The truth is that they are known for their excellent cleanliness and homely atmosphere, but Nostalgia Apartments are more than that! They are environmentally friendly.

When we created Nostalgia Apartments we took care of the comfort of our guests, the beautiful atmosphere and the provision of all kinds of information and advice for an unforgettable holiday in Corfu. But we have not only taken care of our guests, we have also taken care of the environment!

AGAPI APARTMENT

ARMONIA APARTMENT

ELPIDA APARTMENT

GALINI APARTMENT

HARA APARTMENT

The right infrastructure for eco-friendly accommodation in Corfu island.

We installed solar water heaters in all the apartments.

We installed double-glazed windows to maintain the temperature in the rooms without wasting energy.

We have installed air conditioners with eco-mode that maintain a perfect temperature at 26C without wasting energy.

We use LED bulbs in all the lighting in the rooms.

We have installed motion sensors to turn on and off the lights in all public areas.

We use refillable bottles for all detergents and shampoos to reduce plastic packaging.

To help us in our efforts, and especially to help the environment, please:

Use air conditioners in eco mode at 26 degrees for a constant comfortable temperature.

Make sure you use water wisely in the bathroom, when brushing your teeth and shaving.

Use water wisely when washing dishes.

Close doors and windows tightly to maintain the temperature indoors.

Keep mosquito screens closed so you don’t have to use chemical mosquito repellents, which are harmful to you and the environment.

Don’t overload the washing machine, but don’t run it nearly empty either, and use the right amount of detergent.

Separate waste into different streams for proper recycling.

Sustainability is our philosophy.

With Nostalgia Apartments we have created a hospitable complex for your stay in Corfu. The facilities, the location, the attention to detail create the best conditions for our guests to have an unforgettable holiday in Corfu. However, this is not enough if we do not anticipate the Corfu of the future. Of course we would do the same in any part of the world if we were in any part of the world, because Corfu is just one part of our beautiful planet that is our beautiful home!

So we strive for sustainability in our daily practices.

We use less electricity

We use less chemical detergents

We use the strong Greek sun to produce energy.

We recycle waste according to the guidelines of the Corfu Municipality.

We follow the news about the environment and are always ready to take the appropriate measures to help it.

Corfu, an ideal place for eco-friendly holidays.

Corfu is a large island full of lush vegetation. The many rainy days a year that are characteristic of Corfu, apart from the romantic atmosphere, water the land and give life to the greenery.

In spite of the tourist development, there are large natural areas, wetlands and nature reserves all over the island.

The road network, although not ideal, is very extensive, so you can use public transport to visit many places and also spend less petrol than you would on a peripatetic road network.

Over the last few decades more and more people have become aware of this and are making sure that they leave as small a footprint as possible when on holiday in Corfu.

We suggest you become one of them, as we are at Nostalgia Apartments. How do you do it?

By producing as little waste as possible, especially plastic.

By consuming as few plastic products or products in large plastic packaging as possible.

By using reusable bags.

Reduce your use of chemicals and cosmetics.

Make smart journeys without unnecessary driving.

Loving life on a planet that needs our practical love!

Finally, if you have chosen Nostalgia Apartments for your stay, we are sure you will do all of the above and more.

To book for the 2024 season, take a look at the eco-friendly Nostalgia Apartments and check availability.

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First, Corfu, because of its physiognomy, is beautiful every season of the year. It has a town that offers several activities and traditional settlements that even in bad weather are wonderfully romantic!

We have gathered suggestions to enjoy the rainy days in Corfu making unique memories!

How to spend a rainy day in Corfu: Coffee first!

The Old Town is full of small streets, between the old buildings with their beautiful front doors and wooden windows. Every now and then a kind lady turns the corner with careful little steps to avoid slipping on the old flagstones. Every now and then a bourgeois holds his umbrella so that a lady who came down from the house can cross the street. And every now and then shopkeepers come out and pick up the dry leaves in front of their shops to allow the water to run off unhindered. All this and more can be enjoyed through the glass windows of a beautiful café while the drops roll before your eyes, making the sight even more romantic.

We recommend Puppet and Bristol on Eugeniou Voulgareos Street.

If on the other hand, you want to let your eyes wander around the large square and the Old Fortress, sit at Josephine or Liston Gastrotheque in the historic Liston building that reminds you of Paris!

Small breaths of culture.

Municipal Gallery of Corfu, artist: Georgios Samartzis

Pick a museum and love it!

