Three Stays, One Island: My Honest Take on Solo Travel in Corfu
I needed a trip where I could reset, enjoy the sea, eat well, and not overthink anything. Corfu delivered. I spent six nights on the island, split between a luxury hotel, a beachfront villa, and a clifftop resort each place with its own vibe, all of them great in their own way.
This was one of those trips where I didn’t plan every hour. I just moved around, soaked it all in, and let the days unfold on their own. Here’s how it went.
Rodostamo Hotel & Spa - Kommeno Peninsula
I started in Kommeno at Rodostamo Hotel & Spa. It's surrounded by olive trees and feels peaceful from the moment you check in. The kind of place where nothing's rushed. I booked a Superior Double with an inland view comfortable, spotless, and done up in calming neutrals with a pop of color in the pillows and throws. It’s designed with care, but nothing feels forced.
Staff were warm and actually helpful, not in the robotic way some resorts can be. They run shuttles to Corfu Town and nearby beaches like Dassia and Ipsos, or you can rent a small boat and explore solo. I did just that and ended up cruising around Kalami Bay, where the Durrells used to live. Clear blue water, hidden coves, no crowds.
There’s a cable car that takes you up to the bungalows and villas scattered across the hill. Next time, I’m definitely staying in one of those some have private pools and sunset views over the marina. I also tried their rosewater-scented massage, and honestly, it was better than I expected. Left feeling completely reset.
Nikolakis Villa – Kerasia Beach (Airbnb)
Next, I booked two nights at Nikolakis Villa, an Airbnb right on Kerasia Beach. And I mean right on the beach. I was barefoot and in the water within minutes of arriving.
The villa has three bedrooms, each with its own en-suite, plus a spacious living room and a full kitchen. You could easily stay there with a group, but even solo, it felt like the perfect escape. Mornings were slow coffee on the terrace, no phone, just the sea in front of me. Evenings were even better.
Kerasia itself is calm and never too busy. There’s a local beach café just steps from the villa that serves great drinks and snacks. Also, Kassiopi is nearby - a small harbor town that’s worth exploring for dinner or a sunset walk.
Shoutout to George, the host. He helped me sort out a completely unrelated issue with a boat rental just out of kindness. That kind of effort sticks with you. Only downside? The Wi-Fi was patchy, but honestly, a bit of disconnection was probably good.
Atlantica Grand Mediterraneo – Ermones
I wrapped things up at Atlantica Grand Mediterraneo, perched on a mountainside overlooking Ermones Bay. The view here is everything. You wake up to this endless sweep of sea and sky, and at night you’ve got swallows flying over the cliffs while you sit by the pool.
The room was big, clean, and even though it was listed as a garden view, I could still see the water. The resort is spread out, with a lot of stairs, but they’ve got a funicular lift to get you around. There’s also a private beach with a bar and a lift to bring you back up after your swim, which came in handy.
Food-wise, it’s all buffet-style, not usually my thing but they pulled it off. Themed nights, fresh fish, a dessert table that’s way too tempting. You get your own table for the whole stay, which keeps things simple. Staff were friendly without being overbearing, and the overall vibe was quiet and relaxed.
There’s a spa, tennis courts, and even a gym, but honestly, I spent most of my time by the pool or just watching the sea. If you want activities, they can hook you up with jeep safaris, diving, or hikes. But I was happy just slowing down.
Lunch with a View – Anemos, Afionas
Hands down, one of the best meals I had was at Anemos in Afionas. The town sits high up with wide open views over the sea, and the restaurant is built to make the most of it. It’s the kind of place where you’ll want to sit for hours. I ordered the grilled octopus and wasn’t expecting much but it was perfect. Smoky, tender, served with fava and lemon oil. I wasn’t even hungry, but I cleared the plate. I stuck around for coffee just to keep soaking up the view. No rush, no noise. Just one of those meals that sticks with you. If you go, time it for late afternoon so you catch the sunset. The whole sky lights up over the water.
Another Food Stop – Taverna Agni
Over in Agni Bay, I had another great lunch at Taverna Agni. This spot is right on the water. Boats literally anchor nearby and people climb out for a bite. I ordered whole grilled seabass with lemon potatoes simple but done so well.
The water was so clear I could see fish swimming under the table. The setting’s casual, the food’s fresh, and the staff actually look like they enjoy working there. You’ll pay a bit more here, but it’s worth every cent.
Best Coffee – Bristol Café, Corfu Town
If you’re walking through Corfu Town (and you definitely should), stop at Bristol Café. It’s got that effortlessly cool look, not trying too hard, just good energy. I had a freddo espresso that was perfectly balanced strong but smooth, not bitter.
I sat outside for a while just watching the world go by. Locals, tourists, shop owners chatting a nice little slice of the town’s rhythm. Decent Wi-Fi too, if you’re trying to plan your next move.
Things To See (and Actually Enjoy)
I kept the sightseeing low-key, but these two stood out:
1. Corfu Old Town
You don’t need a guidebook. Just walk. The Old Town is full of narrow streets, pastel buildings, peeling shutters, and hidden little corners. I spent a few hours just wandering, grabbing gelato, and taking it all in. It’s busy in places but never overwhelming, and every turn has something worth seeing.
2. Paleokastritsa Monastery
This one’s up in the hills with views that feel like they go on forever. It’s peaceful and quiet, and the drive there is part of the experience. The monastery is small, but beautiful in a very simple, grounded way. There’s a café nearby where you can sit with a cold drink and just look out over the coastline.
