Dancing in Corfu

Folk dance in Greece is enjoyed today, as it was in ancient time. Dance has always played a role in the life of a Greek. It is as much art, as an expression of human feelings.

There are different dance styles from all over the islands, and the surrounding mainland areas. There are 4,000 traditional dances that are enjoyed in all the regions of Greece.

The Ionian Islands also known as Eptanisia, meaning the seven islands were reunited with Greece in1864. Their music was highly influenced by Italy with main instruments being the guitar, violin, flute and in recent times, the mandolin.

The people from Corfu are particularly musical and famous for their ‘kantades’. The dances are graceful, flirtatious and sometimes with swaying movement. Dances from these islands include Syrtos, Ballos, Ai Yiogis, Fourlana, Rouga, Korakianitikos,Thiakos and Tsirigotikos.

 

7th Heaven Café and Bar in Corfu

I discovered that the hunt for Corfu’s best beach bar is a labour of love. There are so many to choose from, and so much natural beauty to appreciate when you finally arrive.

My second choice, La Grotto Bar in Paleokastritsa is worth checking out, but I fell in love with 7th Heaven Café and Bar.

Located on the edge of the cliff in Peroulades, the panoramas from the rock cliffs on Loggas Beach are spectacular from the bar’s rope and wood swings. Yes, you read it correctly, there are several swings dangling from the bar’s oak beam. The simple pleasure of swinging back and forth like a child, while glancing out at a warm sandy beach, is priceless. Your favourite cocktail in hand, brings it to the next level of pleasure.

We stood in line to secure a photo of us on the glass viewing platform that left me dizzy with delight. It was a windy day, early in May, and I easily claimed a free swing to watch the sun twinkling over the shades of blue green in the Ionian Sea.

There is a steep staircase that meanders down to the beach below, but make sure you grab a yummy burger or sandwich to fortify your strength to face this invigorating trek.
This place is a treat to all your senses. From the heady music that evokes sweet memories, to the smell of fresh sea breeze, and the feeling of freedom as you swing up to clouds, Seventh Heaven Café & Bar ticks all the boxes.

 

Corfu’s Paleokastritsa Monastery

 

The monastery is located on the north west side of Corfu. It sits high on a remote, with breathless views island and Ionian sea.
I was grateful to be driving because the ten minute climb up a steep road, , but walkers are awarded with stunning views one of Corfu’s top beaches, Paleokastritsa beach.

 
The monastery is home to 8 Greek Orthodox Monks who graciously welcome visitors by offering tours of the grounds. Admission is free but they appreciate a tip.

According to legend it was built in 1228, but most of the buildings are from the 18th century. In the monastery you will find a small museum that contains Byzantine icons.

I feel in love with the inner courtyards. The warm morning sun spilled out over the monk’s cells, flower pots spilling over with flowers, and ancient archways.  In the small chapel there is a beautiful painting on the ceiling.

Within one of the original monks cells a shop has been established that sells religious artifacts, hand made crafts and small bottles of oil pressed by the monks.