‘somewhere between calabria and corfu, the blue really begin s… you are aware of a change in the heart of things: aware of the horizon begin ning to stain at the rim of the world: aware of islands coming out of the darkness to meet you’. so begin s lawrence durrell’s 1945 ode to corfu, prospero’s cell. even today, visitors to the island often arrive by sea, approaching from italy in the west of the greek mainland in the east.
in the early morning sunlight, the pastel-hued houses overlook corfu town’s historic port. they create a charming medley of slender levels interconnected by narrow alleyways. laundry hangs from every balcony, resembling vibrant festive bunting swaying in the breeze.
towering venetian mansions, bearing ancient coats of colourful paint softened by countless winters, give town visitors the sensation of stepping into a watercolour masterpiece.
corfu has rightfully earned its reputation as greece’s music capital
the island boasts a multitude of music associations, orchestras, bands, and a musical tradition dating back 400 years to the venetian era of the island.
at the heart of the town lies a broad tree-lined promenade known as the spianada. elegant french arcades reminiscent of rue de rivoli echo through the air. an intriguing british influence can be discovered on this grand square. it transforms into a cricket pitch during the summer, a unique feature as it’s the only operational sports field within a unesco world heritage site.
meanwhile , the corfiot countryside showcases a mournful beauty unparalleled across greece. it contrasts starkly with the stark barrenness of the aegean. drenched in brilliant white sunlight during summer, the island undergoes a sublime transformation thanks to winter rains. this causes lush greenery to blanket the inland valleys, which are thickly carpeted with wildflowers and adorned with gnarled olive trees, while dense groves of swaying cypresses punctuate the landscape.
in the sophisticated northeast, known as “kensington-on-sea,” you’ll find the finest real estate in greece. the imposing summer villa of the rothschild family anchors it. here, the luxury villa lifestyle reigns supreme. hillside properties are secluded amidst the landscape, boasting private infinity pools and awe-inspiring sea views. the enigmatic epirote mountains, crowned in snow, loom mysteriously in the east.
hidden in the enchanting hills of historic ano korakiana, this rare estate offers complete privacy, tranquility, and sweeping views of the countryside, the ionian sea, and the distant mainland. set discreetly behind impressive stone walls, it is both secluded and ideally positioned with easy access to the beaches and cosmopolitan attractions of corfu’s northeast coast.
at the heart of the estate stands an exquisitely restored 1880 manor house, meticulously renovated to an exceptional standard. blending its rich architectural heritage with modern comforts, it offers around 500 sqm of refined living space plus 150 sqm of roof storage. spanning two levels, the home includes five elegant bedrooms and four bathrooms (two en suite), along with two stately living rooms and two individually designed kitchens equipped with professional-grade appliances.
a separate guest apartment provides a spacious double bedroom, a private bathroom, and a beautifully appointed kitchen and living area.
the estate spans 14,000sq.m of grounds, including 10,000sq.m of protected forestland extending behind the house. once cultivated as terraced olive groves, this area has been carefully preserved by the current owner as a sanctuary of native flora and fauna, enriching the property’s natural character and ecological value.
the landscaped gardens span multiple levels, with manicured lawns, stone-paved terraces, and a rich array of mature trees, flowering shrubs, and aromatic plants that bring colour and fragrance throughout. a productive kitchen garden provides seasonal vegetables and fruit trees, while a floodlit sports area encourages year-round outdoor activity.
the pool area is set into the natural contours of the land and positioned to align with the villa’s main living space, creating a seamless indoor–outdoor flow. beside the pool, a fully equipped bar and kitchen—complete with bbq, pizza oven, and shaded dining area—offers an idyllic setting for entertaining, framed by breathtaking sea and countryside views.
the property is equipped with advanced systems designed for comfort, efficiency, and sustainability.
underfloor heating and cooling provide year-round climate control, supported by both solar and electric hot water systems. a large sterna and rainwater catchment system further enhance the estate’s self-sufficiency.
additional features include a pool with a state-of-the-art, low-energy overflow system, a poolside shower and changing area, computerized irrigation, automated garden lighting, cctv and alarm security, and a solid iron gate with intercom entry.
this is a home where timeless charm meets contemporary luxury, embraced by a peaceful natural setting. whether envisioned as a year-round residence or an exclusive retreat, it offers a rare opportunity to own a distinguished piece of corfu’s heritage in a setting of exceptional beauty and tranquility.
this property is eligible for both the golden visa and the greek non dom program.
