Located off Greece’s northwest coast, the Ionians offer some of the loveliest natural settings (and beaches) in the country, a fine selection of hotels and restaurants, a distinctive history and lore, and some unusual architectural and archaeological sites. The Ionians are rainier, greener, and more temperate than other Greek islands, with a high season lasting from late June to early September. The roads are generally in good condition, even if unavoidably steep and twisting. Accommodations range from luxury resorts to quiet little rooms on remote beaches. The local cuisine and wines offer numerous special treats. Among the best are sofrito, a spicy veal dish; bourdetto, a spicy fish dish; and the Theotaki and Liapaditiko wines.

1/ Corfu (Kerkira)

There’s Corfu the coast, Corfu the town, and Corfu the island, and they don’t necessarily appeal to the same vacationers. Corfu the coast lures those who want to escape civilization and head for the water—whether an undeveloped little beach, with a simple taverna and some rooms to rent, or a spectacular resort. Then there’s the more cosmopolitan Corfu town, with its distinctive layers of Greek, Italian, French, and British elements. Finally, there’s a third and littleknown Corfu, the interior with its lush vegetation and gentle slopes, modest villages and farms, and countless olive and fruit trees. (It should also be admitted that there’s now a fourth Corfu—rather tacky beach resorts crowded with “package tourists” from Western Europe who sometimes can be a bit raucous. We prefer to think that our readers will know enough to avoid this Corfu.) Whichever Corfu you choose, it should prove pleasing. It was, after all, this island’s ancient inhabitants, the Phaeacians, who made Odysseus so comfortable. Visitors today will find Corfu similarly hospitable.