Boat trip to Mathraki
We start in the small harbor of Agios Stefanos
The small, quaint port of Agios Stefanos is located around ten kilometers from the Honigtal farmland. We drive through the neighboring bay of Arillas and reach the harbour with its small fishing boats.
On the boat trip to our destination, we make a stop at the small island of Diaplo to explore the infinitely beautiful underwater world. It's worth taking a snorkel and swimming goggles with you. At the rocks of Diaplo and Diakopo you can dive into the crystal-clear water and be enchanted. From here we continue to Mathraki.
The little pearl Mathraki
The Diaponti Islands are located northwest of Corfu. They include the three inhabited islands of Othoni, Erikussa and Mathraki. They are less developed for tourism. Your boat trip will take you to the smallest of these three islands. Mathraki was long used for agriculture by the inhabitants of the larger island of Othoni. It was not until the 19th century that some families moved to this island. Today, around three hundred inhabitants live on the island all year round.
The special history of the residents
Many residents emigrated to America in the 19th century. Many now use their houses as retirement homes. The often very pretty houses and the well-tended gardens make an impression on visitors. And everything lies in indescribable peace and quiet. Every now and then a car drives by. Otherwise, the island welcomes visitors with endless tranquillity. There are also many pine groves on the island, which further emphasize the Mediterranean atmosphere.
The island hike
The owner of the small store and coffee shop in the southern part of the island has lived in New York for most of his life. Now he opens his store to the few locals and visitors to the island. You can take a break here during the two-hour hike. Time seems to have stood still here. Visitors are made all the more welcome. Here you can enjoy the small island to the full over a coffee or a glass of wine.
Bathing fun on a deserted beach
Before we return to the harbor from the island hike, we walk along a long, deserted sandy beach. Swimming in the sea here is an incomparable pleasure. Protected by the island, the sea is almost always calm and smooth. You can simply let yourself drift in the sea and enjoy the peace and solitude. We take our time on this day and stop off at the taverna at the harbor.
Finish at the port of Mathraki
The owner of the taverna at the harbor, his wife and daughter are happy to spoil guests with fresh dishes. Here you can simply reflect on your hike and learn a thing or two over a chat with the tavern owner. Especially in this peace and seclusion, you can get an idea of how the Greek way of life, the 'siga-siga', slowly-slowly, came about.
Breathtaking views of the west side of Corfu
On the way back, you can study the coast of Corfu particularly well. You can see the three large north-western bays and the towering hills in between. It is not uncommon for dolphins to join the boat. They can often be seen here, even if nobody can guarantee it. During the crossing, you can simply relax and enjoy the sea and the afternoon sun.