Introduction
Perched on the western hills of Corfu, the small villages of Pelekas and Lakones make a delightful pair where sea views, whitewashed lanes, traditional tavernas and a preserved slice of local life come together. Less than a 15-minute drive from one another, these two spots are perfect for a balanced outing: jaw-dropping views over the Ionian Sea and the west coast, historic viewpoints, and the gentle rhythm of Greek village life away from the bustle of Corfu Town (Kerkyra).
The stroll between Pelekas and Lakones can be a reflective half-day wander or a full-day outing with shady café stops, sunset photo sessions and swims in nearby coves. Another highlight is the vernacular architecture — stone houses, cobbled alleys and small squares — that makes walking around a very visual experience. Locals, often attached to tradition, still run occasional markets, religious celebrations and family-style meals served in small family tavernas.
For hikers and panorama lovers, the walk up to the famous Kaiser’s Throne (or Belvedere) from Pelekas delivers immediate rewards: a broad natural terrace overlooking the sea, perfect for watching the sun sink to the horizon. In Lakones, the viewpoint known as « Bella Vista » (often linked to the Bella Vista taverna) is another highlight, offering a spectacular vista over Paleokastritsa bay and its islets. These viewpoints are more than just photo ops — they carry the history of aristocratic promenades, foreign occupations and Corfu’s long-standing appeal to travellers and painters.
This guide has two goals: to give you an immersive, practical description of the walk between Pelekas and Lakones, and to serve up precise, usable info — addresses, opening times, price ranges, tips for the best light for photos, route suggestions and local tips for eating and staying overnight. Whether you arrive by car from Corfu Town, on a scooter for a bit of adventure, or on a local bus for a slower immersion, these villages will charm you with their simplicity and strong visual character. Lace up your walking shoes, charge your camera and bring your curiosity: West Corfu has panoramas and encounters that stick with you long after you leave.
Pelekas: the village, the Kaiser’s Throne and practical details
Pelekas is a traditional hillside village about 14 km west of Corfu Town (Kerkyra). Practical address: Pelekas, 49083 Corfu, Greece. The village is best known for its viewpoint called the Kaiser’s Throne (also referred to as « Kaiser’s Seat » or simply Belvedere). The viewpoint is under a 10-minute walk from the village’s main square. Approximate GPS for the belvedere: 39.6025° N, 19.7250° E (search « Kaiser’s Throne Pelekas » on Google Maps or your chosen navigation app).
Access and opening hours: Pelekas belvedere is a public space and usually has no opening hours or ticketing — access is free year-round, 24/7. For safety and comfort, plan to visit during daylight hours (sunrise and sunset are especially magical). The main square with its cafés opens early at around 08:00 and tavernas typically close around 23:00, with a common afternoon break between 15:00 and 18:00 outside the high season.
Prices and services: the walk and the viewpoint are free. A coffee in a square café costs roughly €2.50–4.50 for a Greek coffee or cappuccino. Local tavernas serve traditional dishes — moussaka, souvlaki, local fish — with mains usually between €8 and €17 depending on the taverna and the season. For instance, a plate of fried calamari might run €9–14, while a grilled fish could be €12–20.
Immersive description: as you stroll through Pelekas, look for whitewashed façades, brightly painted shutters and the small white chapels dotted through the village. The central square (Plateia) is the social heart: a shaded bench, a tiny mini-market, and terrace seats where locals sometimes play cards in the late afternoon. Visiting at the end of the day, warm light sculpts the hills and the distant sea, offering perfect conditions for photography and quiet contemplation.
Lakones and the Bella Vista viewpoint: address, restaurant and views over Paleokastritsa
Lakones, often listed as « Lakones, Corfu », sits on the road toward Paleokastritsa, famous for its turquoise waters and rocky coves. Practical address: Lakones, 49083 Corfu, Greece. The village overlooks Paleokastritsa bay and its most famous viewpoint is linked to the Bella Vista taverna (Bella Vista Restaurant & Café), located at the entrance to the viewpoint. Recommended restaurant address: Bella Vista Taverna, Lakones, 49083 Paleokastritsa, Corfu. Local phone: +30 2663 0xxxxx (numbers vary; check before you go).
Hours and prices: most tavernas in Lakones, including Bella Vista, are open from about 10:00 until midnight in high season (June–September). Outside high season, hours may be reduced — aim for 12:00–22:00 to be sure of service. Indicative prices at Bella Vista: starters €5–9, mains €10–18, desserts €4–6. A scenic coffee is €2.50–4 and a 0.5 L carafe of local wine is around €6–10.
Description of the viewpoint: Lakones’ viewpoint gives a dramatic outlook over Paleokastritsa bay, with layered islets and emerald waters stretching out before you. The landform means morning and evening light produce very different atmospheres: morning light sharpens the water’s colours, while at sunset the coastline silhouettes against often fiery skies. Bella Vista’s terrace is ideal for a long lunch, a coffee break or a romantic dinner — many tables face the sea to make the most of the panorama.
Practical tips: arrive early if you want a table with the best view, especially in high season. Parking at the top is limited; consider parking on the roadside and walking a few minutes. Trails around Lakones can be steep and sometimes unmarked: comfortable walking shoes and water are recommended. Bring a hat and sunscreen as shade is limited at the viewpoint.
