Othonoi

Pristine forests and stunning beaches make Othonoi Greece’s westernmost island and a favourite destination for many travellers, despite remaining completely untouched by mass tourism.

Stretching nearly 6 kilometres long and 3.5 kilometres wide, Othonoi is the largest and most mountainous of the Diapontian Islands, with peaks reaching 400 metres. The island offers several excellent accommodation options and outstanding tavernas serving traditional Greek cuisine and the freshest fish.

Othonoi lies just over 10 miles off Corfu’s north-western coast and only 43 miles from Cape Otranto. It’s renowned for the spectacular Aspri Ammos beach. This bay stretches along the island’s western shore and many believe it’s where Odysseus was bewitched and held captive for seven years by the nymph Calypso in Homer’s Odyssey.

Accessible only by sea, Calypso’s Bay features brilliant white pebbles and a remarkable cave—100 metres deep, 10–15 metres wide and 20 metres high—with two entrances, pristine white vertical walls and turquoise waters.

Crystal-clear waters ideal for snorkelling, golden sandy beaches, rocky coves, hidden inlets and caves—many accessible only by boat—dot the island. Fiki beach in the north is equally beautiful, where you can swim and spot ancient submerged amphorae, whilst the snow-white Imerovigli, with its fine sand and overlooking mountain of the same name, is equally spectacular.

Ferries from Corfu dock at Ammos port, nestled in a lovely bay on the island’s southern shore. The village is charming with a beautiful beach offering shallow, crystalline waters. From here, you can reach the village of Horiò for breathtaking sunset views.

Othonoi is home to 13 villages scattered amongst olive groves, with beautiful walking trails crisscrossing the island. On the north-eastern coast, you’ll discover the remains of a Venetian fortress and a lighthouse dating from 1872, with flat rocks below perfect for sunbathing and swimming.

Recommended hotels in Othonoi