Thinking of booking a trip to Arillas on Corfu and wondering what it’s like? Here’s what to expect from this scenic beach resort.
Where is it?
Arillas is on Corfu’s north-west coast, in between Agios Georgios NW and San Stefanos.
What’s the vibe like?
Of all the resorts in Corfu’s north-west, Arillas has the most upmarket feel (though it’s not in the same league as the posh northeast) and has slight boho leanings.
It’s the home of holistic travel agency Green Corfu. There are a few boutiques selling attractive kaftans and wraps, the Malibu cocktail bar is all buddhas and exotic greenery, and there’s yoga if you look for it.
Keep an eye out for the vegan-friendly cafe, the fusion restaurants, the meditation centre, the microbrewery, and the recycling centre.
You’ll find all the standards too, of course – traditional tavernas, gyros, boat trips, pool bars.
There are many cafes and bars along the beach and it has a bit more of a buzz than its neighbouring resorts (though it’s still not party central). Arillas does cater to the package tourism crowd – mainly Brits – but it also attracts plenty of independent bookers, loyal returners, and a few expats who have chosen to settle in the area.
The bus to Arillas also stops at the beautiful hilltop village of Afionas, and you can find boat trips along the coast, so if you intend on spending a lot of time exploring the wider area then it makes a good base.
I personally felt, of all the places I visited on the NW coast, that Arillas was the place I wanted to slow down and stay longer. Maybe because it’s a little bit bougie but still has plenty of traditional Greek business, and the nature is fantastic – there are some stunning places to visit in the wider area. That said, the range of accommodation is not as good as at neighbouring San Stefanos.
What’s the beach like?
The beach has soft golden sand and shallow seas, however it is narrow compared to some of the other sandy beaches in the area, and a road runs right behind it. In some places the sand is a clay consistency so not the best for visibility.
It’s west-facing so has excellent sunsets over the uninhabited Gravia islands and the more distant Diapontia islands.
Arillas beach is long, straight, and relatively narrow – particularly in the organised areas right in front of the resort.
But Arillas’ USP is the large section of unorganised sand that sits underneath the steep cliffs on its northern end. This scenic and sheltered spot has an incredible natural feel and is unsurprisingly popular with the clothing-optional crowd as well as people walking in the hills behind.
The main part of the beach is family-friendly and relaxed. The main road runs alongside, separating the sand from the cafes and restaurants and providing plenty of parking.
Activities and amenities
Wind-powered watersports are available, but for jetskiis you’ll have to visit nearby Agios Georgios. Boat rental is available and there’s a concrete jetty for smaller boats.
There are several boat trips on offer to beaches in the wider area, including the popular Porto Timoni. This is the only way to see Porto Timoni without the hike. Both private and group boat trips are available.
Walking is a popular pasttime. To the north are dirt tracks that take you up the cliffs to Cape Kefali where you’ll find a lighthouse and a chapel, and you can walk down the other side to San Stefanos.
The Arillas Trail is a recent addition.
To the south, you can walk up to Afionas and on to Porto Timoni.
In the autumn, Arillas hosts the Corfu Beer Festival as well as a wine festival.
There are several minimarkets with a good range of food, as well as a few bakeries and the microbrewery for local beer. Arillas also has a pharmacy and a doctor.
Transport and accessibility
From the airport:
Public transport:
Arillas is served by Corfu’s Green Bus system. There are daily buses from the KTEL bus station just outside Corfu Town. Buses are less frequent on Saturdays and don’t always run on Sundays.
Sometimes during peak summer season there are extra bus routes available linking popular resorts but check before you go as these aren’t always operating.
For more information, read: How to Get Around Corfu By Bus
Accessibility:
Most of the businesses are located by the beach but Arillas is located in a flat fertile valley and accommodation extends quite far back with plenty of space for villas, self-catered options, and car rental.
The road runs the length of the organised section of the beach but not the quieter parts at either end. Arillas is flat and relatively compact with plenty of parking for cars and bikes along the main road. There are a few steps down to the beach from the main road.
There is no Seatrac.
Prices
Prices in Arillas are average for Corfu, and it has a reasonable range of options. There’s nothing high-end in Arillas but you will find cheaper meals at Greek tavernas and cafes as well as slightly more expensive options at specialist restaurants.
Where to stay
Despite the hipster appeal of some of the businesses here, the accommodation is still very traditional, with a mix of villas up in the hills and traditional family-run units in the main part of the village such as Rainbow and Mathraki. Hotel Horizon and Hotel Marina are directly on the beach but decor is looking a little dated.
The plushest rooms in town are at Emar Corfu and Noa Suites.
There are also holiday homes like Villa Panorama and Villa Dafne to be found further up in the hills behind the village.
Read more:
Where to Stay on Corfu: Ultimate Beach Resort Guide
A Quick Guide to North West Corfu
Visiting the Beautiful Village of Afionas
10 Most Beautiful Beaches on Corfu
Corfu’s Luxury Resorts – Where to Stay Right on the Beach
All images © The Mediterranean Traveller