Kalami Beach

Kalami Beach is a small, quiet pebble cove on the north-east coast of Corfu, Greece, about 30 km north of Corfu Town. The shore is made of smooth pebbles, the water is calm, clear and a deep blue-green, and cypress-covered hills rise directly behind the bay, while the Albanian mainland is visible across the channel. The cove is short and sheltered, so the sea is typically gentle, and swimming is pleasant from the shore, although the water deepens quickly. Kalami is closely associated with the writer Lawrence Durrell, who lived in the white house on the edge of the bay in the 1930s and wrote about the island in Prospero's Cell, and the house at the water's edge is a point of interest for literary visitors. The atmosphere is peaceful and unhurried, aimed at couples and relaxed holidaymakers rather than at crowds or night-time entertainment. Taverna tables sit practically at the water's edge, with sunbeds available for hire, and there is parking nearby, although the road is narrow and fills in the high season. Toilets are available at the tavernas. Water sports are limited, and the beach is best suited to swimming, sunbathing and long lunches. Lifeguard cover is not guaranteed. Kalami is roughly 50 minutes from Corfu Town by road, and a rental car or taxi is the practical way to reach it because bus service is limited. The coast road is winding and narrow in places, so careful driving is needed. The best season is June to September. Morning is quiet and bright, while late afternoon brings warm light on the bay and the tavernas become more popular. Nearby coves such as Agni and Kerasia, and the village of Kassiopi to the north, can be reached by car or by boat for a different setting.