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Gouvia holidays
Gouvia is a modern seaside resort with hotels and villas to suit all tastes and budgets. The old fishing village, built on the site of an ancient Venetian port, has retained its Venetian charm, with charming seaside restaurants serving superb locally prepared dishes. The long sandy and pebbled beach offers plenty to do, while the old town has a historic marina and shipyards to explore.
- Flight time
- 3h + 15 mins
- Currency
- €
- Euro
- GMT + 2h
Getting to Gouvia
Direct flights from London and other UK locations take approximately 3 hours and 15 minutes to Corfu International Airport (CFU). Many Gouvia hotels offer convenient transport services to whisk you directly to your accommodation. Alternatively, taxis are readily available at the airport.
Average weather in Gouvia
- Temperature (°C)*
- Rainfall (Inches)*
Holidays in Gouvia
Compared to Corfu's other resorts, Gouvia's nightlife is much more relaxed. While it does have places to eat and drink in a relaxed atmosphere, with great ocean views, if you want to party, you'll have to head to the capital or to resorts like Kavos. The marina is a favourite spot and has some popular bars and restaurants where you can dream of owning a super yacht while enjoying the local cuisine. We recommend a bar in the centre of Gouvia, the Old School Rock Bar, which comes alive at night and is renowned for its cocktails and its mix of rock, soul, funk and reggae music.
A former Venetian naval base, Gouvia is now a lively seaside resort offering probably the most varied choice of cuisine on the island. The marina is the perfect place to sample locally caught seafood, and nothing beats Taverna Aries. All dishes are prepared from the catch of the day, and the large prawns served with salad and potatoes are very popular, as are the Greek dance performances. Da Roberto e Fei is the best Italian restaurant in town. You'll find the best pizzas, pastas and calzones in Corfu. Burgers, waffles and crêpes are the stars of Fresh, which has a limited menu but makes every bite a pleasure. Our final recommendation is the Indian restaurant Karnveer, which serves excellent, authentic cuisine with a twist. Kanveer is also a beer bar with a wide range of local and international beers on tap and on draught.
For an unforgettable shopping experience, plan a day trip to Corfu during your stay in Gouvia. Here you'll find an astonishing array of unique treasures, from handcrafted jewellery and fine leather goods to one-of-a-kind ceramics and intricate olive wood carvings. Imagine wandering through the charming labyrinthine streets of the old town, discovering quirky shops and bustling markets hidden around every corner.
Corfu's main shopping area stays busy late into the night, despite the 2-5pm siesta. The shopkeepers are wonderfully friendly, always ready to chat and help you find what you need. And the best part? Shopping in Corfu has a particular advantage: you can have your purchases delivered straight to your hotel, at a time that suits you, and pay only at reception. It's like a traditional version of Amazon Prime :-)
But let's not forget Gouvia itself. Local shops offer all the essentials to make your stay comfortable, as well as a range of places to buy clothes, jewellery and souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful holiday.
Activities in Gouvia
Gouvia has plenty to keep you entertained. Explore the historic Venetian marina and shipyards, with their old buildings and seaside restaurants, or head into Corfu's hilly interior, along paths that take you to traditional villages with stunning views. On the beach, go scuba diving or stay on the water by hiring a pedalo for some slow-paced fun.
Watersports in Gouvia
Diving in Gouvia
Get ready to plunge into the captivating underwater world of Corfu, a haven for lovers of cave diving. Gouvia was our gateway to this underwater adventure, with businesses offering top-tier diving equipment, instruction, certification, and guided trips to the most sought-after dive sites.
We loved the island of Colovri, an underwater landscape of rock formations and corals, a playground that invites exploration. Teeming with multi-hued shoals of marine life, every nook and cranny held a new surprise.
Another popular site is The Caves, beckoning divers with two mysterious caverns connected by a 20m submerged tunnel, reaching depths of up to 23m.
For a showcase of diverse sea life, the House Reef and Monastery dives are the spots to hit. Here, you'll be treated to an underwater spectacle of Octopus, Shrimp, Crayfish, Blue Comber, Barracuda and Moray Eels.
The grand finale of our diving adventure was the awe-inspiring Hole of Ha. A dive through a cavern reveals the inside of a mountain, offering an incredible sight of the open sky flanked by tree-covered cliffs. It's a sight that left us speechless - an unforgettable diving experience.
Surfing in Gouvia
While Gouvia might not be renowned as a surfing hotspot with high, curling waves, that doesn't mean that surfing enthusiasts can't find their niche here, and this area of Corfu has its own unique charm and opportunities for lots of other water sports.
If you're new to surfing or prefer a more laid-back wave, Gouvia can sometimes provide rideable conditions. Gentle waves for beginners and those looking to polish their skills without the intensity of larger swells.
Not a famous surfing spot, Gouvia does have the the serene atmosphere, stunning landscapes, and crystal-clear waters loved by riders communing with the ocean, holding its own allure for those seeking a different kind of surfing adventure.
