Top 10 Corfu & the Ionian Islands [antikvár]

Corfu and the lonians' Highlights The widely scattered Ionian islands, which lie off the western coast of mainland Greece, include Corfu (Kerkyra in Creek), Paxi, Antipaxi, Lefkäda, Kefallonia, Ithaki and Zakynthos, They are the most verdant of all the Greek islands and offer a fabulous array of attractions. Olive groves, lush forests and sleepy, rural villages lie inland, while along the coasts are year-round holiday resorts and stunning beaches. Ancient sights, including the "living museum" of the UNESCO-listed Corfu Old Town, attract history enthusiasts, and the agreeable climate makes the islands popular with sailors. Corfu Old Town The oldest part of Corfu Town is a delightful blend of architectural styles. It boasts imposing fortresses, which once offered protection, the French-style Liston, with its arcaded terraces, the tranquil Plateia Spianada and the elegant Palace of St Michael and St George. Mon Repos Estate, Corfu Built by Sir Frederick Adam, the second British Lord High Commissioner of the lonians, Mon Repos later became the summer home of the Greek royals. Within its grounds lie major archaeological finds (see PP12-13}. Achilleion Palace, Corfu A popular attraction with visitors, the Achilleion Palace was built for the Empress Elisabeth of Austria in the 1890s and later became the home of Germany's Kaiser Wilhelm II. Marvel at the collection of paintings and personal belongings of the palace's former owners (see pp14-15). l-efldmrt Archaeological Museum, Corfu Town This museum has one of the country's finest collections of ancient artifacts. It includes the stunning Gorgon Medusa pediment from the Temple of Artemis, one of the oldest pediments in the Mediterranean (see pplO-ll). Myrtou Bay Area, Kefallonia Described as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, Myrtou Bay is well known for its exquisite turquoise sea, dazzling white beach and lush surroundings. Located nearby are the picturesque villages of Divarata and Agia Effimia (see pp16-17). Preceding pages A narrow alleyway, Lefkäda Town