Wheelchair-Friendly Adventures in Corfu, Greece!

Old Fortress (Palaio Frourio)

Why Visit?

Embark on an enlightening journey around Corfu"s Old Fortress (Palaio Frourio), a gem that impressively blends historical fortifications with breathtaking vistas, all accessible by wheelchair and mobile scooter.

Morning Arrival: Begin your day by arriving at the Old Fortress, located conveniently near Corfu’s city center. Wheelchair users can access the fortress via a modern entrance that bypasses the old bridge. Park at the designated accessible parking spaces close to the entrance.

Touring the Fortress: Once inside, follow the smooth, flat pathways leading to the main attractions. Most paths are paved, making it easy for wheelchair users to navigate. The fortress grounds are expansive, featuring accessible routes marked clearly. As you explore, soak in the rich history of this Venetian marvel built between the 15th and 18th centuries to defend against Ottoman invasion.

Midday Break: Around noon, head to the café located near the entrance, which is equipped with accessible facilities. It’s a great spot to enjoy a refreshing drink or a light meal while overlooking the sea.

Exploring More: Post lunch, continue your tour by visiting the British-built church of St. George, an imposing structure reminiscent of a Doric temple. The church is accessible, and it offers a serene atmosphere alongside historical insights.

Concluding the Experience: As your tour concludes, make sure to visit the higher levels of the fortress. An accessible lift is available to take you to the top, where you can enjoy panoramic views of Corfu town and the sparkling Ionian Sea.

Interesting Fact: Did you know that the Old Fortress not only served military purposes but also housed the Royal Navy’s Admiralty in the Mediterranean during World War I?

This accessible tour of Corfu’s Old Fortress guarantees a fulfilling experience of exploration and admiration for visitors on wheels, ensuring comfort, accessibility, and a journey back in time.

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.

Kanoni

Why Visit?

Wheelchair-Friendly Tour of Kanoni, Corfu

Morning:

Start your adventure in the visually captivating area of Kanoni, located just south of Corfu Town. Your journey begins at the iconic viewpoint for the Vlacherna Monastery and Mouse Island (Pontikonisi). Wheelchair-accessible parking is available near the Café Kanoni, where smooth pathways provide easy access to the viewing platform. Take in the breath-taking panorama, perfect for memorable photos.

Interesting Fact: The Vlacherna Monastery dates back to the 17th century and is connected to the mainland via a causeway. The nearby Mouse Island, according to legend, was formed when Poseidon petrified the ship of Odysseus.

Midday:

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of the wheelchair-accessible restaurants close to the viewpoint, offering traditional Greek cuisine along with the stunning views of the Ionian Sea. The Royal Boutique Hotel, just a short roll away, provides both great food and accessibility.

Afternoon:

Visit the historical site of the Old Fortress in Corfu Town, accessible via a wheelchair-friendly bus line that runs regularly from Kanoni. The fortress offers accessible entrance points, and most pathways inside are smooth and manageable with a wheelchair.

Interesting Fact: Built by the Venetians in the 15th century on the site of a Byzantine construction, the fortress served as a defense against Ottoman invasions and now offers breathtaking views over Corfu Town and the sea.

Late Afternoon:

Conclude your tour with a gentle stroll (or roll) around the charming streets of Corfu Town. Many of the shops and cafes are accessible, allowing you to enjoy the local culture and architecture without hassle.

Getting There:

Kanoni is well-connected by public transport from Corfu Town. Regular buses, equipped with ramps, make the short journey south to this picturesque locale several times an hour.

End your day in Kanoni feeling fulfilled with the beauty and historical intrigue of this stunning part of Corfu, all while enjoying the comfort and convenience suited to your accessibility needs.

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.

Achilleion Palace

Why Visit?

Embark on a mesmerizing journey to Achilleion Palace, a majestic 19th-century neoclassical gem nestled in the heart of Corfu, Greece. Designed for Empress Elisabeth of Austria, this historic palace offers wheelchair-accessible options, ensuring an inclusive experience for all.

Getting There

Begin your adventure by heading to Corfu Town, where you can easily catch accessible public buses or rent a wheelchair-friendly taxi to the village of Gastouri. The journey from Corfu Town to Achilleion Palace typically takes about 20 minutes, winding through scenic landscapes that are sure to captivate.

Exploring Achilleion Palace

Upon arrival, you"ll find specially designed ramps and elevators, enabling smooth access to the palace. Start with the grand entrance, where you’re greeted by Greek mythology-inspired sculptures that line the majestic halls and lush gardens. As you move through the rooms, observe the intricate frescoes and artworks, including the famous painting ‘Achilles Triumphant’ that dominates the main hall.

