“A place that has been there for a very long time is what we are bringing. A ghost village in the foothills of Mount Pantokratoras: Old Perithia.”
Corfu Island, the Ionian Garden, is well-known for its beaches and stunning emerald sea colours, but there are a lot more things to do there than the usual summertime pursuits of swimming, sailing, snorkelling, and tanning.
Driving inland is a choice that can offer many surprises, particularly in inclement weather or when you want to escape the heat and beach. Some of the lesser-known locations that can catch you off guard are lush forests, castles, small villages, and natural areas.
Today, we suggest a trip to the past: the “abandoned” village of Old Perithia.
Is Old Perithia a “Ghost Village”?
Situated around 400 meters above sea level on the northern flanks of Mount Pantokrator, Old Perithia is a community rich in cultural heritage and history. Now protected as a heritage site, it is one of the last surviving instances of the stone agricultural communities constructed in the highlands to protect islanders.
The History of Old Perithia, Corfu
The village was founded around the 14th century in the heart of a hidden, fertile valley surrounded by hills and far from the seaside, during the Byzantine period. Seeking to avoid coastal threats such as Turks, Vikings and pirates’ attacks, it soon became a farming community that flourished because of its strategic location, raising sheep and growing vines and olives.
More than 130 houses and 8 churches characterised by Venetian traditions and large communal structures that supported a wealthy community of up to 1200 inhabitants.
In the 19th century, the seaside became safe, and the villagers started to move gradually to the coast to avoid the cold and snowy winter months, changing their lifestyle from farming to fishing.
However, in the 1960s, with the emergence of tourism, the inhabitants chose to relocate definitively to the coast for a more convenient lifestyle, leading to the abandonment of the settlement.
Old Perithia in the 21st Century
Since 2010, locals and visitors who had fallen in love with the magic of this place started to rebuild some of the remaining houses. Today, Old Perithia has become a charming rustic retreat, far from the tourist fuss, with lovely taverns, traditional local food, and rural but stylish accommodation. A four-star hotel has been built in the village after restoring the three houses that comprise the Merchant’s House, built in the 1800s
Visitors can enjoy the community’s stunning views, lush surrounding areas, serene mountain landscapes ideal for walking, and historic structures with unique architectural elements. If you’re interested in history, the outdoors, or just a quiet retreat, you must visit this hidden gem in Corfu.
As a protected site, the remains of its 130 residences and eight churches are today preserved for their historical beauty and Venetian-style architecture.
How to Get to Old Perithia, Corfu
Although it is located just a 15-minute drive from the coast, Old Perithia is not easily accessible.
You need a car to get to Old Perithia. There are public buses that reach the north of the island, but you will need to call a taxi from there, and it will be quite pricey, as long as the driver agrees to take you to your destination and back!
>From the South, Corfu Town:
Drive north approximately one hour through Ethinikis Paleokastritsas and follow the coastal road past Kassiopi and Kalamaki Beach. Take the detour to your left towards Agios Elias and Loutses, and drive 15 more minutes until you reach Old Perithia parking at the village entrance.
What to Do in Old Perithia?
The village has plenty of things to do and see. Walk around its cobblestone roads and discover old buildings, houses, the school and the impressive arch that used to show the entrance to the main square. You can also go trekking along the nearby hills and even reach the Pantokrator Peak on foot on a 2 and a half hours route per way, but be aware of the summer’s high temperatures before you start!
More buildings are renovated every year, becoming small apartments for rent and boutique hotels: full of antiques, objects and exquisite decorations, bringing to mind the old-time atmosphere and peacefulness!
But most important of all: you can’t miss a stop at, at least, one of the local taverns in Old Perithia. If you want to enjoy local Corfiot specialities, choose one of the traditional restaurants in the village, have a seat under the shade and order as much as you can eat! Driving there just for the food is worth it!
Have you ever tried “The Poor’s Salad”? It’s a very old Corfiot plate made with oranges, paprika, olives, and some olive oil and vinegar. Tsigarelli, veggie pies and many more are served with local wine and fresh bread.
Even if the weather is sunny and bright, save one day of your holidays and visit Old Perithia.
And if the weather is rainy, check our post about “8 Things To Do On A Rainy Day in Corfu”
See you soon in Corfu!
The Tsokas Exclusive Team 🙂