We recommend:

The Archaeological Museum: located on the outskirts of the Old Town, on Vraila Armeni Street, a few meters from the magical bay of Garitsa, which becomes particularly charming when the weather is wild. The archaeological museum hosts important findings from all the ancient historical periods of Corfu.

The living museum Casa Parlante in the center of the Old Town: This is an old house that recreates in a very realistic way the life of an urban family in the city.

The Municipal Gallery: it hosts great works of Corfu painters and in a way tells the history of Corfu. The space is classy and very welcoming.

The National Gallery, Alexandros Soutsos in the village of Korakiana: this is a branch of the National Gallery of Greece. It hosts works of the most important Greek artists and is a comprehensive, fascinating tour of the art of Greece. You will need transport to get there.

Beauty & Wellness.

photo by Aurelia SPA

A rainy day is ideal for relaxation.

We suggest you experience it to the fullest at the luxurious Aurelia Spa by choosing body or facial massage and surrendering your senses to the experienced hands of trained beauticians.

Another more affordable option is the Golden Salon in the modern town where you can get manicures, pedicures, massages and rejuvenating facials.

Shop!

The Alley Project Corfu

Keep your umbrella handy, wear safe shoes, and browse the interesting shops of the Old and Modern Town. Find clothes, shoes, cosmetics, objects, jewelry, linens, and anything else you want to acquire!

We recommend some shops you will love:

Antikeri in Town Hall Square: it is a small shop with objects, jewelry, and accessories of sophisticated aesthetics chosen with persistence and taste by the Italian owner.

The Alley Project: the shop where everything is unique, from the mugs to the clothes and that will remind you of Corfu every moment. It is located on Agios Vasileiou Street in the heart of the city.

NOMI: Buy from Nomi packaged pure products of the Greek land and take them with you to taste Greece all year round from your homeland.

Eat!

Pomo D’ Oro Restaurant

Eat souvlaki at Pane e Souvlaki in Town Hall Square, Greek casserole dishes at Chrysomallis in the most central street of the Old Town, gourmet Mediterranean cuisine at Pomo D’ Oro, authentic Italian cuisine at Tavola Calda.

If you prefer a souvlaki on the hand, go for Pikantiko in the Piazza area.

Drink!

Liston Gastrotheque

The Old Town offers many places for fascinating cocktails and good music. We recommend Liston Gastrotheque, Vittori and Bristol.

Alternative proposals in the countryside.

Visit The Governor olive oil mill in South Corfu and discover the magical world of olive oil, from the cultivation of the olive tree to the bottling of the golden liquid. Buy a bottle of the precious contents and take it home to flavor your fine dishes. For the visit, you will need to rent a car or use public transportation (35km from Nostalgia Apartments).

Visit the Ambelonas Vineyard in Triklino village and discover the magical world of wine production from the cultivation of the vine to the enjoyment in the glass. You can have lunch at the Vineyard. You will need a car (18 km from Nostalgia Apartments)

Remember, rain can add a unique charm to your travel experience, allowing you to explore Corfu in a different light.

At Nostalgia Corfu Town Apartments, we always have the best suggestions for you to spend unforgettable days in Corfu!

Take advantage and enjoy!

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The weather is wonderful as it is very summery but at the same time very clear from the light breeze. In general, the atmosphere is the most pleasant of the whole year.

The organized beaches are at their best because they remain cosmopolitan without being overwhelmingly crowded. The unspoiled beaches are simply magical! The villages are fabulous while the town (just a 10-minute walk from Nostalgia Corfu Town Apartments) is at its best. It has lots of visitors in the beautiful streets, restaurants, and sightseeing while the clean atmosphere makes the days and nights more enjoyable.

We recommend the most beautiful things to do in Corfu in September:

Beaches.

Visit Glyfada Beach, Myrtiotissa Beach, and Paleokastritsa Beach for their crystal-clear waters and beautiful surroundings.

Enjoy water sports like snorkeling, kayaking, and windsurfing at various beaches.

Water Activities.

Enjoy various water activities such as boat trips, snorkeling, and scuba diving in the clear waters of the Ionian Sea.

Old Town of Corfu.

Wander through Corfu Town’s Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with its narrow streets, Venetian architecture, and charming squares.

Explore historical sites such as the Old Fortress, the Museum of Asian Art and Casa Parlante live little museum in the centre of the town.

Achilleion Palace.

Visit the Achilleion Palace, a neoclassical mansion built for Empress Elisabeth of Austria, also known as Sisi. The palace offers beautiful gardens and stunning views of the surrounding area.

Paleokastritsa.

Explore the picturesque village of Paleokastritsa, known for its lush greenery and stunning coastal scenery.

