Corfu, Greece

09:00 AM - 06:00 PM, local time

Famous for its emerald-capped mountains and 125 miles of coastline, “The Evergreen Greek Island” of Corfu refers to more than just its stunning colors. Filled with both awe-inspiring historic monuments and cafe-lined streets, days can be spent at beach clubs or off-roading on the jewel-toned slopes.

Peek beyond the City of Peaks

In every big family there are bound to be labels given to each child. There’s the leader, the mischief-maker, the one who goes with the flow — the list goes on. If Greece’s islands were to have such designations, Corfu would be the effortlessly chic tastemaker.

Corfu is simply dripping in history. Wander through the narrow cobblestone alleys and discover a world of adventure worthy of a fantasy film. Stumble upon historical landmines — like The Old Town’s stunning municipal building, which served as its first (and former) grand theater and opera house built during the Venetian empire. Admire The Palace of St. Michael & St. George, which provides a home to the Museum of Asian Art that displays Chinese, Japanese, and Greco-Buddhist masterpieces. Take in The Saint Spyridon Church’s bell tower – whose patron saint was said to have expelled the plague from the island. All the while appreciating the wafting aromas of local flora and fauna that are so expertly used for numerous liqueur and culinary infusions. It’s not that Corfu is pretentious, it’s just the classic Hollywood starlet of Greek Islands — emitting that aura of worldly sophistication that naturally makes you want more.   

Corfu gives you the freedom to relax with your toes in the sand sipping kumquat liqueur one minute and diving (literally and figuratively) into adventures unknown the next. You can choose from a number of sumptuous beaches to bask in the sun, peruse a new book under the shade of an umbrella or go for a swim in the iridescent waters. You can venture to hilltop ruins on horseback and sail the coast before plunging into the sea from the comfort of your own private vessel. You can picnic on a seaside cliff, explore groves of kumquats, pomegranates, pears and olives, hike the otherworldly scenic trails by foot (or by ATV) or — you can do it all.  In Corfu the sea is merely a starting point — and you’re in control of the dynamic story about to unfold.