Marathias · South Corfu
Area Guide
Marathias and South Corfu in general combine some of the island's most impressive, wide sandy beaches with a more authentic, relaxed atmosphere than the cosmopolitan north. Here's a short guide to what's worth seeing and trying in the area.
The suggestions below are personal and indicative. We have no commercial relationship with the businesses mentioned. Hours and availability may vary seasonally.
Beaches near Marathias
Marathias Beach
600 m · about 8 minutes on foot
Golden, fine sand, crystal-clear (and usually cool) water and a huge stretch of coastline. Partly organised with beach bars and tavernas, but with plenty of open space left for quiet. Sunsets here are magical.
Santa Barbara (Maltas)
A natural continuation of Marathias beach heading south, reachable on foot along the coast. Quieter, with striking clay cliffs behind it. Ideal if you want to get away from the crowds.
Gardenos Beach
About 4-5 km, near the village of Vitalades
Similar scenery to Marathias, a wide sandy beach with shallow water, great for families, very picturesque, with a small stream running into the sea at one end and traditional tavernas.
Issos & Halikounas
About 10-12 km north
A landscape unlike anywhere else in Greece. Issos has huge, desert-like sand dunes bordering the cedar forest and Lake Korission. Halikounas, a narrow strip of land between the sea and the lake, is a favourite spot for kitesurfers and windsurfers thanks to the wind.
Tavernas & Restaurants
In Marathias
Right on the beach, where the waves break, you'll find great options for fresh fish and Corfiot dishes (like bourdeto or sofrito). Sirens, Armeno, Karma and La Playa are all classic spots with a great view of the sunset.
In Chlomotianika
About 15-20 minutes by car
For a change of scenery, it's worth driving up to the traditional village of Chlomotianika. There you'll find tavernas, like Archontiko, with panoramic views over all of South Corfu and very good local meat.
In Boukari
About 10-15 minutes by car, on the east side of the island
Boukari is a quiet fishing village known for its waterside fish tavernas, like Psarotaverna Boukari, where the fish is guaranteed fresh.
Sights & Activities
Lake Korission & the Cedar Forest
A protected Natura area, ideal for an afternoon walk, birdwatching (depending on the season you might even spot flamingos) and photography.
The traditional village of Chlomos
Also known as "the balcony of Corfu". A traditional 13th-century village with narrow lanes and Venetian architecture, painted in shades of ochre and red. The view from up there is breathtaking.
Gardiki Castle
Near Agios Matthaios. Ruins of a 13th-century Byzantine fortress with octagonal architecture. An interesting stop for history lovers.
Hiking in Agios Matthaios
A large, green village at the foot of the mountain of the same name. A lovely trail leads through the olive groves up to the Pantokratoras Monastery at the summit.
Practical Information
Supermarkets
In Marathias itself you'll find mini markets for everyday essentials (water, bread, basics). For a larger supermarket (Lidl, Diellas, Masoutis) you'll need to go to Perivoli (3-4 km) or Lefkimmi (about 10 km), the largest town in the south.
Pharmacy / Health
The nearest pharmacies are in Perivoli and Argyrades. For medical care, the Lefkimmi Health Centre is the local option.
Getting around without a car
The Green Buses connect Corfu Town with Kavos and stop on the main road outside Marathias (Marathias stop). From there it's about 1.5-2 km on foot to the property and the beach. In practice, exploring South Corfu without your own transport (a car or scooter) is difficult, as the distances between sights aren't easily covered on foot. We'd recommend renting at least a scooter.
ATMs / Banks
ATMs are available in Perivoli, Argyrades and Lefkimmi.
Distances from Andri House
- Marathias Beach: 600 m
- Agios Georgios Beach: 2.4 km
- Port of Lefkimmi: about 10 km
- Achilleion Palace: about 25 km
- Corfu Town & Airport: about 35 km
Did you know? The olive groves around Marathias are mostly made up of "Lianolia", the traditional Corfiot olive variety planted by the Venetians. These huge, forest-like trees can be seen everywhere along the roads of the south.