Take a boat tour to visit the caves and secluded coves along the coastline.

Hiking and Nature.

Go hiking in the Corfu countryside or explore the Corfu Trail, a long-distance hiking route that offers beautiful views of the island.

Visit the Corfu Butterfly Valley, where thousands of butterflies gather.

Greek Cuisine.

Savor traditional Greek dishes at local tavernas and restaurants. Don’t forget to try Corfu’s specialties, “Sofrito”, “Pastitsada”,  “Bianco” and “Bourdeto”.

Ask us for restaurant and taverna suggestions.

Shopping.

Visit local markets to sample fresh produce and regional products.

Read more about what to buy from Corfu here.

Cultural Events.

Check if there are any local festivals or events happening during your visit in September. Corfu in September often hosts concerts, art exhibitions and other cultural events.

Wine Tasting.

Corfu is known for its vineyards and wine production. Visit a local winery to taste some excellent Greek wines. We suggest you  Ambelonas at Triklino area https://ambelonas-corfu.gr/ and  Pontiglio in South Corfu  https://pontiglio.gr/

Olive oil tasting.

Visit the olive mills that produce extra virgin olive oil, a real super food that you can taste and buy to take with you in safe packaging.

We suggest you the oil mills “The Governor”   https://www.thegovernor.gr/  and Olithea  https://olithea.gr/ both in South Corfu.

Explore the villages.

In the South, in Middle Corfu, and in the North, there are beautiful villages that keep the atmosphere of past centuries. Walk along the narrow streets, observe the houses, the arches, the cafes, and if you are lucky, you may see the pressing of the grapes for the wine of the year right in front of your eyes.

Relaxation.

Take advantage of the quieter beaches and peaceful atmosphere to unwind and enjoy Greek hospitality.

You can also book a SPA that will rejuvenate you and offer you relaxation and well-being.

Beautiful September.

The weather favors beautiful activities in September in Corfu. The whole island is so beautiful, the lush vegetation is refreshed by the pleasant weather, and the sea waters are clear. The locals are more relaxed after the intensity of the summer season and, the pace has returned to normal. This means that Corfu can offer maximum relaxation and joy to its visitors.

If you have decided to make the most of all the above, check availability at Nostalgia Corfu Apartments, the apartments that are located in the perfect spot to enjoy your holiday in Corfu!

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With the first walk through the Old Town, the Modern Town, and the villages of the island, you will see many local delicacies, leather goods, decorations, and much more! You’ll most likely want to take them all!

Since your suitcase can’t hold all of Corfu’s market and you obviously need some money for the trip home, we’ve prepared a list for your shopping in Corfu! We have gathered the most representative items you can take home to remind you all winter long of your fantastic summer holidays in Corfu!

Local sweets

Be sure to buy a jar of kumquat spoon sweets. This fruit arrived in Corfu from Japan in the 19th century. Since then, it has been steadily cultivated, both for its beautiful appearance and for its special taste and aroma.

Enjoy kumquat spoon sweet on its own as a dessert, put it in your yogurt, or serve it on top of a cake or sweet tart.

If you’re gifting it as a souvenir from Corfu, give your friends the ideas above to enjoy it.

Olive Oil

Corfu is famous for its high-quality olive oil. Purchase a bottle or two to take home, as it can add a delicious Mediterranean touch to your cooking and make for a great gift for friends and family.

Choose glass or ceramic bottles of local fine extra virgin olive oil. Because it is dangerous to break buy small size bottles, put them in a plastic bag and then wrap them tightly in towels each individually.

Keep in mind that this is a delicatessen super food, which is eaten raw, on top of a salad, in a meal, or as an appetizer with fresh bread.

Tip: apply a drop to your skin before bedtime. Wake up in the morning with velvety, vibrant skin!

Local Wine

Greece, including Corfu, produces excellent wines. Explore the local vineyards and shops to discover some unique bottles of Greek wine that you will take back home as a gift or for yourself.

Prefer the variety of Kakotrygis. It is the most characteristic Corfiot variety of white wine with a distinctive taste and aroma.

If it is hard enough to take bottles with you, just drink wine in your lovely apartment at Nostalgia Corfu Town Apartments, enjoying it in its homeplace!

Decorative

While shopping in Corfu, you will discover very interesting ceramic objects, wooden utensils, and embroidery items. Be careful: not everything is authentic! Look for the shops that have unique pieces, you will stand out! Ask the owner where they are made and what each one means. The more authentic your purchase is, the more nostalgic it will remind you of your holiday in Corfu.

