Photo ↑ by @naya_poultidou
Also referred to as Othoni, Othonoi is better known as the westernmost point of Greece. To those coming to Corfu, it is also one of the Diapontia islands. In fact, it is the largest inhabited island in this group and offers access to a bit of entertainment as well.
If you are into mythology, you might be familiar with the name already. According to the legend, this is where Calypso kept Odysseus captive for about seven years. But back to our days, here is everything you need to know before travelling to Othonoi.
How To Get From Corfu To Othonoi
Othonoi can only be reached from Corfu. It does not have an airport, so you can only get there by boat.
Aspiotis Lines at https://www.aspiotislines.gr offers easy access. You can also book online, whether you are interested in a trip to Othonoi or a more private experience.
Kerkyra Lines at https://kerkyralines.com/en can also take you from Corfu to Othonoi. Again, you can book online too, which is actually recommended during the summertime.
The journey may take up to four hours due to other stops as well. Given the long travel times, you may need to spend the night in Othonoi, so plan it carefully.
What To Visit In Othonoi
Ammos is the most developed settlement in Othonoi and a favourite among tourists. It has quite a few hotels, traditional homes, bars and restaurants. It has a decent nightlife as well, but do not expect a crazy clubbing experience.
The Calypso cave is a popular attraction in Othonoi. It is close to the local beach in Ammos. You cannot walk there, so you will have to hire a boat. Luckily, you can find operators all around the area. The cave has two entrances and offer a stunning experience in terms of tranquillity and views.
Cape Kastri is located in the eastern side of Othonoi. Apart from the natural beauty of the place, you can also explore the ruins of an old Venetian castle. If you visit this area, you may as well look for the amazing lighthouse erected in 1872.
Chorio is worth a visit too. It is one of the main settlements in Othonoi. It is not massive, but it is alright for a day in Othonoi. You can travel there by car or just take a trail. Once in there, you can also visit a local church built in the 19th century.
The white stone cross nearby is one of the more famous landmarks in the same area. It was built to commemorate the locals slew by Barbarossa, one of the world’s most notorious pirates.
Best Beaches In Othonoi
Looking for a bit of sunbathing? Othonoi has a few amazing beaches, with Aspri Ammos being the famous one.
Not only does it have white sand and crystal clear waters, but it is also accessible from the sea only, so you will need a boat.
Ammos, Avlakia and Vathi Portelo are just as popular, located close to the port and offering access to stunning emerald waters.
Last, but not least, Xylosermi is beautiful too. You can get there by boat, but you can also take a trail. The trail has a point about 300 metres before reaching the water, which provides some stunning views for the local sunset.
What To Do In Othonoi
Visiting the main local attractions is one of the most important things to do in Othonoi.
If you are into nature, hiking is a common activity too. Trails are well preserved, allowing tourists to move from one settlement to another without too much hassle. There are hundreds of olive trees to explore, some of them older than 400 years. Chestnuts, coconuts and cypresses are also common.
Local sailing tours are worth some consideration too, as you can admire the secluded coves and bays around the island. Plus, underwater activities like diving are just as popular. A so called underwater museum is available by the Fyki bay, where the shipwreck of Sarah hides.
Travelling from Corfu? Othonoi probably needs at least a couple of days for a full exploration. If you are after a relaxing and tranquil holiday, you might as well spend more time on the island.