A beautiful cove below a hillside monastery, long known as an informal clothing-optional beach and reached by a steep path.
Mirtiotissa Beach is a secluded sandy cove on the west coast of Corfu, Greece, below the hillside Mirtiotissa monastery near the village of Pelekas, about 17 km from Corfu Town. The beach is a strip of fine, pale sand backed by steep green cliffs, and the sea is clear and a vivid blue, deepening fairly quickly from the shore. Because it faces west, the water can carry a swell and the afternoon wind can make swimming livelier than on sheltered east-coast beaches. The cove is compact, a few hundred metres at most, and its enclosed shape gives it a remote, natural feel. It has long been known as an informal clothing-optional beach, and nudity is common, so families expecting a conventional resort beach should be aware of the atmosphere, although swimsuits are also acceptable and the mood is relaxed and quiet. Facilities are modest. A small taverna serves drinks and simple food, some umbrellas and loungers are available, and there is little organised commercial activity, which is a large part of the appeal. Lifeguard cover is not guaranteed, so visitors should take care in the swell. Access is the main challenge. The beach is reached on foot by a steep path and steps descending from the car area above the cliffs, and the climb back up is demanding in midday heat. Parking above the beach is limited and fills in the afternoon in high season. A rental car is the practical way to get there, as bus service is limited, and taxis from Corfu Town take about 30 minutes. The best season is June to September. Morning is the calmest and quietest period, while late afternoon light and sunsets suit visitors who are prepared for the climb. Visitors should bring water, sun protection and sturdy footwear, and show respect for the monastery above the beach by dressing modestly away from the sand.
| Distance | About 17 km west of Corfu Town; 30 min by road |
|---|---|
| Getting there | Rental car then a steep walk; limited bus service |
| Difficulty | hard |
| Best season | June-September |
| Address | Mirtiotissa, near Pelekas, 49100 Corfu, Greece |
Amenities
- Small taverna
- Umbrellas
- Steep access path
Good to know
- Best for
- couples, nudists, sunbathers, solo
Location
Mirtiotissa, near Pelekas, 49100 Corfu, Greece
39.5695, 19.8555 View on map
Highlights
- Secluded sandy cove beneath cliffs and a hillside monastery
- Clear deep blue water on the west coast
- Informal clothing-optional tradition with a quiet atmosphere
- Small taverna on the beach
Tips for visiting
- Wear sturdy shoes for the steep path and steps down to the sand.
- Arrive in the morning, as parking above the cliffs is limited and the climb is easier in cooler hours.
- Bring water and sun protection, as shade and facilities are limited.
- Take care in the swell, which can build on the open west coast.
- Dress modestly away from the beach out of respect for the monastery.
When to visit
June to September, with mornings calmest and late afternoon good for light and sunsets.
Accessibility
The steep path and steps make the beach unsuitable for wheelchairs and difficult for visitors with limited mobility.
Frequently asked questions
Is Mirtiotissa Beach clothing optional?
It has long been an informal clothing-optional beach, though swimsuits are also acceptable.
How hard is the walk down to the beach?
A steep path and steps lead down from the car area above, and the climb back up is demanding in heat.
How far is it from Corfu Town?
About 17 km, around 30 minutes by car. Bus service is limited.
Are there facilities on the beach?
A small taverna and some umbrellas are available, but facilities are limited.