Leather goods

How about a pair of sandals that will tell your own Greek legend for many years to come? Sandals might be a wonderful idea as a gift for your loved ones too. They are affordable, durable, and very Greek! Wherever you wear them, you’ll feel a bit like a Greek, or rather an ancient Greek, since their design is inspired by ancient Greece.

Dried herbs

The Greek countryside is very rich in herbs. Herbs offer taste and health benefits! Their beneficial properties have been known since ancient times. Get oregano for salad (oregano is nature’s most powerful antioxidant), thyme for chicken, sage for chicken and also as a drink for stomachache, mint for colds, chamomile for insomnia, and rosemary for baked potatoes. You can take lots of small, small bags and give them to your friends because they cost very little.

Tip: go to the grocery stores where the locals shop to find good quality, freshly packaged dried herbs.

In the town market, you will also find many more items, such as clothes, linens, jewelry, and more. Enjoy the experience, strike up a conversation with the shopkeepers and of course, enjoy a cold coffee or a cool glass of wine in the beautiful alleys when you’ve finished shopping! You are sure to be very happy and love shopping in Corfu.

Enjoy!

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It’s true that Corfu is known for its stunning natural beauty and diverse landscapes, making it a popular destination for summer holidays. The fact that there are various beaches with different characteristics adds to the appeal of the island. Being close to the city center, Nostalgia Corfu Town Apartments seems to offer a convenient location for exploring the southern beaches of Corfu. With easy access to the coast, you’ll have the opportunity to visit and enjoy the crystal-clear waters, golden sands, and picturesque surroundings.

During your stay, you can take your time to explore the different beaches around Corfu and discover your favorites. Whether you prefer pebbly or sandy beaches, or whether you’re drawn to the turquoise or deep blue waters, you’ll have a range of options to choose from. Additionally, the varied geography of the island means that you can explore beaches in different directions, whether in the north, south, west, or east.

Make sure to take advantage of the beautiful scenery and relax by the beach, taking in the enchanting atmosphere that Corfu has to offer. Enjoy your time exploring the beaches and creating unforgettable memories on this stunning Mediterranean island!

We have gathered them for you with a little information about each one!

Kavos Beach

Located in the southernmost part of Corfu, Kavos Beach is a popular destination for sun-seekers and party enthusiasts. It stretches along the coast, offering a vibrant atmosphere with beach bars, water sports, and lively entertainment options. In Kavos you can enjoy carelessness and a relaxed holiday but keep an eye out. It’s the perfect place for parties! Always remember that the return trip is about 40 km.

Agios Gordios (South) Beach

Nestled between lush green hills, Agios Gordios Beach is a hidden gem that captures the essence of natural beauty. The golden sandy beach is surrounded by cliffs and offers breathtaking views of the Ionian Sea. It’s an ideal spot for relaxation, swimming, and enjoying stunning sunsets. You can use the facilities of the beach bar or retreat to one of the golden bays and enjoy the tranquility of the beautiful natural environment.

Issos Beach

Situated in the southwest part of the island, Issos Beach is a vast stretch of golden sand dunes that merge with a shallow lagoon. This unique landscape creates a tranquil and picturesque setting. Issos Beach is perfect for long walks, sunbathing, and exploring the diverse flora and fauna of the surrounding area. It’s such a great beach that it gives you the chance to be part of the party or be the happy hermit you’ve always dreamed of being. If you retreat to its pristine sides, don’t forget water and an umbrella.

Santa Barbara Beach

Located near the village of Agios Georgios, Santa Barbara Beach is a pristine and unspoiled paradise. With its clear turquoise waters and fine golden sand, this beach offers a tranquil atmosphere away from the crowds. It’s an excellent choice for nature lovers and those seeking serenity. Take water and an umbrella with you. You are ready to indulge in the beauty and serenity of the magical landscape.

Prasoudi Beach

Tucked away on the southwestern coast of Corfu, Prasoudi Beach is a hidden treasure with its rugged cliffs, pebbly shore, and azure waters. Surrounded by olive groves and cypress trees, this beach exudes a serene ambiance, making it an ideal escape for peace and solitude. After swimming, you can enjoy an ouzo in the tavern overlooking the blue sea and sky.

Halikounas Beach

Situated on the western coast of Corfu, Halikounas Beach is a breathtaking stretch of golden sand that extends for several kilometers. Backed by sand dunes and bordered by the stunning Lake Korission, this beach offers a unique and unspoiled natural landscape. Halikounas Beach is also a popular destination for windsurfing and kitesurfing enthusiasts. It is the longest beach of Corfu. You choose the spot you prefer and enjoy a perfect summer experience!

