Corfu stands among the revered Greek islands, captivating travellers worldwide. Its stunning coastline boasts some of Greece’s most exquisite beaches, while the historic town exudes grandeur with its Venetian and British architectural treasures, transporting us to bygone eras. Noteworthy buildings adorned with gardens, such as the Achilleion and Mon Repos, further enhance Corfu’s allure.
The sheer abundance and diversity of Corfu’s natural beauty are such that even frequent visitors are likely to have overlooked some hidden corners. This piece aims to shed light on one such lesser-known gem.
Nymphes village graces the island’s northern part, perched on a hillside approximately 200 meters above sea level. Nature has lavished this place with verdant greenery, dominated by cypresses, plane trees, oaks, and cascading streams that evoke the majesty of Epirus’s mountains rather than a typical Greek island. Inhabited since ancient times, the area’s allure lies in its strong water element, which has always attracted those drawn to cultivating the land. It is no wonder that the village takes its name from this enchanting landscape, as only nymphs, the divine female figures of ancient Greek mythology who dwelled in untamed nature, could inhabit such a place.
The Nymphon Waterfalls
The highlight of Nymphes awaits just beyond the village, none other than the captivating waterfalls. These remarkable cascades, the most impressive in Corfu, plunge forcefully from a height of 15 meters into a vibrant green gorge. Spring is undoubtedly the prime season to experience these waterfalls in all their glory. While Corfu sees a fair amount of rain by Greek standards, even during summer, you can witness a bountiful flow of water here. Standing amidst this natural wonder, you’ll be serenaded by nature’s symphony and enveloped in its fragrant embrace, gaining insight into why ancient Greeks envisioned nymphs carrying out their bathing rituals in this very place. Additionally, smaller waterfalls can be found in the surrounding area.
Nymphes village offers an idyllic setting to enjoy a meal or savour a cup of coffee at the central square, cocooned by rich greenery that provides refreshing shade, even during scorching summer days. And here’s one last enticement: even if kumquat liqueur fails to catch your eye elsewhere, it becomes almost obligatory to have a little tipple here. This is because around Nymphes, there are vast groves of this originally Chinese citrus fruit, which has now become a mainstay of Corfu since the 19th century.
How to Reach the Nymphon Waterfalls
Situated approximately 35 kilometers away from the city of Corfu, the waterfalls can be reached within a 55-minute car ride. If you’re coming from the tourist village of Paleokastritsa, expect a journey of 22 kilometers, taking around 40 minutes by car. The waterfalls lie about 2 kilometers from the village of Nymphes. To reach this natural marvel, traverse through the village, pass by the football field, and follow a dirt road for 1.5 kilometers, leading you to the enchanting waterfalls.
Read also:
Corfu’s Finest Northern and Western Beaches
Corfu Insights: Explore this Ionian Island with Local Experts
Discover the Best Beaches of Corfu: South & East
