Where to practice an individual sport Ionian Islands

In 1965, Charalampos Tsaousoglou bought the Xenia Hotel in Corfu. His cousin Cleon Kedros from Trieste, a golf enthusiast, and his good friend Constantin Karamanlis, former president of the Greek democracy, are said to have suggested that Corfu needed a golf course to become a high quality tourist resort. More than 50 years later, golf enthusiasts will tell you that it is one of the best golf courses in Europe, and one of their best kept secrets. It was designed by the famous Swiss architect Donald Harradine and blends in nicely with nature.

The races usually start in May. The start and finish are at the port of Kassiopi, north of Pantokrator. The routes, from 9 to 35 km, are laid out among the most beautiful natural landscapes of the island, especially along the coast. The paths through the villages are those used by the locals fleeing pirate attacks in the past. The race will even take the runners through the old fortress. An exceptional way to discover Corfu in all the diversity that makes up its splendour.

Discover Lefkada through off-season hikes, here is the idea of Walking Lefkada. Accommodation and meals are also available on request. Among the hikes, you can follow the one starting from the picturesque village of Karia where the traditional embroideries of the island are made. The walk from Eglouvi is also magnificent: you cross vineyards and discover the church of Saint-Donatos to end on the fertile plateau of Englouvi where the lentils that have made the reputation of this small village are grown.

Janet, the owner of the riding school, is a Swede who fell in love with the island of Lefkada. She offers horseback riding for beginners and more experienced riders. The ride to the beach of Aghios Giannis to watch the sunset is very romantic and ideal for couples. The ride to the Melissa Gorge is also spectacular: through the mountain and the pine trees you will discover the hidden side of Lefkada, its abundant nature. But you can also stop with children for a 10 minutes walk.

A very professional riding school that has been operating on the island since 1994. For beginners, you will be initiated with instructors who speak English. For the others, you can ride more freely on the beaches or hills of the island. The center works with several resorts and can pick you up directly at the hotel to take you on a tour. They are always accompanied by an experienced English, Dutch and/or Greek speaking guide.

From the small port of Avlemonas begins one of the oldest hiking trails on the island. Its creation and use dates back to the Minoan period, when the inhabitants of Kythera used it to access a sanctuary. Head towards Aghios Georgios and let yourself be carried away. The arrival at the village church, with its 7th century Byzantine mosaic floor, is already worth the walk. The view of the island and especially of the eastern coast of Kythera is breathtaking