In summer, the southern tip of Corfu is best known for Kavos and its nightlife. But once the resort closes for the season, the whole area goes quiet, and a completely different side of the south appears. Beyond Kavos, a woodland path leads down past a ruined monastery to Arkoudilas beach, one of the most beautiful and least-visited beaches on the island. Nearby, the long sands of Kanouli stretch along the southwest coast. Together they make a perfect late-season day of walking and swimming.
Arkoudilas Beach
Arkoudilas beach lies on the southwest side of Cape Asprokavos, the very southern tip of Corfu. It is a long stretch of golden sand backed by high, pale cliffs and dense green woodland. The water is shallow near the shore and very clear on calm days.
There are no big hotels or rows of sunbeds here, and outside high summer you are likely to see only a handful of people. It feels far more remote than it is, which is exactly its appeal.
The Ruined Monastery
On the hill above the beach stand the ruins of the Monastery of Panagia Arkoudilas. The monastery dates back several centuries and was abandoned long ago, but its bell tower and walls still stand among the trees. It is a peaceful, atmospheric spot with wide views over the sea towards Paxos and the mainland.
The ruins are unfenced and fragile in places, so take care and do not climb on the walls.
The Woodland Walk
The classic way to reach Arkoudilas is on foot. From the end of the road beyond Kavos, a path leads through pine and cypress woods past the monastery and then down to the beach.
- Distance: around a kilometre and a half each way, depending on where you start.
- Time: allow thirty to forty-five minutes each way at a relaxed pace.
- Terrain: a mix of dirt track and footpath. The final descent to the beach is steep in places.
Wear proper walking shoes and bring water, snacks and sun protection, as there may be nothing open on the beach in late October. The walk back up is the hardest part, so leave plenty of daylight. With the clocks going back at the end of October, sunset comes earlier, so plan your return accordingly.
There is also a rough road that leads closer to the beach from the village of Spartera, but conditions vary and it is not suitable for every car. Ask locally about access before you try it.
Kanouli Beach
A short drive northwest along the coast, Kanouli beach is part of a long, sandy stretch on the southwest coast of the island, near the villages of Vitalades and Perivoli. It is backed by low dunes and fields and faces the open sea.
Kanouli is wide, sandy and usually very quiet, particularly in the autumn. It is a lovely place for a long walk along the water’s edge, and on calm days the swimming is excellent. When the wind blows from the west, however, the waves can be strong, so take care.
Getting There via Lefkimmi
From Corfu Town, follow the main road south past the airport and through Moraitika, Messonghi and Argyrades towards Lefkimmi. The drive to the far south takes around an hour.
For Arkoudilas, continue through Kavos and follow the road to its end, where you can park and start the walk. For Kanouli, turn west towards Vitalades or Perivoli and follow the signs down to the coast.
Buses serve Lefkimmi and Kavos, but services are much reduced out of season, and they will not take you to the beaches. A car is by far the easiest option.
What Is Open at the End of the Season
By the end of October, Kavos is almost completely closed. Most bars, restaurants and shops have shut for the winter. On the beaches themselves, you should not expect any facilities.
The villages around Lefkimmi, however, are working communities with a year-round population. You will find cafés, bakeries, small supermarkets and tavernas open for locals, especially in Lefkimmi itself. It is a good idea to buy supplies before heading down to the beaches.
Pairing the Day with Lefkimmi
Lefkimmi is one of the largest towns on Corfu and one of the least visited by tourists. It is a genuine working town, with a river running through its centre, lined with small fishing boats and old houses. Walking along the riverbank, visiting its churches and stopping for a coffee in the main square gives a glimpse of everyday Corfiot life far from the resorts.
A good plan for the day is a morning walk to Arkoudilas and a swim, lunch in Lefkimmi, and an afternoon walk on Kanouli as the sun sets over the sea. If you want more long, empty beaches, the dunes of Issos and Halikounas are a little further north.
Explore the South with Corfu Compass NSK
The south of Corfu rewards anyone with the freedom to explore, especially at the end of the season when buses are limited and the resorts are closed. Corfu Compass NSK offers car rental with advice on routes and conditions, so you can discover the quiet beaches of the island’s southern tip.
Contact Corfu Compass NSK to book your car and explore south Corfu.
