Is Chlomos a good place for a beach holiday?
Chlomos itself is a traditional hilltop village, not directly on the beach. However, it's very close to several popular beaches on both the east and west coasts of Corfu, making it a good base if you prefer a quieter, more authentic village atmosphere with easy access to beach activities. You'll need to travel a short distance to reach the beaches.
What are the beaches near Chlomos like? Are they sandy or pebbly?
The beaches near Chlomos offer variety. For example, Issos Beach and Marathias Beach on the west coast are known for their long, sandy expanses. Moraitika Beach on the east coast has small stones on the shore but clean sand in the water. Boukari Beach, closer to Chlomos on the east coast, is smaller and more pebbly. Halikounas, near Lake Korission, is also a long sandy beach.
How far is Chlomos from the nearest beaches and how do I get there?
Chlomos is located inland on a hill. The nearest beaches are a few kilometers away. For instance, Boukari Beach is about 2.3 km away. Messonghi and Moraitika beaches are about 4-5 km away. Issos Beach is approximately 3.5km from Chlomos center, while Marathias is about 5.2km. To reach these beaches, you'll typically need a car or scooter, as public transport directly from Chlomos to all beaches might be limited. Some beaches like Psaras can be reached on foot from nearby villages like Messonghi, which is about 1km away.
Are the beaches near Chlomos suitable for families with children?
Yes, several beaches near Chlomos are family-friendly. Messonghi Beach is particularly popular with families due to its gentle slope into the sea, making it safe for children. Issos Beach, with its soft sand, is also ideal for families and offers facilities like a lifeguard tower. Moraitika Beach has shallow waters, suitable for younger children.
Can I find accommodation with sea views or beach access if I stay in/near Chlomos?
While Chlomos village itself is on a hill, offering panoramic sea views from many points, direct beach access from accommodations within the historic village isn't typical. However, there are villas and holiday homes in and around Chlomos that boast sea views. For direct beach access, you would generally look at properties in the nearby coastal villages like Messonghi, Boukari, or near Issos beach, where various villas, apartments, and hotels are situated closer to the sea.
Can you swim at the beaches near Chlomos and what is the water like?
Yes, you can swim at the beaches near Chlomos. The water is generally described as clear and clean. Beaches like Halikounas and Issos are known for their crystal-clear waters. Moraitika Beach also boasts clean sand in the water. The water temperature is ideal for swimming during the summer months (June to September). Some beaches like Psaras have very clear and relatively calm waters, perfect for swimming.
What's the best time of year to visit Chlomos for a beach holiday?
The best time for a beach holiday near Chlomos is during the summer months, from June to September. During this period, the weather is warm and sunny, ideal for swimming and enjoying outdoor beach activities. The sea temperature is also most pleasant for swimming.
Are there quiet, less crowded beaches near Chlomos?
Yes, while some nearby beaches are popular, you can find quieter spots. Halikounas Beach, next to Lake Korission, is often described as tranquil, especially after 5 PM. Gardenos Beach is a secluded sandy beach. Psaras Beach is a smaller, lesser-known beach that doesn't get too crowded. Kodrakas beach, accessible by kayak or boat, is a pebbly beach under a forest, offering a more secluded experience.
What facilities are available at the beaches near Chlomos (sunbeds, tavernas, watersports)?
Facilities vary by beach. Many popular beaches like Messonghi, Moraitika, and Issos offer sunbeds and umbrellas for rent, beach bars, and tavernas. Issos Beach has a watersports center where you can try windsurfing and kitesurfing. Psaras Beach has some facilities including sunbeds, umbrellas, and a beach taverna. Quieter beaches like Halikounas or Gardenos may have fewer organized facilities, offering a more natural experience, though Gardenos has a couple of tavernas.
Is it better to stay in Chlomos village or closer to the beaches like Messonghi for a beach holiday?
This depends on your preferences. Staying in Chlomos offers an authentic village experience with stunning views, tranquility, and traditional architecture, but requires travel to the beaches. Staying in a coastal village like Messonghi provides direct beach access and more tourist amenities, but can be busier. Messonghi is a small fishing village that has retained charm despite tourism, with organized beaches and various accommodation options.
Are there any naturist beaches near Chlomos?
Issos Beach, which is relatively close to Chlomos, has a designated area for naturists.
What is Issos beach near Chlomos like? I hear it's next to Lake Korission.
Issos Beach is a long, sandy beach known for its natural beauty, clear waters, and distinctive sand dunes. It is located near Chlomos on the west coast and borders the protected Natura area of Lake Korission. This proximity to the lake and its cedar forest gives it a unique, unspoiled character. It offers tourist facilities, a lifeguard tower, and a watersports center, and is considered family-friendly. Part of the beach is also designated for naturists.
Are there any unique local quirks or things to know about the beaches or beach culture around Chlomos?
Chlomos itself is a historic village dubbed the "Balcony of Corfu" for its views, and its charm lies in its traditional Venetian architecture and narrow streets, rather than a direct beach culture. The nearby beaches are part of the broader Corfiot beach scene. A unique aspect is the proximity of some beaches like Halikounas and Issos to Lake Korission, a protected wetland with diverse flora and fauna, including flamingos at certain times of the year. This offers a different kind of natural beauty alongside the beach experience. Some beaches like Gardenos and Arkoudilas are nesting grounds for Caretta Caretta turtles.
Is Chlomos and its nearby beaches better for a quiet, relaxing holiday or a lively party scene?
Chlomos village itself is known for its tranquility and traditional atmosphere, making it ideal for a quiet, relaxing holiday. The nearby beaches also tend to lean towards a more relaxed vibe rather than a lively party scene, especially compared to resorts like Kavos further south. While some beach bars exist in places like Messonghi, the overall atmosphere is more family-friendly and laid-back.
