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.
located within the archaeologically protected area of palea perithia, corfu’s oldest preserved village, this rare property combines historic authenticity with refined contemporary comfort. the property is part of a fully approved and carefully executed restoration of a building dating back more than 300 years, respecting the architectural heritage and cultural significance of the village.
the main building extends to approximately 300 sq.m. and currently operates as a six-suite boutique hotel. each suite is generously proportioned at around 50 sq.m., offering a level of space and comfort rarely found in traditional village settings. the accommodation includes four one-bedroom suites with bedroom, lounge, and bathroom, one one-bedroom suite with a kitchen, and one twin bedroom.
complementing the main building is a separate studio apartment, affectionately known as the goat house, extending to 40.99 sq.m. and offering independent accommodation for guests, staff, or private use. in addition, the property includes a self-contained one-bedroom unit of approximately 60 sq.m., providing further flexibility.
a fully restored heritage property in corfu’s oldest preserved village, where history and contemporary comfort meet.
the property benefits from private parking—a rare and valuable feature within the village—and also includes a branded 1969 vw beetle in excellent condition, which can be included in the sale, adding a distinctive element to the property.
there is also potential to expand through the acquisition and restoration of adjacent ruins, subject to the necessary approvals, further enhancing its investment appeal.
surrounded by cobbled paths, traditional stone architecture, and an unspoiled natural landscape, palea perithia is renowned for its sense of tranquility, historical importance, and proximity to corfu’s sought-after northeast coastline. the village’s protected status ensures the long-term preservation of its unique character, making properties of this scale, condition, and versatility exceptionally rare.
this is a turn-key opportunity for a boutique hospitality investment, private retreat, or heritage asset in one of corfu’s most evocative and culturally significant locations.
