The Old Perithia, as the name translates from Greek, was built in the mountains, hidden from the Pirates roaming the seas and a safe enough distance from the swampy mosquito-infested Antinioti Lagoon. In times gone by, spending the day on a beach was not as attractive as finding the right terrain and climate for farming, cattle raising and bees. Though today much of this activity has died out, you still find excellent home-made honey and bees-wax in Paleo Perithia, as well as restaurants at the village entrance and square, serving local produce.
The rise of tourism and modernity in Corfu led to the gradual abandonment of mountain village life, and as a consequence in Paleo Perithia, the beautiful old stone houses, roads and multitude of churches, fell into decay. Nonetheless, the Old School with its grandiose arched entrance stands as proof of its former glory, as are a number of other buildings currently being restored. Walking through its windy and shaded narrow streets can only be described as… a special treat!
On your way up/down from Paleo Perithia, make sure to stop at the Perithia Ice-Cream parlour on the main road. It is a favourite stop for locals, serving a range of interesting flavours, in addition to the traditional yoghurt ice-cream with honey and walnuts. It is a Corfu product not to miss!
You may visit Paleo Perithia by motorbike/car, within an organised jeep-tour, or a hike/cylce through mountain trails. You can combine with a visit to Mount Pantokrator or a day on St. Spyridon beach.
