On the eastern coast of the ever-popular island of Corfu, the village of Benitses – or sometimes Benitses – is known for its pretty harbour and mountain backdrop. The marina area is the centre for the village’s visitor-friendly nightlife, and you will find quite a few bars and tavernas around. A large proportion of the village’s population work in tourism, although things are a little more relaxed now than they were some years ago. You have everything you are likely to need there, from restaurants and cafés to car rental and gift shops.
The village’s proximity to the island’s capital, and its nearby airport, is another reason for its popularity. It will only take about 20 minutes to make the journey down the coast. There are numerous beaches in the area too, and the coastal road which provides a scenic ocean view makes it easy to go looking for them. Another local landmark is the grand Achilleion house and gardens, originally built as a summer palace for Empress Elisabeth of Austria, and as architecturally impressive as you would imagine.
Corfu town itself Is just a little further north and has a few notable sights of its own, such as the Royal Palace which now houses a Museum of Asian Art, and the mighty fortresses – an ‘old’ and a ‘new’ one, although they both date back to the 1500s. A climb to the top of either will reward you with a spectacular view, surely a must when you’re visiting the town. Just outside the town is Mon Repos, another house with a Royal connection, as the birthplace of the Duke of Edinburgh.
Perhaps one of the greatest pleasures of Corfu town is taking a stroll along the Esplanade. You can take a break in the large Spianada park, where most public gatherings in Corfu take place, or in one of the cafés of the Liston, overlooking the well-kept lawns of the Esplanade.