Tranquil Arilas is a picture postcard of authentic Corfu. Flower draped streets, pastel houses and the obligatory friendly dog having a wander. Seven minimarkets, a few bars and several tavernas. The few hotels here have that friendly touch – like the family run Kaloudis Village Apartments. Arilas's long beach of golden sand and shingle is the centre of activity – which includes sunbathing, swimming and splashing around. The shallow waters are great for kids or for that first time canoeing or windsurfing.
Hop on a horse to go trekking into rural
Corfu. Jump in a dingy to deserted Gravia Island, home to sheep and secluded beaches. Walk along the coast to
Agios Stefanos or Agios Georgios. Don't miss
Paleokastritsa, a spot famed beyond Corfu for its natural beauty, exclusive marina and ancient monastery. When it comes to evening entertainment, you can't beat the sunsets here - make sure you're settled in at a seafront bar to drink it in. Then how about a flavour of Corfu proper, at Brouklis – a taverna so good the locals love it. Let the ouzo flow! Yiamas!