Guide to Arilas

'Simple village life, charming tavernas and a shimmering sandy beach – what more could you want?'

Peaceful Arilas is one of those parts of Corfu that seems light years away from the holiday hotspots. Sat on the north-west coast amid rolling farmland, it's reached along a road that winds gently through lush green fields – giving a foretaste of the tranquil village to come.
Apart from a few simple tavernas, minimarkets and shops, everything about the place says 'quiet family holiday and sunbathers' territory'. First off is its gorgeous, sandy beach – a ribbon of pillow-soft sand dotted by shingle - stretching down to shallow waters perfect for youngsters. Sandy, grass-topped cliffs and a series of rocky headlands offer a sense of seclusion, so if you're planning on one of those reclusive kinds of beach holiday, you'll be in your element.
Back in the resort, evenings revolve around the traditional tavernas lined up along the single road. Pull up a chair and chat over the day's non-events as you tuck into a plate of oven-baked freshly caught red snapper. And afterwards, get into the swing of things at one of the low-key bars, serenaded by the soft lilt of bouzoukis.
When you need some variety, head into the old-time Corfu of the local villages hidden in the hills. Clamber onto a bus to bargain hunt in Corfu Town. Or strike out inland to Paleokastritsa's picturebook Byzantine monastery to wander around its decorative chapel and museum. While you're there, stock up with the cute miniature bottles of olive oil produced by the monks and sold in the shop – they're perfect gifts for the folks back home.

Evenings here are low-key, with traditional tavernas serving local dishes such as moussaka and kebabs. Or you could try the fresh seafood dishes that feature on the menu such as barbouni (red mullet) or fagri (sea bream). The village itself is compact and charming - it is built around a single, narrow road. Due to its size, there are few tourist attractions, although there are some shops selling essentials and the tavernas offer music in the evenings. Arilas attracts mainly families and couples searching for a small slice of peace and quiet dusted with tradition. There is a limited bus service to Corfu Town.

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