Walk on Corfu, walk 21

Mirtiotissa along the west coast

Mirtiotissa beach is a special place to discover. The location of the beach is beautiful but not accessible by car.
The bay, described by Lawrence Durrell as "perhaps the loveliest in the world" is protected by high rocks. It is best known as the only place on the island where nude sunbathing and wild camping are 'tolerated'. A few beach bars and a restaurant sell drinks and snacks.

Along the way, a road goes up that ends at the monastery of Mirtiotissa, which is built on the slope of the 392 m high hill. The 15th century monastery takes its name from the myrtle bush under which a little shepherd girl found a Maria icon. The monastery is said to have been founded by a Turk converted to Christianity. The monk likes to show visitors around. The Maria icon in the church is decorated with gifts.

The banana trees that grow here are exceptional for the island. Many orange trees also grow nearby.