Angelokastro

Angelokastro occupies the summit of a precipitous rock some 305 metres above the sea, with cliffs on three sides and a single approach, which made it the strongest point on Corfu and a refuge for the island's population in times of danger; it was never taken by assault. The fortress dates from the thirteenth century in its present form, and the surviving remains include the outer gate, cisterns, the rock-cut church of the Archangel Michael, a chapel of Agia Kyriaki with faint frescoes, and burial niches cut into the stone. From the top the view runs the length of the west coast, over Paleokastritsa's headlands and out to the open Ionian. The path up from the parking area is stepped, steep and about ten minutes long.

What you'll find

• The summit fortress - walls and gate on a near-vertical rock.
• The rock-cut church - the chapel of the Archangel Michael on the peak.
• The cisterns and niches - water stores and graves cut into the stone.
• The coastal panorama - the whole northwest coast from the ramparts.

When to go

Spring and autumn for the climb in comfort; the rock is fully exposed to sun. Late afternoon gives the best light down the coast. Opening hours are limited and it closes on some days.

Things to know

The approach is a steep stepped path with no shade, and the summit is uneven with unfenced edges in places. Facilities amount to a ticket booth. The visit is short but the view justifies the climb.

Nearby

Paleokastritsa lies below; Krini and Lakones villages are on the ridge road.