Hiking and route between Pelekas and Lakones: paths, durations and suggested stops
The walk between Pelekas and Lakones is doable on foot for fit walkers or by combining walking with taxi/scooter legs. Approximate distance: 4–6 km depending on the route, with moderate elevation changes (regular ups and downs). A recommended loop: start at Pelekas (main square), climb to the Kaiser’s Throne, descend toward the coast, cross minor country roads, then climb up to Lakones and its viewpoint. Estimated walking time (without stops): 1.5–2 hours. With photo stops, a swim and lunch: allow 4–6 hours.
Trails and safety: intermediate trails are often mixed (paved road and dirt tracks). Sunny sections have little shade — plan at least 1.5 L of water per person in summer, wear a cap and closed shoes if you’ll be on dirt tracks. Local maps (Google Maps, Maps.me) show possible pedestrian shortcuts, but some mountain lanes are narrow and used by scooters. Avoid unmarked trails if you’re unsure of the route.
Points of interest en route: besides the Kaiser’s Throne and Bella Vista, stop at the informal « Kaiser’s Garden » (small natural terraces), rural chapels (e.g. chapel of Agios Georgios — many private chapels dot the hills) and traditional olive groves where you can spot centuries-old trees. If you extend the hike toward Paleokastritsa, the Monastery of Theotokos of Paleokastritsa (Monastery of Paleokastritsa) is a possible detour — address: Monastery of Paleokastritsa, Paleokastritsa 49083, Corfu, Greece. Note: the monastery sometimes charges a small entry fee (about €2–4) and is generally open 08:00–18:00 in high season.
Alternatives and transport: if you want to cut down on walking, combine bus and taxi. Local bus lines (KTEL Corfu) serve Paleokastritsa and nearby stops; timetables vary by season — check Corfu Town bus station or KTEL Corfu website. Taxis and local ride services can make the Pelekas–Lakones transfer in 10–15 minutes for about €10–20 depending on negotiation and season. Scooter rentals typically cost €15–30/day low season and €25–40/day high season.
Local practical tips: where to eat, where to sleep, seasons and best times
Where to eat: for an authentic experience, favor small family-run tavernas and local dishes. A few recommended spots:
- Bella Vista Taverna — Address: Bella Vista, Lakones, 49083 Paleokastritsa, Corfu. Indicative prices: meze €5–9, mains €10–18. Evening reservations recommended in high season.
- Taverna Panorama (Pelekas) — located on Pelekas’ main square. Approx address: Plateia Pelekas, 49083, Corfu. Traditional dishes and generous portions, mains €8–16.
- Taverna To Kyma (Paleokastritsa, if you extend your visit) — Address: Paleokastritsa Beachfront, 49083, Corfu. Fresh seafood €12–25.
Where to sleep: options range from family-run guesthouses to charming hotels. Examples:
- Pelekas Hills Hotel — Address: Pelekas, Corfu 49083. Approximate rates: €60–150/night depending on season and room type.
- Hotel Bella Vista (Lakones) — Address: Lakones, 49083 Corfu. Approximate rates: €80–180/night in high season.
Seasons and best times: high season runs from June to the end of September — the best time to enjoy open terraces and warm temperatures, but also the busiest. May and October offer pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds and great light for photography. For the best light, aim for sunrise for clear tones on the water or sunset for dramatic silhouettes against the sea.
Local practical tips:
- Cash: some small tavernas don’t take cards; carry euros for modest purchases (€5–30).
- Parking: parking is limited in Lakones and Pelekas during high season — arrive early morning or late afternoon to secure a spot near the viewpoint.
- Respectful dress: chapels and monasteries expect modest clothing (shoulders covered, no very short shorts) even if entry is free or symbolic.
- Photography: red flag for drone use — check local rules and common sense around private homes and religious sites.
Conclusion
The walk between Pelekas and Lakones is one of those experiences that feels both simple and deeply evocative: an afternoon of walking and taking in the view can turn into a lasting memory of sea colors, sun-bleached stone and shared Greek meals. From the tranquil panorama at the Kaiser’s Throne in Pelekas to the commanding outlook over Paleokastritsa from Lakones, each stop reveals a piece of island Corfu — wild yet welcoming.
Practically speaking, these villages are easy to reach from Corfu Town by car, scooter or local bus. The addresses given (Pelekas, 49083 Corfu; Lakones, 49083 Paleokastritsa, Corfu) make useful reference points when planning your route. Most activities are free (walks, viewpoints) while food and accommodation remain affordable for many budgets: expect €8–20 for a main course in a taverna and €60–180/night for lodging depending on comfort level and season.
To make the most of this escape, bring comfortable shoes, water, a hat and a charged camera or smartphone. Arrive early if you want to avoid crowds and nab the best terrace tables at Bella Vista; be ready to chat with locals — they often share great tips about lesser-known coves or secret paths. Above all, respect the places you visit: Pelekas and Lakones owe much of their charm to their authenticity and the quality of local life. Travelling respectfully helps keep that charm intact for years to come.
