Moraitika

Built around a picturesque, natural bay, with a 5 kilometre long sandy beach, the calm, clear, waters lend themselves to snorkeling and scuba diving (there is an exclusive Diving Centre for those requiring tuition). Moraitika has something for everyone and it is ideal for family holidays.

Nestled in the estuary of the Messonghi River, on the southeastern coast, Moraitika is just 20 km from Corfu Town It is essentially a long strip development with hotels and apartments mostly on the beach side and an array of shops, bars, restaurants, bakeries and tourist shops tucked in-between and on the other side. Most of the eateries and tavernas are located on the main road, but there also tavernas on the beachfront.

The beach is organized with sunbeds and umbrellas for hire. It is flanked with excellent beach bars so one can enjoy a cocktail, ouzo, beer  or wine right on the beach, while soaking up the sun and taking in the tranquil view. Gastronomic options are endless; there are traditional tavernas offering local Corfiot cuisine and seafood, as well as a range of British and International dishes to satisfy all palates. Nightlife in Moraitika includes disco clubs and places with live music open till late in the night.

Positioned on the slope of the hill above the tourist strip, the old village is a huge contrast to the bustle below. It is as though it has stood still in time, untouched by development or tourism. With its narrow, village streets, traditional stone houses, draped in bougainvillea, their courtyards amass with colour, it has an air of peace and tranquility. Dotted around are grocery stores reminiscent of a past era, and authentic cafes and tavernas which the locals frequent.

The views from the old village, Ano Moraitika, meaning ‘upper Moraitika’, are lovely, with the olive-grove covered hills and the beautiful blue bay below. The church of Theotokou Kimiseos, at the peak, is blessed with a truly magnificent view over the village, and all the way to the Mainland.

The area has a Water Fun Park with various inflatables and also offers water sports like parasailing and water skiing. Pedalos and jet-skis are available for hire as well. Moraitika is a safe beach, as water remains waist high for some distance. Trees offer natural shade for those who wish to chill with a book and with the surrounding beauty a relaxing walk by the sea or along the river is a lovely pass-time.

In the wider area one can choose to visit the fishing village of Boukari, the mountain village of Chlomos and the amazing Lake Korission wetlands. Moraitika is separated from neighbouring Messonghi only by the river. Messonghi is a charming, fishing village with a long, sandy beach, tavernas and bars, but with a very different, unique identity.

A small temple of the 3rd Century is the reason the area is thought to have been inhabited since the Neolithic years. Judging by the fact that the old village starts from the hill and reaches the sea and the neighbouring area of Messonghi, the area includes in its historical data the ruins of a Greco-Roman building that have been located at the mouth of the river Messonghi.