Old Perithia: Corfu's Timeless Mountain Village

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Discover Corfu's hidden gem: Explore the historic village of Old Perithia, a captivating journey into the island's rich past and natural beauty.

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Old Perithia

Escape the bustling coast and step back in time in Old Perithia, Corfu's oldest village. Nestled beneath Mount Pantokrator, this once-thriving settlement, dating back to the 14th century, offers a glimpse into a bygone era with its Venetian architecture, stone houses, and tranquil atmosphere. Explore the ruins, discover hidden churches, and savor traditional Corfiot cuisine in this unique heritage site.

A brief summary to Old Perithia

Old, Palea Peritheia, 490 81, GR
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Monday 9:30 am-11 pm
Tuesday 9:30 am-11 pm
Wednesday 9:30 am-11 pm
Thursday 9:30 am-11 pm
Friday 9:30 am-11 pm
Saturday 9:30 am-11 pm
Sunday 9:30 am-11 pm

Local tips

Wear comfortable shoes for walking on the uneven, stone-paved streets.
Arrive early, especially during peak season, as parking is limited.
Try local Corfiot specialties at one of the village's traditional tavernas.
Bring water and snacks, especially if you plan to hike.
Visit the local honey farm for a tasting of organic honey.

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Getting There

Driving

From Corfu Town, follow the coastal road north towards Kassiopi. After passing through Kassiopi, watch for signs to Old Perithia and turn inland. The drive up the mountain is steep and winding, but the road is generally well-maintained. Parking is available at the entrance to the village. Be aware that the roads are narrow and can be busy during peak season. Driving from Corfu Town to Old Perithia is approximately 50km and takes 1.25 - 1.5 hours. A taxi from Corfu Town to Old Perithia would cost approximately €50-€65. Alternatively, driving from Kassiopi or Acharavi to Old Perithia is approximately 14km and takes around 25 minutes.
Public Transport

While there is no direct bus to Old Perithia, you can take a Green Bus from Corfu Town to Kassiopi or Acharavi. From there, you can hire a taxi to complete the journey to Old Perithia. Green bus tickets from Corfu Town to Kassiopi or Acharavi range from €1.60 to €8.00. A taxi from Kassiopi to Old Perithia will cost approximately €30-€40. Ensure the driver resets the taximeter to the base fare of €3.60.

Discover more about Old Perithia

Old Perithia, cradled on the slopes of Mount Pantokrator, is a captivating journey into Corfu's past. Founded in the 14th century as a refuge from pirates, this mountain village flourished as an agricultural hub, boasting Venetian-style houses and a close-knit community.As coastal threats diminished and tourism emerged in the 20th century, residents gradually migrated towards the coast, leaving Old Perithia to slumber. Today, it stands as a protected heritage site, offering visitors a unique glimpse into a traditional Corfiot village.Wander through the narrow, stone-paved streets, explore the crumbling ruins of houses adorned with Venetian architectural details, and discover the eight churches that once served the village's spiritual needs. While many buildings remain in disrepair, a growing number are being lovingly restored, breathing new life into this historic settlement.Enjoy authentic Corfiot cuisine at one of the village's traditional tavernas, savoring local specialties made with fresh, regional ingredients. For a truly immersive experience, consider hiking to the summit of Mount Pantokrator, with Old Perithia serving as an ideal base camp. The trail rewards hikers with breathtaking panoramic views of Corfu and the Ionian Sea.Old Perithia offers a serene escape from the modern world, where visitors can connect with history, appreciate the beauty of nature, and experience the authentic charm of rural Corfu.