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Old Perithia Village

4 min read


OLD PERITHIA, CORFU: A HISTORIC VILLAGE GUIDE

OLD PERITHIA AT A GLANCE

LocationMount Pantokrator Slopes
Famous ForCorfu’s Oldest Village
VibeHistoric & Atmospheric
AccessCar (Essential)
Key SightsRuined Houses, Tavernas
Best ForHistory, Hiking & Dining

An Overview of Old Perithia

Old Perithia is a captivating deserted village, nestled high on the slopes of Mount Pantokrator. Known as the island’s oldest village and a Protected Historic Monument, it offers a hauntingly beautiful glimpse into Corfu’s past. Once a thriving community, it was abandoned, leaving behind Venetian-style stone houses now reclaimed by nature. Today, a handful of excellent tavernas breathe life back into its ancient heart, drawing visitors seeking history, unique beauty, and authentic Corfiot cuisine.

Quick Planner

⏳ Time Needed
2 – 3 Hours (inc. lunch)
⭐ Don’t Miss
Lunch at a Traditional Taverna
📍 Plan Your Day
Combine with Pantokrator Summit

How to Get to Old Perithia

Drive Yourself (Essential)

A car is essential for reaching Old Perithia. The drive up the mountain is scenic but involves narrow, winding roads requiring careful driving.

Book a Private Tour or Taxi

A private taxi or organised tour is a great, stress-free way to visit the mountain villages without navigating the winding roads yourself.


In-Depth Guide & Details

Location & Getting Around Old Perithia

Old Perithia is high on the slopes of Mount Pantokrator, 38 km from Corfu Town. The drive takes just over an hour.

  • Parking: A designated parking area is at the village entrance. It can fill up at peak lunch hours.
  • Accessibility: The village is pedestrianised with uneven cobblestone paths. It is not suitable for those with significant mobility issues. Sturdy shoes are essential.

Key Attractions & Features
  • The Deserted Village: Wander through the atmospheric, crumbling stone houses and see nature reclaiming its own. It’s like stepping back in time.
  • Historic Churches: Old Perithia boasts eight churches, including the central church of Agios Iakovos Persis, reflecting its former prosperity.
  • Traditional Tavernas: Several excellent, family-run tavernas have been restored within the village, offering hearty traditional Corfiot food in unique, historic settings.
  • Hiking Trails: The village is a gateway to numerous hiking trails on Mount Pantokrator, including the popular Old Perithia Loop Trail.
Amenities & What to Expect
Amenities in Old Perithia are purposefully limited. The primary amenities are the traditional tavernas, famous for their rustic charm and delicious local cuisine. You will find a small shop for local honey and a few guesthouses. There are no large supermarkets, lively bars, or extensive shopping.
Is Old Perithia Right for You?

You’ll Love Old Perithia If…

  • You are a history enthusiast or love exploring ancient ruins.
  • You enjoy hiking and stunning mountain scenery.
  • You appreciate authentic, traditional Corfiot cuisine in unique settings.
  • You’re looking for a peaceful escape from the bustling coastal resorts.

Important Things to Know…

  • Access is by car only; the drive can be winding.
  • The village is pedestrianised and has uneven paths; wear sturdy shoes.
  • It can get busy during peak lunch hours in high season.
  • Temperatures can be cooler than at the coast due to elevation.
Frequently Asked Questions

Is Old Perithia completely abandoned?

No, while most of the houses are in ruins, the village is a “living museum.” Several tavernas operate, some guesthouses have been restored for tourists, and a few local families still live and work there, particularly producing honey.

Is it difficult to walk around the village?

The village is on a slope and the paths are made of uneven cobblestones. It requires sturdy, comfortable footwear. It is not suitable for pushchairs or those with significant mobility issues.

Do I need to book the tavernas in advance?

For lunch in the peak season (July/August), it is a very good idea to book your chosen taverna in advance, especially for larger groups, as it is a very popular destination.

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Explore More of North Corfu’s Interior

Hike the Loop Trail

Embark on the popular hiking trail that loops around the village, offering spectacular views and a deeper immersion into the mountain landscape.

Drive to the Summit

From Old Perithia, continue up the mountain to the summit of Mount Pantokrator for the most breathtaking 360° views on the island.

Head to the Coast

After exploring the mountains, drive down to the coast to visit the vibrant harbour village of Kassiopi, with its castle and beautiful coves.


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