Corfu

Now, let us tell you another, even older story, which reveals the timelessness of the appeal of Corfu.

Let’s go back to the 19th century. Princess Sissi – Empress Elisabeth of Austria and Queen of Hungary – was known as “the lonely empress”. From day one, her life has been marked with turmoil and political intrigue. On a day blessed by the Greek sun, she arrives on Corfu – and she’s instantly enamoured with it. Here, she finds the serenity she craves; the nature that excites her; echoes of the ancient myths she adores; the sound of waves that soothes her soul.

Such was Sissi’s love for the island and Greece in general that she even learned the language and spent prolonged periods of time here. After the tragic loss of her only son, Rudolf, Sissi commissioned a stately palace in Gastouri to be dedicated to him. Its theme? Achilles, the brave but tragic hero from the Iliad. He’s found in statues and paintings, while the panoramic balconies and scenic location serve the visitor of the Achilleion with memorable vistas of rolling hills and the glistening sea stretching to the horizon.

After changing many hands throughout the centuries, the Achilleion is now owned by the Greek state. It serves as a museum certainly worth visiting and it’s also just 10km from the hotel. Merging the 19th century together with Greek antiquity and Corfu’s nature, it plays host to fascinating sculptures, antiquities and impressive architecture by Raffaele Carita.

Imagine a villa literally fit for a king, hidden away in a verdant forest dotted with ancient columns, historic bastions and real-life antiquities.

Mon Repos served as the summer residence of King George I of Greece, and you’ll know why it was equipped to have this honour as soon as you lay your eyes on it. There’s an unmistakable energy in this location – a timeless elegance – and echoes of important men and women from across history everywhere you look.

Built in 1824 for British High Commissioner Sir Frederick Adam, Mon Repos is a stately home fully renovated in the late 20th century to house the Paleopolis Archaeological Museum, all amidst the fragrance of over 2,000 rare species of plants adorning its botanical gardens – both endemic and transported from the British colonies in the 19th and 20th centuries.

Mon Repos is just 20km north of Moraitika along a scenic seaside route. A visit will treat you to a potent combination of ancient history, majestic 19th century architecture, Ionian nature and Corfiot hospitality.

Step into the shoes of ancient and recent royalty at Mon Repos.

Nothing says “Mediterranean” like the feeling of warm sand on the soles of your feet, the soothing rays of the Greek sun on your skin and the sight of the clear sapphire waters as you prepare to take a dive.

Corfu’s 217km (135 mile) coastline leaves nothing to chance for lovers of the aquatic element. Both organised and virgin beaches, secret coves and scenic capes set the tone for your passionate love affair with the sea this summer.

In fact, there’s even a beach that, according to legend, can find you your soulmate. The Canal d’Amour is a small, turquoise cove with a naturally occurring tunnel where a swim will land you “the one” for life.

But there’s so much more: iconic Sidari, expansive lagoon Lake Korrision where everywhere feels like the perfect spot, golden-sanded Issos, Cape Drastis’ trees competing in colour with the waters, the aptly-named Paradise Beach… At Moraitika, you’re surrounded by the best beaches in Corfu!

When you’re ready to venture away from your home away from home at Domes Miramare Corfu, all you need is to speak to our friendly staff.

We’ll arrange your visit to the very best beaches in Corfu from the Miramare by boat or car.