On the eastern side of central Corfu, there is one of the most famous destinations on the entire island. We’re talking about the coastal village of Benitses. This much-loved village is not only popular with locals but also with the visitors of the island. Its history is one of the most interesting, as it uniquely blends different historical elements, beginning all the way from Roman times.
In the center of the old village of Benitses, one can find the ruins of a considerable building complex. These ruins belong to a Roman villa and the Roman baths that once dominated the area. Their presence indicates how important Benitses was for hundreds of years as a center of trade and wealth in central-eastern Corfu. The inhabitants, who were and still are especially known for their fishing activities, managed to create a small society and preserve all the distinctive features of Corfiot cultural heritage and tradition. However, the village of Benitses didn’t remain stagnant in time. Taking advantage of the tourist development of the 1960s, it was restructured and transformed into a modern settlement, which also functions as a tourist resort. The older generations of Corfiots will still remember the 1980s when Benitses was the number one destination for mass tourism in Corfu, resembling what is now known as Kavos. Over time, they managed to overcome the negative aspects of mass tourism, and today Benitses serves as a magnet for sea lovers, food enthusiasts, and those interested in Corfiot history.
Many families visit Benitses because of its well-organized and easily accessible beach. Although it is a major attraction for many visitors, the beach allows both the young and the old to relax and have fun while enjoying water sports, such as inflatable games and kite surfing. The marina of Benitses is particularly popular as well. This ultra-modern project hosts boats and yachts, not only for locals but also for visitors looking for a unique experience. From the marina, various small routes begin, taking visitors on tours of the island’s eastern shores, from the Perama area all the way to Boukari.
“Charming villages, beautiful beaches, rich history, and stunning landscapes.”
Near Benitses, just a few kilometers away, lies one of the most important buildings in Corfu’s history. This is none other than the Achilleion Palace. This majestic palace-museum is built on the slopes of a hill close to the village of Gastouri, about 4 kilometers from Benitses. The Achilleion was constructed in 1890 by the Empress of Austria-Hungary, Elisabeth, also known as “Sisi.” Seeking to escape the problems of the Habsburg court and wishing to express her love for Greek mythology, Sisi built the Achilleion in the style of her time, but with various touches from ancient Greek culture. She decorated the interior spaces as well as the gardens with statues and also ensured that the statue of the hero, from whom the palace takes its name, was included. The “Achilles Dying” statue depicts the mythical hero lying as he succumbs to the fatal arrow, symbolizing the vanity of life. After the unexpected death of the Empress, the palace passed into the hands of the German Emperor Wilhelm II, also known as Kaiser. He, wanting to depict Achilles at the height of his glory, commissioned the creation of a statue of the hero in his moment of triumph. The “Achilles Victorious” statue is one of the largest statues in all of Corfu, standing over 11 meters tall and weighing nearly 4.5 tons. This unique palace is a monument that every visitor should experience at least once. It combines incredible architecture, unique aesthetics, and hidden stories that everyone should learn about.
Neighboring the grand palace is the picturesque village of Gastouri, one of the most traditional villages in all of Corfu. The village is known for its breathtaking views, history, and its Philharmonic Orchestra, one of the oldest and most important in the entire island. The old mansions stand out, as well as several monuments that bear witness to the presence of Princess Sisi, who had a deep affection for this small community. One of the places worth visiting is the fountain she created for the village’s residents, beside which stands a towering plane tree. In Gastouri, visitors can enjoy local specialties and get a better understanding of Corfiot culture and traditions. There are also opportunities to stay in one of the many apartments available for rent in the village or the surrounding area.
It is a fact that this area of Corfu is teeming with interesting locations and historical sites. Many visitors find that they don’t have enough time to visit all the necessary attractions, missing out on many beautiful experiences. The solution to this problem seems to have already been found in the form of the camper van. This form of transportation has become a growing trend in tourism. If you are a nature lover, someone who enjoys sightseeing and discovering new places, then a camper van is ideal for you, as it offers excellent opportunities for exploring as many places as possible, without worrying too much about accommodation or cost. Additionally, a camper van provides another important benefit: it allows those who choose it to be in close contact with nature, the sea, and the true meaning of a vacation. So, whether you choose to camp at an organized campsite or spend a night away from the bustling tourist resorts, you will always have a part of the real Corfiot nature right next to you. If you decide to visit Benitses, Gastouri, and the Achilleion, then you should definitely do it with the comfort and convenience offered by a motorhome.
Through this type of journey, you are not only visiting one of the most beautiful parts of Corfu but also allowing yourself the opportunity to explore the island in the most authentic and immersive way possible. With the freedom of a camper van, you can create your own itinerary, spend more time at the places that truly captivate you, and enjoy the unique atmosphere that each location offers. Whether it’s relaxing on the tranquil beaches of Benitses, exploring the cultural richness of Gastouri, or marveling at the grandeur of the Achilleion, a camper van is the perfect companion for an unforgettable experience in Corfu.