Wheel through the beautifully manicured gardens, where ramps will guide you amidst vibrant flowers and classical statues. Don"t miss the iconic statue of the Dying Achilles, poignantly depicting the hero’s vulnerability.

Interesting Facts

1. Architectural Marvel: Designed by Italian architect Raffaele Caritto, Achilleion Palace is a blend of mythological elegance and historical resonance, crafted to comfort the grieving Empress after the loss of her son.

2. A Film Location: The palace’s striking beauty has made it a favored filming location, famously featured in the James Bond film ‘For Your Eyes Only’.

Accessibility Tips

1. Restrooms and dining areas within the palace are equipped with accessible facilities.

2. Consider visiting in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds, ensuring a more comfortable navigation through the attractions.

End your tour with a relaxing drink at the palace café, overlooking the Ionian Sea, a perfect spot to reflect on the splendor and story of Achilleion Palace.

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.

Agios Gordios

Why Visit?

Accessible Adventure in Agios Gordios, Corfu

Morning: Arrival and Beach Bliss

Start your day with an accessible ride to Agios Gordios. You can hire a wheelchair-friendly taxi from Corfu Town, which is equipped with ramps and ample space. Upon arriving, head straight to the inviting Agios Gordios Beach. The beach is equipped with wooden pathways making it accessible for wheelchairs and scooters, ensuring you don"t miss out on the sand and sea. Spend the morning soaking up the sun and savoring the views of the Ionian Sea. The beach also offers comfortable sunbeds with umbrellas, perfect for a relaxing start to your day.

Lunch by the Sea

For lunch, visit the Sea Breeze Restaurant, which is known for its accessibility and breathtaking views of the cliffs surrounding Agios Gordios. Enjoy a meal of fresh seafood or Greek salads, with ingredients sourced locally. The restaurant features ramps and an accessible restroom.

Afternoon: Scenic Views and Local Flavors

Post-lunch, take a leisurely stroll or roll along the Agios Gordios promenade. The pathway is paved and offers easy navigation for wheelchairs and scooters. As you move along, enjoy the numerous shops and cafes that line the pathway, all welcoming to visitors with mobility needs.

Evening: Sunset and Cultural Experience

Conclude your day at the Aphrodite"s Garden, a picturesque spot known for its stunning sunset views. The garden has an accessible viewing deck that provides unobstructed views of the sun setting over the Ionian Sea. Additionally, the garden hosts Greek folklore evenings on select days, where you can enjoy traditional music and dance in an accessible setting.

Practical Tips

- Ensure your mobility device is fully charged as the promenade and beach stretches are lengthy.

- Always check ahead for the specific accessibility features at restaurants and attractions.

Agios Gordios promises an accessible and memorable escape with its charm, natural beauty, and thoughtful amenities for all travelers.

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.

Corfu Town

Why Visit?

Wheelchair-Friendly Day Trip in Corrible Corfu Town

Morning: Old Fortress Exploration

Start your adventure at the historical heart of Corfu Town, the Old Fortress. Wheelchair access is available at the entrance, with paved paths leading you to several accessible areas offering stunning views over the town and sea. Although not all areas are wheelchair-accessible due to natural terrain and historic architecture, the main pathways and viewpoints are adapted for all. Park near the entrance or use local buses that cater to wheelchairs, stopping directly outside the fortress.

Midday: Stroll through Spianada Square

From the Old Fortress, head west to the expansive Spianada Square, one of the largest in the Balkans. This flat and accessible area is perfect for a leisurely roll through green spaces and past historical monuments. Each pathway and arcade promises cafes where you can savor Greek coffee or a light lunch. Around the square, the Liston promenade features a series of arches inspired by the Rue de Rivoli in Paris, a perfect backdrop for a midday break.

Afternoon: Archaeological Museum Visit

A short distance from Spianada, the Archaeological Museum of Corfu offers wheelchair-friendly access and facilities. Housing treasures like the ancient Gorgon pediment from the temple of Artemis, this museum provides a glimpse into Corfu’s rich history. Paths are smooth, and elevators connect different exhibition floors, ensuring a comfortable visit for those with mobility challenges.

Late Afternoon: Leisure at Old Port

Conclude your day with a relaxing visit to Corfu’s Old Port. The area is well-paved and flat, ideal for enjoying the sea breeze and watching boats sail by. Accessible restrooms and cafes make it a comfortable spot for everyone to enjoy the closing hours of daylight.

Getting Around

Corfu Town is served by accessible public transport, but for more convenience, consider renting a wheelchair-accessible vehicle. Many attractions are clustered close together, making them reachable via short drives or through the accessible bus system.

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.