Makrades

Описание объекта

Makrades is a historic village on the northwest side of Corfu, 25km from Corfu Town. It is situated at the top of a lush hill, surrounded by perennial olive groves.

The village was established in the 13^th century. Tradition has it that the craftsmen who built the famous nearby Byzantine fortress of Angelokastro were the first inhabitants of Makrades. Like many other mountainous Corfiot villages, Makrades is set on the side of the hilltop that is “invisible” from the sea for protection from pirate raids back in the day.

Makrades has a distinctive architecture with beautiful stone houses, for which the rocks formations of the area were used as a building material. A walk around the village’s paved alleys will enchant you. Admire the old church and end up at the square, where you will see the locals enjoy their coffee and chat under the shade of a big plane tree.

As Makrades does not rely heavily on tourism, the main occupation of the inhabitants is agriculture. On the shelves of the few souvenir shops, you will find a variety of local products, such as extra virgin olive oil and olives, utensils and ornaments made out of olive wood, honey, jams, local wines, and traditional embroideries, like cushions and carpets.

Nearby beaches

Agios Georgios Pagon

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

Its turquoise waters and golden sand, combined 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.

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 preserved its unspoiled, primitive charm.

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

Angelokastro Castle

Angelokastro is one of the important fortresses of Byzantine origin in Greece, standing at the same point since the 7^th century.

Built 305m above the sea, it overlooks large parts of the island at the highest point of Corfu’s western coastline near Paleokastritsa. Due to its location, it was a significant vantage point for protecting the island against attacks.

Angelokastro came to prominence during the Venetian rule (1386-1797). When the Ottomans sieged the island on three occasions (1537, 1571, and 1716), the castle played an instrumental role in repulsing them.

On your way to Angelokastro, do not omit to stop by the traditional settlement of Krini, which is located at the start of the path leading to the fortress. The picturesque village with its stone houses, paved alleys, and unique views will mesmerize you.

The amazing viewpoint of Bella Vista

If you head 1.5km off Makrades, towards the direction of Lakones, you will come upon a must-see location that every person taking a holiday on Corfu must visit. It is the famous viewpoint called “Bella Vista”.

On this steep slope, you can admire unforgettable views over Corfu’s west coast, the bays of Paleokastritsa, Liapades, even Igoumenitsa on the opposite mainland coast when the sky is clear.

In Bella Vista, several restaurants are serving local Corfiot delicacies and refreshing drinks. There is also a coffee shop where you can enjoy delicious homemade desserts.

Accommodation in Makrades, Corfu

In Makrades itself, you can stay in a handful of traditional guesthouses that offer genuine Corfiot hospitality to visitors. In the surrounding area, there is an array of hotels, villas, and apartments.