Marathias Beach

Located in a secluded bay on the southwest coast, Marathias Beach captivates visitors with its pristine beauty and calm atmosphere. The shallow turquoise waters are perfect for swimming, while the soft sand invites you to relax and soak up the sun. Marathias Beach also offers a few tavernas where you can enjoy delicious local cuisine.

Ask us!

Whether you’re seeking vibrant beachfront entertainment or tranquil seclusion, the beautiful southern beaches of Corfu are sure to fulfill your desires. With their stunning landscapes and inviting waters, these beaches create an unforgettable experience for every visitor lucky enough to explore this captivating region.

At Nostalgia Corfu Town Apartments the most important thing is your absolute satisfaction whatever your lifestyle! That’s why we are at your disposal if you want to inform you about your travel, the choice of beaches to swim, and even the places you want to go for drinks and food. Just ask us!

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1. Let’s start with the clothes.

Choose your most comfortable clothes, not forgetting two things: firstly, Corfu is very humid. This means that it’s a good idea to take a cardigan or a light spring jacket. It is advisable to bring a thin packable one so that it fits in your bag and you can carry it with you at all times.

The second thing to keep in mind is that Corfu, apart from its beautiful natural environment and sightseeing, is a cosmopolitan island. It has fine-dining restaurants, bistros and bars that you will definitely want to visit. At the same time, there are concerts and various social events held in Corfu throughout the year that you might want to attend. So it is important to bring at least one outfit suitable for a night out. It could be a light dress for ladies and long trousers with a linen shirt for men. It doesn’t have to be too formal but something elegant that will make you feel good in a sophisticated setting.

2. The shoes

We suggest you travel with sneakers. They are the most suitable shoes to take you from morning to night in Corfu.

You can wear them on your walk in the Old Town. They will be comfortable on your tour of the Old Fortress. There are very interesting tours you’ll be happy you joined. Also, during your stay at the Nostalgia Corfu Apartments, sneakers are just right for the town centre every day or to walk to the surrounding shops. They will be indispensable on your trips to the countryside and also getting to remote beaches. As you will be traversing paths through lush vegetation, sneakers are essential not only for comfortable walking but also for protection from snakes.

Apart from sneakers, sandals and flip flops are the obvious holiday shoes in Corfu. Besides, sandals can be beautifully combined with evening attire for a social outing.

3. The creams

First of all take sunscreen with you or buy some as soon as you arrive. Not one sunscreen but two, one for the face to wear every day wherever you go, and one for the beach. You don’t need to buy a sunscreen with an SPF 50 unless you have a specific reason. SPF 30 is perfect so you can return home with that perfect holiday bronze color.

A mosquito repellent and after bite balsam are also essential.

Finally, a moisturizing body cream that relieves after the sun, the sea and the shower, will definitely be needed. These are available in Corfu.

4. A canteen

Beautiful Corfu is close to perfect. One of its problems is the quality of the mains water, which is not drinkable. The plastic bottles sold everywhere are harmful to the environment, they sweat, drip on the bag, do not have a comfortable grip and after a while get too hot to drink. A water bottle that keeps the water cool, that you can hang around your neck or put in your bag is the best thing for your excursions in the city and the countryside, especially for the remote beaches you will visit.

5. Mobile phone with good camera and power bank

If you were planning to buy a new mobile phone, do so before your holiday and choose one with a very good camera. Corfu has an incredible cultural and natural heritage that you’ll want to capture with your camera. Dozens of images, colours, lifestyle details in Corfu are enough in themselves to fill your Instagram feed with beauty and style. So if you belong to those who love photography and post or save their moments as memories for the future, take a good phone or camera with you.

The power bank is also important when you’re hours away from your base on an excursion, tour or beach. Don’t forget that by using some apps to keep you safe while browsing and searching for the best spots, the battery will run out faster than usual. So to avoid running out, take your power bank along.

We hope the article “Holidays in Corfu: the 5 things to take with you”  was helpful enough to keep you happy and safe on your holidays in Corfu. In any case, during your stay at Nostalgia Corfu Apartments, you can ask for our help with anything you need. We are close to you, because your joy and safety on our island is our top priority.

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Achilleion Palace is one of the most famous sights of Corfu and Greece in general. It was built in the Corfu countryside by the Empress of Austro-Hungary Elizabeth, also known as Empress Sissy. It is undoubtedly one of the better known landmarks of the island, located in the village of Gastouri, ten kilometers southwest of Corfu town in the midst of nature.  The palace looks like something from a fairy tale, the imperial opulence and the natural beauty of the landscape conspire to create a truly magical image.

