Old Perithia and Mount Pantokrator

Old Perithia and Mount Pantokrator are in the mountainous north-east of Corfu, about 35 km north of Corfu Town and roughly one hour by road. A rental car or taxi is the practical way to reach them, since public transport is limited; the green bus to Kassiopi costs about €4.50 and requires a taxi inland. Taxi round-trip fares should be agreed in advance. The area suits April to October, with clear days giving the best views from the summit.

Old Perithia is a stone-built mountain village that was largely abandoned during the twentieth century and is now partly revived. Its Venetian-era houses, churches and small square sit under the slopes of Pantokrator, and a few tavernas operate in the square, serving local dishes such as rabbit stifado, pies and grilled meats. Walking among the ruined and restored houses takes about an hour, and there is no admission charge. Mount Pantokrator, at 906 m the highest peak on the island, is reached by a winding summit road from villages such as Spartilas or Strinilas. At the top stand a small monastery and radio masts, and views stretch across Corfu to the Albanian and Greek mainland coasts on clear days.

A good itinerary drives north via Ipsos and Nisaki in the morning, turns inland to Old Perithia for a walk and a late lunch, and then climbs to Pantokrator in the afternoon for the view. Hiking trails link Old Perithia to the summit for those with several hours and good fitness, but most visitors drive. Weather can be cooler and windier at the top, so a light jacket is useful even in summer. Because the village has few facilities, visitors should fill the fuel tank and carry water before leaving the coast.