Paxos

Just 13 kilometres south of Corfu’s southern coast lie the stunning islands of Paxi and Antipaxi, renowned for their caves and beloved by the rich and famous. Pristine limestone cliffs plunge dramatically into crystal-clear waters along the western shore of these two islands, and it’s here you’ll find the celebrated Blue Caves – three interconnected caverns of exceptional beauty, accessible by boat from Gaios harbour.

Paxi is the larger of the two islands, stretching 10 kilometres long and reaching just two kilometres wide in places. It’s home to several substantial villages, including Gaios, the main town, nestled in the island’s southeast with a thriving nightlife scene. The charming settlements of Loggos – set amongst olive groves on the eastern coast with a crescent-shaped waterfront lined with tavernas – and Lakka, tucked into a deep horseshoe-shaped bay, are equally captivating.

Paxi’s eastern coastline, which according to Greek mythology Poseidon separated from Corfu with his trident to create a love nest for himself and his wife Amphitrite, shelves gently to form tranquil bays including Orkos and Kipiadia. The western shore, meanwhile, is dotted with tiny beaches and numerous caves carved into the cliff face. Beyond the Blue Cave, the grottos of Ypapanti, Galazio and Ortholitho are well worth exploring.

Gaios harbour is home to two small, verdant islands. On the larger, Agios Nikolaos, the lush vegetation conceals the ruins of a Venetian fortress dating back to 1423, which once dominated the area. The islet, reachable by small boat, is also home to a modest chapel dedicated to Agios Ioannis and Agios Nikolaos – after whom the island is named – along with an old windmill. On the neighbouring islet of Panaghia sits the Kimisi basilica, built on the site of an ancient temple, parts of which remain incorporated into the structure today. Two further small islands lie to the south between Paxi and Antipaxi: Moggonisi and Kaltsionisi, where you’ll find the 1680 chapel of Aghio Spiridon.

Paxi boasts numerous hotels and accommodation options, all of excellent quality and varying price points, alongside countless exceptional Greek tavernas.

Recommended hotels in Paxos