.