Pelekas (Kontogialos) Beach

Pelekas Beach, also known as Kontogialos, is a sandy cove below the hilltop village of Pelekas on the west coast of Corfu, Greece, about 12 km south-west of Corfu Town. The sand is golden and fairly soft, the water is clear and blue, and the cove is framed by green cliffs and olive-covered hills that give it a more intimate feel than the larger west-coast beaches such as Glyfada. The beach is open to the west, so waves and afternoon wind can appear, but the water is generally comfortable for swimming in summer, and the shelving is moderate. The atmosphere is relaxed and informal, with a mix of couples, young travellers and families, and it is noticeably calmer than the big resorts nearby. Facilities include sunbeds and umbrellas for hire, a few tavernas along the back of the beach, and water sports such as pedalos and canoes in season. Toilets and showers are available at beach businesses. Lifeguard cover is not guaranteed, so visitors should check on arrival, particularly when waves build. Pelekas village sits on the hill above and is known for its viewpoint, called Kaiser's Throne, from which sunsets over the sea are especially popular, and many visitors combine a beach visit with an evening in the village. Access is by a winding road from the village down to the cove, with parking near the beach that tightens in July and August. A rental car or taxi is the most practical way to reach the cove, about 25 minutes from Corfu Town, as public transport is limited. The walk from the parking area to the sand is short. The season runs from June to September, with the warmest water in August. Mornings are quietest, and late afternoon brings warm light before a sunset visit to the village viewpoint. Mirtiotissa and Glyfada beaches are both within a short drive.