The common element between Empress Sissi and Kaiser of Germany, Wilhelm II

The imposing form of the Palace takes the visitor back to another era, when Achilleion was the preferred destination of two figures of European history, the common element between them their adoration of Corfu, Greece and its culture: The Empress Sissy and the Kaiser of Germany, Wilhelm II.  Sissy built Achilleion as a place to retreat and  to ease her suffering, at the loss of her son. The Kaiser bought it after her death, but the war, which he himself declared, prevented him from enjoying it.

Sissi and the Achilleion of Corfu

Empress Elizabeth’s acquaintance with Corfu began in 1861 when she visited the island for the first time.  She stayed for a long period and developed a special love for Corfu. At the same time, Sissy loved Greek mythology and culture. Wishing to immerse herself in classical Greece, she hired teachers who taught her Greek mythology and history as well as Greek literature,  prose and poetry. Her favorite teacher was Constantine Christomanos, a student at the University of Vienna, who caused her to literally adore Greece.

The palace is influenced by the Greek and Roman Ionic style but also has elements of Pompeian architecture. Sissy wished to create an oasis around her with heroes drawn from the Odyssey and the Iliad. The frescoes, the paintings and the decoration in general are influenced by Greek Mythology and the history of Ancient Greece.

Sissy named the new building “Achilleion” in honour of the ancient Greek hero Achilles, whom she greatly admired. Inside Achilleion, magnificent frescoes and paintings adorn the reception areas.

After the assassination of Empress Sissy, Achilleion passed into the hands of her daughter Maria Valeria, who never lived there. It remained closed for nine years, but during all that time, by order of Francis Joseph, it was kept in perfect condition in memory of Sissy, whom he loved so much.

Sissy spent half the year in Corfu, mostly in the spring and autumn months. She indulged in long walks and mingled with the locals, supporting them in every way and even financing the village’s aqueduct, as the area had a serious water supply problem. A plaque was erected in her honour, which still stands today.

In 1907 the Achilleion was bought by Kaiser Wilhelm II.

During the First and Second World War, the Palace was occupied, used for other purposes and unfortunately looted.

Achilleion, the place you must visit in Corfu

After years of reconstruction and renovation, the Palace has regained its former glory.

Today, the imposing façade of the building captivates visitors from the first glance. Both the interior and the gardens take visitors back to the time when princes and princesses waltzed  in the imposing halls with their distinguished guests. And even to the time when they read romantic poems in the vast gardens and when the princely children expressed their love to the chosen one of their hearts amid the colours of the glorious sunset.

The beautiful gardens of Achilleion offer stunning views of the Halikiopoulo Lagoon, Kanoni and Mouse Island.

The magical image relaxes the senses and creates the fairytale atmosphere that everyone dreams of on this visit.

Achilleion is one of the foremost architectural masterpieces of the island and a must for every visitor to Corfu.

Nostalgia Apartments, are located just 15’ drive from Achillion, via the Corfu Achilleion National Road.

Check out Nostalgia Apartments and plan your fairytale holidays in Corfu!

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In contrast with the rest of Greece, Easter in Corfu is not limited to the Resurrection and Easter Day but actually begins the week before.

Easter in Corfu, a unique sequence.

The Sunday before Easter Sunday is an Orthodox feast day, which in Corfu is celebrated with a vast procession. St Spyridon is the patron saint of the island and this day is a commemoration of the day he saved the island from plague in 1629. The procession of St Spyridon’s holy relic is accompanied by the marching bands of the island’s philharmonic orchestras and a procession is made around the entire Old Town of Corfu to pay homage to the saint in gratitude for the miracle.

[photo: travel.gr]

Then on Holy Thursday afternoon, the casual and formal events begin. A popular informal event is the band rehearsal at the Old Philharmonic building in a central pedestrian street of the Old Town. After 7 pm people gather outside to hear the musicians rehearse the mournful Good Friday marches until they perform them perfectly. Meanwhile, the restaurants, bars and cafes fill up with people creating a bustling, lively atmosphere.

Τhe great thrill

[photo:enimerosi]

In the morning, before 9 o’clock, crowds of people start to line the streets for the morning Epitaph of Easter Saturday. This starts from St. Spyridon’s Church with the holy relic preceding the epitaph. This procession also commemorates another miracle of the Saint, when he saved the island from famine in 1553. Faccio’s musical piece Hamlet takes centre stage, vibrating through the hearts of the faithful, telling the story of the martyrdom and death of Jesus.

