Municipality of Paxon

To the south of Corfu lie the islands of Paxos and Antipaxos, collectively the Municipality of Paxon.

Paxos is the smallest of the six main Ionian islands. When you step ashore at Gaios, the island's little port, you'll find an exquisite miniature world just waiting to be discovered. One of the attractions of this island is its size; it is so tiny (10 km. long and 4 km. wide) that you can easily walk from one side to the other. At the same time, it is thick with grapevines and olive trees that the whole place is like one big garden. Along its eastern coast, just a stone's throw away, are the smaller islets of Panagia, Agios Nikolaos, Mongonissi and Kaltsonissi.

During your stay on Paxos, you will find beaches with translucent waters, perfect for swimming, snorkelling and fishing.

On the east side of the island sits Gaios, its capital and biggest village. Its charming 19th century houses, threaded by narrow lanes, lie at the end of a closed "fjord", surrounded by trees and shrubs. At the entrance to this picturesque harbour you can make out the islets of Panagia and Agios Nikolaos with its Venet an castle and windmill.

If you should happen to be in Paxos on the 15th of August, you'll want to follow the faithful who gather at the Monastery of Panagia (Moni Panagias). The festivities last all day and all night, winding up in Gaios with dancing in the main square.

Pleasant excursions may be made to Panagia, Agios Nikolaos, Mongonissi and Kaltsionissi. From Paxos it is also possible to visit Parga on mainland Greece, a small town with a Venetian fortress and a wonderful beach, and Anti-paxos, a tiny island 3 nautical miles (30 minutes away) from Gaios.

About 120 people live on AntiPaxos. Its slopes are practically all covered with grapevines and its beaches are superb. Totally unspoilt, quiet AntiPaxos serves as a refuge for those seeking solitude, simplicity and serenity.