Diapontia Islands (Othonoi, Mathraki, Ereikoussa)

The Diapontia Islands (Othonoi, Mathraki and Ereikoussa) lie about 30-50 km north-west of Corfu, at the far western edge of Greece, and are among the most remote inhabited islands in the Ionian. The Kerkyra Lines ferry from Corfu port takes about 3-4 hours each way, which is why the trip is usually done as an overnight stay rather than a true day trip. Fares are low, at about €10.90-11.30 to Othonoi and about €10.30 to Mathraki, and an inter-island hop from Mathraki to Othonoi costs about €2.40 and takes roughly 35 minutes. Sailings vary by season and weather, so the day's timetable must be confirmed before travelling.

Each island has its own character. Othonoi is the largest, with a small harbour at Ammos, a handful of tavernas and rural paths that climb through olive and fig trees toward the village of Chorio and viewpoints over the sea. Mathraki is smaller and has quiet beaches, including Portelo, with a few rooms and tavernas. Ereikoussa has long sandy beaches such as Porto and Bragini, set against a gentle landscape of cypress and farmland. Visitors come mainly for swimming, walking and a slow pace, as there is very little organised sightseeing or nightlife.

Because of the long crossing, anyone attempting a single-day visit has only a short window on the islands and should plan around the ferry schedule. A more realistic arc is to sail in the morning, walk to a beach, eat lunch at a village taverna, and stay overnight in simple rooms before returning the next day. Food is basic and based on local fish, vegetables and olive oil, and supplies are limited, so cash and water are worth carrying. June to September is the best window, when services run more reliably and the water is warm.