The highlight

[photo:newsbomb]

By now the city is literally filled with tens of thousands of people, among them many celebrities who come to enjoy Corfu’s spectacular Easter, which has a cosmic, festive atmosphere unlike any other.

Mezes with ouzo or chilled white wine, groups of friends enjoying the glorious spring weather, people enthralled by the mystery and customs of Corfu’s Easter, smilingly await the great event of the Resurrection.

At 10pm, after a short break, people again pour into the central square area. There, just before midnight, mass is said by the bishop and is heard over loudspeakers by all present. At the stroke of midnight, the impressive, sparkling, colourful and  unique fireworks display is launched from the imposing Old Fortress, sending shooting colours high into the night sky. Thousands of cheers echo through the air and as many smiles shine in the light of the candles.

As the night ends, the rivers of people head home with lit candles in their hands or to restaurants for the traditional Easter fare, such as Mageiritsa. This is a very tasty soup like dish made from offal that everyone craves after the mourning fast.

Orthodoxy’s most famous Easter ends with Easter Sunday in the open-air taverns. Lamb cooked on the spit and red dyed eggs are the traditional culinary delights of the day.

Memory of a lifetime!

Once you experience Easter in Corfu, you’ll remember it forever. It is a magical experience where residents and visitors alike participate in an entrancing story of solemnity and joy. Everything is well organized and yet everything has been born spontaneously, through the faith, customs, and dedication of the residents who created it over time.

If you are planning to visit Corfu, Easter is absolutely the perfect time to do so!  Check in time for availability of Nostalgia Corfu Apartments here.

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The Corfu Carnival in town

photo credits: Libro d’ Oro

Princesses, marquises, barons and countesses in their rich Venetian costumes walk around the town centre, transporting us back to a bygone era. Reminiscent of a fairy tale, they mingle in their coloured and  golden masks following the Ionian customs of fun and spicy gossip.

The Corfu Carnival maintains to this day a special grandeur compared to other carnivals in Greece. It is heavily influenced by the wealth and glamour of old Venice, encompassing  the frivolity of the Venetian “ladies” of the time and  the ostentatious style of the Venetian rulers.

In contrast to this stand the Corfiot “petegoletsas”,  a satirical performance with spicy gossip commenting on  everything currently happening on the island.

The “petegoletsas” take place in the heart of the old town in the  “fanestres”, the windows of the traditional houses.  There you can hear about all the skeletons that normally remain well hidden in the closets.

The performance is a conversation, always in the Corfiot vernacular, between two to four opposite windows of buildings in the heart of the town. The gossip begins and the ‘dirty laundry’ is publically aired with no mercy!

Corfiot “Petegoletsas” belong to the street theatre genre, and have many elements of Commedia dell Arte. They take place on the Thursday of the third week of Carnival.

Other events during the Corfu Carnival are parties, carnival songs, dances and events from the other Greece,  the “Kratodikeio”, the “Venetian perantzada”, the “Gaitanaki”, and the “treasure hunt”.

On the last Sunday the grand parade of the Venetian Carnival takes place. Various teams from the island’s clubs, dance schools, and groups of local people answer the Carnival’s call, turning the whole of Corfu town into a joyful celebration with the aroma of Venice.

In earlier years, the events, which then would take place indoors, were attended by lords and nobles both local and foreign. Masked costume balls  were held in these places, evoking the festive atmosphere and spectacle of the Venetian metropolis.

The brio, colour,  fun and above all popular participation have always been elements that define the Corfu Carnival. Together  with the masked balls and the wanderings  of the masked revellers through the streets and the alleyways of the town, Corfu brings to mind Venice, where the revelry and the fun have their own unique and special cadence.

The Corfu Carnival in the countryside

In the countryside of Corfu, in contrast with the town, are preserved many elements of ancient Greek pagan worship. The arrival of the effigy of the  Carnival King, the all night dancing of  masked revellers with their masks called ‘mouzeta’ around the bonfire, the improvised comic sketches with their mocking character, the sacred marriage with the joint banquet, and finally the announcement of the covenant and the burning of the  effigy of the Carnival King (the scapegoat, who absolved the sins), with laughter, joy and good wishes, show the Dionysian roots of the Carnival of the Corfu countryside.

