Perched on the slope of Mount Pantokrator, 39 km from Corfu Town, in the northeastern part of the island is a charming, stone housed village with a very unusual name…Rou.
Rou, a strange name
Etymologically, the moniker may arise from “rus” which means river or flow of water, alternatively, the direction of the course of events. It is probable that, due to its location, some stream originally flowed from there. ‘Roux’ also refers to a mixture of butter and flour used as a basis in making or melding sauces. The course of events brought “Rou” to somehow connect or meld Corfu and England within this village.
Until recently, it was nothing more than an almost abandoned settlement. Today it is predominantly an English district, as the British discovered the over 200 year old, quaint, stone houses which they purchased and renovated for either permanent or seasonal (summer) occupation, or to rent to tourists. It may also have gained its appeal with the Brits as the stone masonry is somewhat reminiscent of the quaint English villages.
It is a perfect destination for tourists who want to enjoy the isolation, tranquility, endless sea views and abundant wildlife. Tourists and locals will find this amazingly green area with endless views of turquoise and azure, with its charming neighbourhood of beautifully redesigned, well maintained houses, ideal for their walks. Despite the renovation, the houses have retained their Corfiot character with the strong element of the use of stone.
Above Rou are the settlements of Aixeria, Santa, Megoulas, Tsikouros and Tsitsatika. There is also a road that goes from Rou to Nisaki through the village of Katavolos (6 km from Nisaki), which is partially a dirt road.
Colleagues
Advertisement
Discussion