Remotely situated in the Ionian Sea between Italy and mainland Greece, the Ionian islands are never-the-less popular, easily accessed by ferry from Brindisi. Corfu (also known as Kerkyra) is the best known destination here, and has an east coast overrun by package tourists, but the best beaches are found on the West coast. It does however boast the loveliest landscape of all the islands with its shimmering olive groves, cypress trees and colourful wildflowers everywhere. The busiest resorts are immediately north of the busy but pleasant and historically interesting Corfu town. More remote and quieter villages are found further North, including Nisaki and Agni.

Ancient ruins are liberally sprinkled about the island, particularly on the Kanoni peninsula.
Paxi, 11kms south of Corfu, is largely free of tourists with only three significant settlements. Lefkada has some of the best natural scenery in the archapelago, and still has traces of ancient island life, but the main town has suffered a series of devastating earthquakes. Ithaki and Kefallonia suffered similar fates, and are now largely underdeveloped but charming none-the-less, with spectacular scenery and designated national parks. In fact many of these islands are more Italian in character. Zakynthos by contrast has embraced tourism with zeal, resulting in a mayhem of mopeds and jetskis, but a pleasant tourism destination if you seek sun, relaxation, good food and entertainment. Kythira is the furthest flung of the lot and while open to tourists, presents an island as yet 'undiscovered'.

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