Sinarades – A Non-Touristy Village
If you’re looking to experience authentic Corfu away from the crowds, Sinarades is a charming village that feels untouched by time.
Sinarades is a small village rarely included in typical tourist routes. If you’d prefer not to travel far from Corfu Town, this is a perfect choice—located just 14 km from the city center, yet offering the feeling of stepping into a distant past.
The area has been inhabited for over a thousand years, dating back to Byzantine times. The first settlers were likely from southern Italy, and the village itself takes its name from the Byzantine noble family Sinares.
At one point, the village was abandoned as residents moved toward the city, but it was revived in the 17th century when refugees from Crete settled here.
Sinarades is one of Corfu’s traditional mountain villages that has beautifully preserved its architectural heritage. As you walk through its narrow streets, you’ll notice stone houses with ochre Byzantine-style roof tiles, small doors decorated with carved marble details, and characteristic stone staircases leading up to verandas—locally known as “bonjo.” Arched upper floors and the tightly built houses, standing almost wall-to-wall, give the village its distinctive charm.
The village is home to 12 churches. Among them, it’s worth visiting Agios Nikolaos and Agios Spyridon, where you can see impressive church organs brought from Italy.
Make sure to stop by the local folklore museum, housed in a traditional village home. Inside, you’ll discover the furnishings of an 18th-century household. Just take care when climbing the stairs—they are original and have remained unchanged for centuries.
Entrance fee: €3
Opening hours: until 14:00
http://laografikomouseiosinaradon.blogspot.com/p/blog-page_17.html
At the entrance of the village, you’ll pass the striking Vasilakis Mansion, built of orange brick. According to local legend, the Vasilakis family—once considered the poorest in the village—became wealthy after a woman found a box full of money while washing clothes in a nearby stream.
The mansion, built in the 1940s, is now one of the most impressive buildings in the area. It’s also said that Mr. Vasilakis himself spread stories that the house was haunted by ghosts and the spirit Moras, to keep unwanted visitors away…
About one kilometer from the village center, you’ll find Aerostat, a large observation deck offering beautiful views over the resort of Agios Gordios.
On your way there, you can stop at the Grammenos Winery, which plans to open to visitors after Easter.
Wine tastings are available, but it’s best to book in advance:
https://grammenosfamily-wines.com/
For a meal, the Archontariki Tavern is a great choice, open daily from 11:00. It serves delicious, traditional dishes in a relaxed setting: Have a look here
If you’re in the mood for a lighter stop, head to the traditional café-shop Klimataria. It’s a true local experience—part shop, part café—where you can enjoy coffee, wine, ouzo, tsipouro, and simple meze alongside the locals, just like in the old days.
You can explore more photos of Sinarades here: https://www.facebook.com/Sinarades-Village-Corfu-111265060579883/
And if you continue a few more kilometers, don’t miss the chance to watch the sunset in Pelekas—once known as the “seat of the Kaiser”—for a truly memorable end to your day.