Villa Holidays in Issos, Corfu
Issos, on Corfu’s west coast, isn’t your typical beach town. Backed by sand dunes and fringed by the vibrant Issos Lake, it offers a unique blend of natural beauty, adventure, and laid-back charm. Buckle up for an escape that’s both wild and serene.
Beach Bliss with a Twist:
Issos Beach stretches out like a golden ribbon, lapped by turquoise Ionian Sea waters. But here’s the twist: freshwater lagoons and sand dunes border the beach, creating a captivating landscape. Sunbeds and umbrellas cater to relaxation, while the shallow waters are perfect for families.
For something livelier, head north to the beach section known as “Kavos.” Here, water sports like kitesurfing and windsurfing reign supreme, offering thrills for adrenaline seekers.
Foodie Delights by the Sea:
Issos boasts a relaxed dining scene, with tavernas dotting the beachfront. Savor fresh seafood platters and local specialties like pastitsio or moussaka while gazing at the endless blue horizon.
Venture into the village to discover hidden gems like family-run tavernas serving up authentic home-cooked meals. Don’t miss the chance to try Corfu’s signature kumquat liqueur for a sweet digestif.
Beyond the Beach:
Issos beckons with adventure beyond the beach. Hike through the scenic sand dunes, feeling the soft sand between your toes and spotting unique flora and fauna.
Birdwatchers rejoice! The nearby Korission Lagoon, a protected area, shelters an abundance of bird species, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts.
For history buffs, the ruins of the 13th-century Agios Nikolaos Filatos Monastery stand sentinel on a hilltop, offering panoramic views and a glimpse into the island’s past.
Issos is more than just a beach destination; it’s an experience. With its natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and relaxed atmosphere, it promises a unique and unforgettable escape for those seeking something different from the usual Greek island fare. So, pack your sense of adventure and get ready to discover the magic of Issos.
Issos, on Corfu’s west coast, isn’t your typical beach town. Backed by sand dunes and fringed by the vibrant Issos Lake, it offers a unique blend of natural beauty, adventure, and laid-back charm. Buckle up for an escape that’s both wild and serene.
Places of interest and activities you can enjoy when going on a villa holiday in Issos:
Issos Beach: The main attraction, a long, sandy beach backed by impressive sand dunes and a cedar forest. It’s part of a protected area due to its natural beauty and ecological importance.
Lake Korission: A large and significant coastal lagoon located directly behind Issos Beach. It’s a vital wetland habitat, home to diverse birdlife, including flamingos (sometimes spotted), herons, and various migratory species. It’s separated from the sea by Issos Beach.
Sand Dunes: The impressive sand dunes behind Issos Beach are a unique feature, some reaching significant heights. They provide a natural barrier between the beach and Lake Korission and offer excellent sunset viewing points.
Cedar Forest: A rare forest of cedar trees grows along the dunes separating the beach and the lake, providing shade and a unique landscape for walks.
Chalikounas Beach: Located just north of Issos, separated by a channel connecting Lake Korission to the sea. It’s another long, sandy beach popular for water sports, especially kite surfing and windsurfing.
Agios Georgios South: A village and beach located south of Issos, offering a more traditional resort feel with tavernas, shops, and a sandy beach.
Gardiki Castle: A Byzantine fortress dating back to the 13th century, located a few kilometres inland. It’s the only surviving medieval fortress in the southern part of Corfu.
Mavroudis Family Museum and Modern Olive Oil Press (Vragkaniotika): Located a short drive away, this museum offers insights into the olive oil production history of the region, and you can witness the process.
The Governor’s Olive Mill: A historic olive mill nearby, showcasing the traditional methods of olive oil production.
For history buffs, the ruins of the 13th-century Agios Nikolaos Filatos Monastery stand sentinel on a hilltop, offering panoramic views and a glimpse into the island’s past
Activities:
Kite Surfing and Windsurfing: Issos Beach is renowned for being one of the best spots on Corfu for these wind-powered water sports due to the consistent winds. Several schools and rental facilities are available.
Swimming and Sunbathing: Enjoy the long, sandy beach with its clear and often shallow waters, ideal for swimming and relaxing under the sun.
Birdwatching: Lake Korission is a haven for bird enthusiasts. Explore the shores of the lake to spot various bird species in their natural habitat.
Hiking and Walking: Explore the trails around Lake Korission, through the cedar forest and along the sand dunes. Walking along the beach connecting to Chalikounas or towards Agios Georgios South is also popular.
Horse Riding: Several stables in the area offer horseback riding excursions along the beach and around Lake Korission, providing a unique way to experience the landscape. “Halikounas Horses” is one such stable nearby.
Cycling: The relatively flat terrain around the lake and coastal areas is suitable for cycling. You can rent bikes in nearby villages and explore the area.
Boat Trips: While Issos doesn’t have a major port, local operators in nearby Agios Georgios South or Chalikounas offer boat trips along the coast or to nearby smaller islands.
Fishing: Fishing is possible in Lake Korission, although regulations may apply. Local fishermen can sometimes be seen in the area.
Photography: The diverse landscapes, from the sand dunes and the lake to the sea and the unique flora, offer excellent opportunities for photography, especially during sunrise and sunset.
Relaxing and Enjoying Nature: The relatively unspoiled nature of the Issos area makes it perfect for those seeking a peaceful and relaxing holiday away from busier resorts.
A beachfront taverna offering traditional Greek dishes in a relaxed setting.
Specialties:
Grilled seafood: Freshly caught fish and seafood, grilled to perfection.
Greek salads: A classic combination of tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and feta.
Lamb chops: Tender and flavourful, often served with local herbs.
A popular spot for both locals and tourists, known for its vibrant atmosphere and diverse menu.
Specialties:
BBQ platters: A variety of grilled meats served with sides.
Vegetarian options: Including falafel and grilled vegetables.
Cocktails and drinks: A wide selection of beverages to complement your meal.
A family-run taverna offering authentic Greek cuisine with a focus on fresh, local ingredients.
Specialties:
Pastitsada: A Corfiot dish of beef stewed in tomato sauce with spices.
Sofrito: Veal cooked in white wine, garlic, and vinegar.
Seafood dishes: Freshly prepared with daily catches.
A seaside restaurant known for its fresh seafood and stunning views.
Specialties:
Grilled fish: Locally sourced and simply prepared to highlight natural flavours.
Meze platters: A selection of small dishes perfect for sharing.
Local wines: Pair your meal with wines from the Ionian region.
A fine dining establishment offering a fusion of Greek and Mediterranean cuisines.
Specialties:
Sea bass ceviche: Fresh fish marinated with citrus and herbs.
Grilled octopus: Tender and smoky, served with a drizzle of olive oil.
Vegetarian dishes: Innovative preparations using seasonal vegetables.
A beachfront café-bar offering a variety of dishes with a view of the sea.
Specialties:
Greek meze: A variety of small dishes including tzatziki, hummus, and dolmades.
Grilled meats: Including souvlaki and lamb chops.
Salads: Fresh and light, perfect for a summer meal.
5/5 
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