Afionas

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Afionas is a beautiful village situated on a rocky peninsula on the northwest side of Corfu, north of Paleokastritsa, which separates the bay of Agios Georgios (Pagon) from the bay of Arillas. Corfu town is 33km away.

Located at an altitude of 113m, Afionas offers magnificent views of the Ionian Sea and the Diapontia Islands. It is a historic village, one of the oldest settlements in Corfu. It stands out for its many renovated and well-preserved colorful stone houses and narrow cobbled streets, which are a delight to stroll around. The road leading to Afionas ends at the village’s square, so visitors must remember that they will have to park the car at the village’s entrance and walk.

The origin of the name Afionas is subject to debate. According to the most popular theory, the village took its name from “afioni”, a grape cultivar thriving exclusively on the island. There is also another version of a mythological nature: it was Amphion, Ivi’s brother, that the settlement was named after.

Just off the coast of Afionas, at a short distance, there is a rocky islet called Karavi. Legend has it that it is the ship of Ulysses, petrified by Poseidon.

Nearby beaches

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Porto Timoni

Porto Timoni is a very famous twin beach of stunning natural beauty. Essentially, it consists of two small beaches separated by a narrow strip of lush land. The one on the left is called Limni and has turquoise waters. Porto Timoni on the right is darker.

Porto Timoni is not suitable for the faint-hearted. Its location makes it only accessible via narrow paths descending from Afionas or by boat from Agios Georgios. As it is a non-organized beach, inaccessible by car, it has managed to preserve its unspoiled, primitive charm.

Agios Georgios Pagon

Agios Georgios Pagon is one of the most beautiful beaches on the island. It is located to the south of Afionas, along a horseshoe-shaped bay.

Its turquoise waters and golden sand, in combination with its quietness, make it a preferred destination for families and people who seek a relaxed, tranquil holiday. All modern amenities are present, and there are umbrellas and sunbeds for rent. However, for those who do not want to limit themselves to just sunbathing, there are all sorts of fun water-based activities: scuba diving (lessons can be arranged), jet ski, windsurf, water ski, SUP, and much more. You can also rent a boat and visit the nearby Porto Timoni or the Diapontia Islands.

Agios Georgios Pagon is a fully developed resort with many accommodation and dining options on the beach and in the settlement.

Arillas

Arillas is a renowned coastal settlement to the north of Afionas, with a fantastic beach that attracts many domestic and foreign visitors during the summer months.

The beach is sandy, and it has crystal clear shallow waters. Therefore, it is a popular destination for families with small children. Its westward orientation offers unforgettable nightfalls, with the sun diving into the Ionian Sea behind the desolate islands of Sykia, Gynaika, and Gravia (which are just opposite to the beach).

Arillas is a fully organized resort, with many restaurants along the coast serving different cuisine types. There are supermarkets, tourist shops, and all kinds of accommodation options, such as studios, apartments, and hotels.

Things to do and see in Afionas, Corfu

Afionas is a paradise for lazy strolls and hiking. Besides wandering around the village’s narrow streets with the colorful houses and the blooming gardens, visitors can also check out the main church of Afionas, which dates from 1636 and marks the era when the first contemporary residents settled here.

Down the path that leads to Porto Timoni, you can admire the remnants of the medieval fortifications that protected the area from pirates and corsairs.

At the tip of the peninsula after Porto Timoni, or “Murgi’s Head” as the locals call it, the small church of Agios Stylianos is nestled in a cave. The church’s unique ambiance and the unobstructed views of the open sea it offers make it a memorable visit.