The north-eastern part of Corfu differs from the rest of the island. Here its main characteristic is the tall peaks that rise above the beaches with dense green vegetation almost reaching the sea. If you want to discover the real Corfu, you should head for Episkepsi and make it your base. From here you can walk or cycle to a selection of beautiful villages or for the more robust up to Pantokrator, taking in breathtaking views.

Mt Pantokrator dominates the northern part of the Island and is approximately 1000 meters high. Episkepsi is about 700m above sea level. During the winter months, the mountain is on occasions capped with snow. The road to the top of the mountain goes through the mountain village of Strinýlas, which is well worth a visit. 

Nico's Grill Room

Episkepsi and its neighbouring villages are still untouched by tourism. This village gives us a picture of the real life on the island. There is a taverna, an excellent grillroom that during the season serves food all day as well as a post office which opens at 6pm and a number of small local shops which again, in the main, open in the evenings. Merchants deliver fresh fish, fruit and vegetables to the village often twice daily.

Tzoras House will appeal to those looking for the "hidden" Greece. The village of Episkepsi, one of the oldest on Corfu, is on the lower, north mountainside of Mount Pantokrator, 8km inland from Acharavi on the north coast. The village has ignored the faster pace of life outside and is a peaceful retreat. 

Tzoras House lies on the edge of the village with wonderful views down the hillside and forested valley and over the north coastline to the satellite islands of Erikoussa, Othoni and Mathráki and across to Albania. The house, the original part of which is three hundred years old, has been completely renovated to create a comfortable home set in a sleepy and friendly village away from the crowds.

There are many beautiful walks in this hidden part of Corfu and we have two mountain bikes available for rent for more strenuous exploration. The immediate area in the foothills of Mount Pantokrator is known for its wild tortoises and orchids. Each village will have at least one or two kafenion. They are usually close to the village square and are easily identifiable, as there will be a few tables and chairs. Although a coffee shop, you will also find many drinking ouzo, brandy, beer and soft drinks and the kafenion in Episkepsi also sells a few essential groceries and an eclectic range of goods from champagne to boot polish. The kafenion is the place where the local men meet to gossip, participate in political discussion and sometimes play the occasional game of cards or tavli, which is similar to backgammon.