Benitses

Beschreibung

Located 12km south of Corfu Town, on the road to Lefkimmi, Benitses is a picturesque fishing village that turned into a spectacular seaside tourist resort without losing its traditional character and authentic beauty.

It was in the ’70s that tourism started booming in the area. Before that, Benitses was a sleepy village, which lived from fishing and olive oil production. Growing tourism turned the settlement into a cosmopolitan hub, the first of its kind on Corfu. In the present day, Benitses is a hotspot combining all modern amenities with stunning nature and a great outdoors.

The village’s beach is not very big, but it is beautiful and fully organized with sunbeds, umbrellas, and watersport facilities. Due to the abundant presence of the aquatic plant „Posidonia“ in the area, which filters harmful substances, the waters of Benitses are among the cleanest ones in the Mediterranean. This beach is also of historical importance, as it was the favorite swimming spot of Emperor Wilhelm II (the „Kaiser“) at the beginning of the 20^th century.

The crystal clear waters of Benitses provide fresh fish of top quality. The village is world-famous for its fish taverns. During the summer season, many visitors flock to Benitses marina with yachts and sailing boats to taste the incredible fish and dive in the refreshing waters.

Besides sea life, Benitses is also renowned for its verdant natural surroundings. It is a hiker’s paradise, with trails leading to spots of unparalleled beauty, featuring waterfalls, streams, bridges, and lush vegetation. Wanderers will also come upon the ruins of a Roman villa with baths. On the floor of the villa, there is a colorful mosaic with geometric shapes.

Benitses Nearby Beaches

Agios Gordios

Agios Gordios is a top-rated beach on the west coast of Central Corfu. It is sandy with azure waters. It is fully organized with umbrellas and sunbeds. Along the coast, there is a selection of tavernas that serve delicious cuisine.

The beach took its name from the homonymous saint, the area’s patron. What makes Agios Gordios genuinely unique is the stunning lush green backdrop of the mountain just behind the beach, which creates a beautiful contrast with the turquoise waters and the golden sand.

At the southern tip of the beach, there is a rock in the sea called Ortholithi. Gazing it from afar, it is impressive as it looks like a sunk ship.

Agios Ioannis Peristeron

Agios Ioannis Peristeron is a 2.5km-long beach, 4km south of Benitses. Located in a tranquil setting, away from crowds, the beach is half sand, half small pebbles. Besides the long stretches, there are also small coves for those looking for more privacy.

Agios Ioannis Peristeron is partially organized, with sunbeds and umbrellas on one side only. It also covers people seeking thrills during their beach day, with inflatable rides in the water, scuba diving, jet-skiing, and much more. There are numerous taverns and restaurants right on the beach, allowing you to try fresh seafood and local specialties on the waves.

Things to do and see in the area of Benitses, Corfu

Achillion Palace

The Achillion Palace is just a short 5-min drive from Benitses. It is one of the most significant landmarks of Corfu and an impressive sight to see.

It was built in Gastouri for the Empress Elisabeth of Austria, also known as Sissi. Sissi sought refuge in Achillion in an effort to escape her life’s tragedies. A year before the palace was constructed, she had lost her son, Prince Rudolph of Austria.

The palace was designed by Italian architect Rafaelle Caritto. Sissi was a known philhellene who admired to a great extent Greece and its culture. So, inspiration was drawn from Greek mythology. Ernst Herter, a famous German sculptor, was commissioned to create works of art that paid homage to Achilles, who the palace took its name after. His sculpture Dying Achilles is the centerpiece of the estate’s gardens.

After Sissi’s death, Achillion was purchased by German Kaiser Wilhelm II to be used as a summer residence. After World War I, it became the property of the Greek state.

After 20 years of leasing as a casino (1962-1983), the palace returned to the Hellenic Tourism Organization and now operates as a museum.

Kaiser’s Bridge

Located just below the Achillion estate, Kaiser’s Bridge is an architectural marvel. German Emperor Wilhelm II, known as „Kaiser“, had it built after acquiring the Achillion Palace from Austrian Empress Sissi, at the beginning of the 20^th century.

The Bridge connected the lower part of the Achillion gardens with the beach. The Kaiser used it to take his swims in privacy and welcome his honorable guests arriving at the pier.

The Bridge formed an arch over the road that passes beneath it. The arch was blown up by the Nazis during the island’s German occupation so that their vehicles could cross the point without height restrictions.

Accommodation in Benitses, Corfu

Being a cosmopolitan resort, Benitses offers a wealth of accommodation options for those wishing to stay in the area, such as luxury hotels, studios, villas, and apartments.