Porto Timoni - legendary twin bay

Some travel guides still refer to the twin bays below the picturesque mountain village of Afionas as an "insider tip". You know immediately that the author has not been there for many years, if at all. Because over the last decade, this place has changed from an oasis of tranquillity to one of Corfu's hot spots. Peace and quiet is no longer to be expected, at least from June to September. But it's still worth a trip there.

The way to Gemini Bay

As with our hike to Afionas From the Honigtal farmland we head towards the beach and then, with our eyes on the sea, turn right until the path leads us over the rugged rocks at the foot of the mountain that closes off the bay of Agios Georgios.

Pro tip: In the summer months, tackle the ascent right after breakfast; in the midday heat, which lasts until late afternoon, it is very strenuous; the path is brutally direct in the sun and offers no shade.

Spectacular view

The way

Once at the top, we take the Branch off to the leftwhich leads us below the "Porto Timoni" taverna directly to the twin bays. The trick here is to follow the challenging path and the spectacular view at the same time.

The goal

After around 20 minutes we see our destination: Two bayswhich are separated by a narrow strip of land. The smaller one on the land side is called "Limni" ("sea"), the larger one to the open sea "Porto Timoni" ("Timoni harbor", also known as "tax harbor").

The story

In the past, this was Olive oil in clay jugs which is why shards of clay keep appearing on the bottom. Also Pirates took advantage of Porto Timoni as a base and hiding place for their mostly nocturnal raids, these rags.

A very special experience!

The color and temperature of the sea in the two bays differ: while Limni offers us somewhat warmer water that shimmers turquoise, Porto Timoni amazes with its refreshing coolness of deep blue. Diving into it is a very special experience! At this bay, which is just three meters deep and where expensive yachts like to anchor, there is another beach that can be reached via the continuation of the path or across the water and which offers a bit of seclusion.

On the main beach, however, there is a boat rental service and sun loungers and parasols can also be hired here. Due to the scarcity of space, you are inevitably close to your neighbor.
For the way back to Agios Georgios, we treat ourselves to a cab boat, which we have either ordered in advance or simply call using the telephone number offered in the bay. The short ride is fun and pleasantly cool.