Photo ↑ by @hundertmalmeer
Mathraki may not be the most popular island around Corfu, but it is definitely worth some attention. If you are after busy streets and plenty of entertainment, you are in the wrong place. Mathraki is more about tranquillity and super quiet beaches and settlements.
It is the type of place you go to in order to bond with nature. There is nothing that could actually disturb you on this island. Instead, you will find your inner peace and enjoy a unique experience in the middle of nowhere.
Located in the north of Corfu, Mathraki is a secluded place, so it is more popular among those who prefer privacy and peace. There are hardly any facilities around. You can go there for a day, but you can also spend quite a few days to recharge your batteries.
There is not a lot to do on the island, but this guide includes everything you have to know.
A Few Words About Mathraki
Mathraki is about 3.5 square kilometres in size, so you can walk around it in no time. It offers good views over Corfu, as well as Albania. There are less than 50 people living in Mathraki, yet the population doubles up in the summertime.
The island has been affected by heavy immigration to the USA, mainly to New York. Therefore, do not be surprised if you end up talking to old Greeks with strong American accents. It sounds crazy on such a small island, but it is perfectly normal.
There are plumbing issues, while tap water is not considered drinkable. Other than that, the Internet is quite poor. Simply put, Mathraki is the perfect place to unwind, recharge your batteries and disconnect from your modern life.
How To Get From Corfu To Mathraki
Mathraki does not have an airport. If you come from Corfu, you can use the ferry. Kerkyra Lines at https://kerkyralines.com/en offers the opportunity to book tickets online. Times may change, but the website is up to date when booking.
Aspiotis Lines at https://www.aspiotislines.gr will also take you there, but from Agios Stefanos.
Local ferry services will also take you there, but you would have to search online. If you struggle, simply walk into ferry offices around Corfu and ask. Daily ferry services provide excursions in the area, but they do not necessarily run like taxis.
Therefore, you would have to ask if you can get picked up on a different day, just in case you plan to spend more days in Mathraki.
Settlements In Mathraki
While Mathraki does have a few house clusters, they cannot really be referred to as settlements. When it comes to villages, there are two different ones on the island.
Plakes is the main port and smaller than an average village in Corfu. It is in the north of the island and consists of a few buildings, a couple of tavernas and the natural bay. The local beach is small, but waters are clear and the sand is fine.
Chorio is the capital of the island. Located in the south, it is part of the Merovigli local mountain. There are a few tavernas, a few houses and a few rooms for guests. Given the fact that it is on a mountain, it offers some beautiful views over the sea.
Some of the houses in Chorio are abandoned. Most of them are old and made of stone.
Tourist Attractions In Mathraki
Given the size of Mathraki, there is not much to see. But if you truly want to explore the local culture, you can admire the church of Agios Nikolaos. Saint Nicholas is also known to protect seafarers, hence his popularity on this island, where most residents fish in local waters.
Beaches In Mathraki
Mathraki stands out with its amazing waters and natural landscapes. From this point of view, local beaches are well natural and offer so much silence that you can literally hear your own thoughts.
- Agouridi is in the east and has both sandy and pebbled areas. It is quite small, but it is usually empty and great for relaxation.
- Apidies is in the southwestern side of Mathraki. It has rocks, as well as pebbles. You can get there by walking from Chorio.
- Arvanitiko is in the southeastern side of the island. It is rocky, but also has pebbles. You can get there by boat or by foot from Chorio.
- Fyki is a bay in the north west with rocky formations, some pebbles and super clear waters. It is a bit rough, so it is usually empty.
- Kontrakas is in the west. It is practically a small cove that can be easily accessed by foot. It looks good with all the greenery around it.
- Portello is located on the eastern coast. You can get there by walking from Plakes. It is large and covered in fine sand. It is considered the main beach in Mathraki.
Some beaches are quite close to the main villages. Other than that, there are no amenities, so they are all isolated and quiet.