Nissaki Holidays

This quiet place on the northeast coast of Corfu is laid out around a trio of coves, with sweeping views over to Albania. Nissaki comes with a clutch of shops and restaurants, and spreads up into the pine-covered foothills of Mount Pantokrator, Corfu’s highest peak. You’ll find some premium hiking trails if you can drag yourself away from the village’s old-world charm and relaxed beach.

The narrow, horseshoe-shaped main beach is made up of white pebbles shelving gently into clear waters. You’ll always find a spot here, even at the busiest times, and there are plenty of sunloungers and parasols to rent. If you’re feeling adventurous you can snorkel around the nearby coves, or hire a boat to explore them.

Behind the village, there are paths leading through the cypress-covered sides of Mount Pandokator – you could pack a picnic and wander off for the day. The 220-kilometre-long Corfu Trail, which winds around the island, passes through the valley behind Nissaki – you’ll get a stunning sea view if you head out along the steep coastal path towards the rocky coves of Katavolos.

For around 60 euros a day you can hire a speedboat and glide around the coastline. A popular destination is Agni, where there’s a pretty, pebbly bay backed by a trio of family-run tavernas. Or you can drive to Corfu Town in about 40 minutes. The island capital wears its Venetian architecture well, though there’s a distinctly Parisienne look to The Liston, an arcade of elegant cafés.