Across the 2,000 islands of Greece, the top surf location is Costa Navarino where the autumn and winter Ionian Sea creates some good swells that break on the many accessible beaches in the area, including surfers' fave Lagouvardos. Newbies can try Ikaria if Gouvia isn't going-off, or Crete and Tinos.
Windsurfing & kitesurfing in Gouvia
Corfu is a windsurfer's delight, boasting a rich windsurfing culture and plenty of options for equipment hire and lessons, particularly in the Gouvia area. An added bonus is that the island's compact size ensures the best windsurfing spots are never far away from your resort.
Nestled in the sandy dunes of this area is Surf Centre Corfu. This wind and kite surfing haven provides lessons for all levels of ability, ensuring a comprehensive surf experience. Whether you're an expert seeking a thrilling ride or a beginner looking to learn, Corfu offers an appealing and vibrant windsurfing environment.
The west coast of Corfu is particularly noteworthy for windsurfing. The area's rocky landscape directs the sea breezes to create optimum conditions for catching some serious wind. Among the beaches here, Agios Georgios stands out with its stunning beauty and windsurfing popularity, closely followed by the neighbouring Lake Korission.
Sailing in Gouvia
Gouvia is an excellent base for exploring the spectacular coastlines of Corfu and the surrounding islands. You can charter a private yacht or join a group on an organised excursion from the thriving marina. Many boats offer quality food and drink on board and take you to the most picturesque spots in the area. Other boat trips will take you to secluded bays and beaches where you can swim and explore, before returning to the boat for a buffet lunch. Popular excursions include Poseidon Bay, the Blue Lagoon and the island of Mourtos with its caves.
Fishing in Gouvia
For those with a love of the sea and a knack for fishing, boat trips from the major resorts on Corfu, including Gouvia, are an easy and unforgettable option. Your oceanic journey typically begins after an early breakfast and unfurls over a half or whole day.
All of this sea-faring excitement can often come with delightful food and local beverages, with your catch of the day featuring prominently in the meal. And for those seeking an alternate experience, evening trips are often available, with a unique fishing experience under a stunning sunset, adding to the romance of your adventure on the high seas.
Throughout the trip, you'll have a seasoned skipper and crew at your side. They'll teach you how to handle the fishing gear and use cutting-edge tech to lead you to the best fishing grounds, ensuring a plentiful catch. For those who prefer sun over surf, there are stops at hidden beaches for swimming and sunbathing.
Canoeing & kayaking in Gouvia
Gouvia may not be on the world canoeing map, but that doesn't mean it doesn't offer the charm of this tranquil water activity. On our last visit, several companies were offering canoe hire and lessons in their range of water sports, ready to facilitate your sea adventure.
With Gouvia's typically calm seas, canoeing becomes a delightful way to see the coastline from a whole new perspective. It's a chance to discover hidden coves and access remote beaches, some of which are only accessible by sea. So let yourself be seduced by the serenity and appeal of canoeing in Gouvia, and by new adventures.
Land activities
Golf in Gouvia
Corfu is home to just one golf course, but it has the reputation of being one of the (Greek) golf world's best-kept secrets. Nestling in the lush green valley of Ropa, Corfu Golf Club blends masterfully into its naturally picturesque surroundings. For those interested in the history of golf, Corfu Golf Club boasts a tradition dating back to 1973, a testament to the enduring appeal of golf on the island. The 18-hole course, designed by Swiss architect Donald Harradine, is an elegant interweaving of tree-lined fairways, each curving elegantly around seven man-made lakes. The backdrop of rolling hills and towering mountains only adds to the visual pleasure. The 6th hole is a real test of skill, with a water hazard replicating the shape of the island of Corfu and requiring a precise tee shot. Once you've finished your round, treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the Club House, built from local stone.
Cycling & mountain biking in Gouvia
While Gouvia might not immediately spring to mind as a cycling paradise, it nonetheless offers a delightful adventure for those keen to explore on two wheels. The island's modest size means a day’s ride could take you on a scenic tour across its entire expanse. Brace yourself for rewarding challenges, from the steep inclines in the rugged north, to serpentine roads and adrenaline-spiking hairpin bends. The picturesque surroundings are a constant, promising breathtaking vistas at every turn. Several local outfits provide bicycle hire, letting you easily saddle up and hit the road, so be sure to ask them to borrow safety gear and puncture kit due to the rural riding environment. Armed with these, you're all set to conquer Corfu by bike and immerse yourself in its natural beauty!
Walking & hiking in Gouvia
From Gouvia, numerous paths await to guide you on short adventures, from the serene seaside to the tree-covered hills, where the captivating views of the Ionian Sea are your reward. Get off the beaten track and explore secret trails through the island's wooded mountains to find hidden gems of tavernas serving delicious local dishes in the cool shade.
A cornerstone of the island's hiking experience is the renowned Corfu Trail. Inaugurated in 2001, this well-marked and well-maintained trail crosses the entire island and, although it takes a week to complete in its entirety, many hikers opt for day-long sections. Enter the beauty of Corfu and leave nothing to chance!
With its enchanting landscapes, historic wonders, exquisite cuisine and pleasant climate, Corfu is an irresistible setting for an invigorating walk or hike.