According to the historical writer Karolos Klimis, until recently, in the mountainous areas of Corfu, on the Sunday of Tyrofagos, the carnival custom of the phallus and the goat’s foot, which were Dionysian symbols, took place. Even today in the villages of Episkepsi, Nymphes and Klimatia the “Papadon Dance” is performed, a custom that combines pagan customs with the Orthodox Christian religion.

Corfu Carnival with significant qualitative differences from other Greek Carnivals, aspires to continue a 400 year old tradition.

In recent years, efforts have been made to spotlight the identity of the Corfu Carnival, based on the specificity of Ionian Culture, which successfully merged the Western way of thinking with the folk element and the Greek character of the area.

Accommodation in Corfu

Corfu is a place where tradition and culture flourishes. Corfiots are a people who love, preserve and enhance them. The revival and promotion of the Corfu Carnival is a good reason for visitors to come to Corfu in the heart of winter. Nostalgia Apartments Corfu is an ideal accommodation proposal in spring and summer and if the Corfu Carnival is established as a visitor attraction they will be ideally placed to welcome the winter visitors of our island.

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Corfu’s cultural identity is so strong you can feel it in the air….you can even taste it. While rest of the country was enslaved to the Ottomans, Corfu’s Venetian conquerors left their unmistakable traces in the local cuisine.

Corfu is an real gastronomic paradise of Mediterranean cooking. Corfiots are lovers of  strong, rich, flavours. Vibrant colours and aromas are particularly appreciated in their cosmopolitan dishes. In general, the cuisine of Corfu expresses her people’s love for life and living.

With typical Mediterranean style and Venetian influences, Corfiot cuisine highlights the distinct cultural influences that the island has absorbed and it is no coincidence that many recipes still have Italian names.

The discerning visitor who loves good food and special flavours should definitely try Corfu’s 4 most iconic dishes:

Pastitsada, the queen of Corfu Cuisine

Pastitsada with rooster or beef is still the dish of celebrations and formal meals.  It is a special recipe with has medieval origins in Verona. Although it looks similar to a common stew, it is radically different in flavour and preparation.

Pastitsada is the perfect blend of sweet and spicy,  being at the same time an amazing comfort food. It is definitely one of the most delicious dishes you have ever tasted!

Photo: Love and Spices

In its preparation, onions are used for aromatic sweetness, vinegar as an acidic element, red wine and a mixture of spices (red hot and sweet pepper, nutmeg, cumin, allspice, cloves and cinnamon) all of which add colour and intensity to the flavour. This mixture of spices has its own name, spicery or spetseriko and is truly the most important ingredient of all.

The recipe for spetseriko for pastitsada is for half of the Corfiots  a closely guarded family secret. For the other half, a mystery because they used to buy their spetseriko ready-made in sachets from a central pharmacy that no longer exists.

The deep red colour of the dish is largely due to the spetseriko and optically the dish can easily be mistaken for meat in tomato sauce.

Sofrito

Sofrito is the most elegant of the four classic Corfiot dishes. While it is obvious that it was named during the Venetian rule, there is no significant gastronomic connection between the dish sofrito and the  Italian cooking technique of the same name, other than the fact that both involve frying in oil.

The sofrito is made with beef that is lightly floured and fried in oil and then simmered with three ingredients that create a balance of intensities between them, vinegar, garlic and parsley, while white wine is often used. The result is a pungent savoury dish, with a thick, white, velvety sauce.

Fish Bourdeto

A classic recipe from Venice, Bourdeto is also a traditional Corfu dish, much loved by fishermen. The dish takes its name from the word brodetto, which means Venetian broth.

You can use a mixture of different fish in the dish and the preparation starts with cooking the fish in white wine and olive oil with onions, vinegar and lemon.

Bourdeto gets its vibrant colour from the red, hot and sweet peppers, which are its main ingredient and not from tomatoes. The result is a rich fish dish with a gorgeous spicy taste. The preferred fish are scorpion fish, cod, small shark, stingray and trout.

Bianco

photo: Katerina Tsemperlidou

Bianco will be adored by seafood lovers looking for the best in Corfu cuisine.  Bianco is the traditional way of cooking fish, with potatoes, garlic, parsley, freshly milled pepper and lemon juice. It is one of the superstars of Corfiot cuisine and can be made with almost any kind of fish, even salt cod.

We wish you ‘Kali orexi’ or bon appetit and would encourage you to finish your meal with a traditional Corfiot kumquat liqueur.

The island of Corfu is the only place in Europe, along with Sicily, where kumquat is still produced and  has been since 1850.

If Corfiot cuisine is another reason to plan your holiday in Corfu, check out Nostalgia Corfu Apartments and book your favourite room.

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