Corfu, Greece by Michael Gleave

Mon Repos

Until 1967, this beautiful villa was used as the summer residence of the Greek Royal family. In its time it has seen many royal births from Princess Alexia of Greece and Denmark, to most notably Prince Phillip, husband of the Queen of England. Although it lay derelict after the monarchy ended it was restored in the early 1990s and now contains an archaeological museum. However while exploring the ancient artefacts associated with Corfu can be enthralling, it’s the glimpse into how the other half live that makes this place a true highlight. Look out for the secret beach and the beautifully manicured gardens.

Albania

Just two miles away from Corfu, Albania is a whole other country just waiting to be explored. You can catch the ferry from Corfu Town and surprise your friends and family by sending them a postcard from the former communist state. The boat docks in the pretty seaside resort of Saranda, where you can enjoy a traditional lunch before moving onto the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Butrint. The former Roman town has many remains from a classic amphitheatre to a pharmacy and temple.

Glacial lake, Valbona National Park, Albania by Les Haines

Sidari Water Park Fun Park

Kids take to water parks like ducks to, well, water! In fact if you’re bringing the little ones along we’re prepared to bet good money that it will be their holiday highlight. The slides are free if you choose to stay in the Water Park Hotel; otherwise a small entrance fee will cover your time here. Whizzing down the flumes in to an ice cool pool is one way to stay hydrated on your holidays. The park also contains a children’s play area and table football and hockey games for those that want to stay above water.

Sampling Sofrito

Greece is famous for its food and Corfu has some of the best. While staying on the island be sure to check out the classic dish of sofrito. Some claim that this dish was influenced by the Venetian settlers who first arrived on the island – although the dish which consists of beef cooked in wine with garlic and parsley is too many people’s minds classically Greek. Try it home-cooked in a traditional tavern.

Mouse Island, Corfu, Greece by Christine und Hagen Graf

Mouse Island

This trademark of Corfu was supposedly formed when the ship that had taken Odysseus back to Ithaca was turned to stone by Poseidon. Whether you believe the myth or not, the legend makes it one of the most magical places to visit. More recently the island was a location for the James Bond movie, For Your Eyes Only. However the island can get crowded particularly during the summer months and is best viewed from the nearby Royal Hotel with a glass of Ouzo in hand. Shaken not stirred.

Emily Collins often travels to Greece and she recommends booking packages with Purple Travel.

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