Corfu’s Ghost Village: Ruined Stone Mansions and Timeless Echoes
By Giovanni Prete | Greek Reporter
December 9, 2025
“Returning to life since 2010…” with the passion of an Anglo-Dutch couple who made a major restoration and gently began to bring the village back to life.
https://greekreporter.com/2025/12/09/old-peritheia-corfu-ghost-village/
Old Perithia from the air… gently coming back to life since 2010… see the restorations and overview in the video above. Here are some aerial shots of the paths around the village. [courtesy & copyright, Corfu Perspectives.] ‘Don’t forget to download our Map & Self-Guided walking Tour of the village, for personal use only. [Courtesy & copyright MarkHendriksenPublishing.]
Oct 2025. Discover Corfu takes you through the attractions, things to do and how to get there for Old Perithia in their article below:
Original Article July 2025: Information source on Old Perithia History: Old Perithia Guide, Map & History. Mark Hendriksen Publishing. [www.old-perithia.com] The Merchant’s House were three ruins originally restored in 2011 and acting as the catalyst for the revival of the village as of today. It was subsequently purchased in 2021, but remains exactly as it was left, after the original restoration and interior designs, with Venetian architecture, sumptuous interiors and nods to the local history, trades and crafts. The original owners achieved three TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards, for the b&b, and also two for the village of Old Perithia, the second in 2025.
From the article Printed in Atlantic Magazine.
The Writer’s Way
Chasing le Carré in Corfu
‘If you’re trying to find someone who doesn’t want to be found, you don’t go to the obvious places.’
By Honor Jones
Photographs by Alice Zoo
Section pull.
“At last, we arrive in the village of Old Perithia. If only Magnus had come this way, I keep thinking, Axel never would have found him.
Corfu’s wealth used to be concentrated inland, because of the oaks and olive groves, and because it was safer from pirates there. According to the information sheet I find in my room that night, if you owned land near the water, you’d give it to your daughter, not your son. Old Perithia is a beautiful ghost town. It dates to 1357, and at times, as many as 1,200 people would have lived here. Now there are just a few tavernas, this bed and breakfast, meadows of blossoming wildflowers, and the ruins. The town was abandoned because of the tourists, who sucked all of the wealth and workers from the interior toward the coasts. But now so many tourists gather on the coasts that some tourists, wanting to get away from all the other tourists, come out here. They’re drawn by the promise that they’ll find something truer and more authentic here. To paraphrase Durrell: the real Corfu, if I may call it that.”
https://www.theatlantic.com
Update 16 September 2025 – Following on from our previous mention in June about, ‘The Durrells – The Story of a Family’ by Richard Bradford’ The Irish Times adds an article by Richard Pine, a resident journalist and writer on the island: ‘Is this Greek island as idyllic as Gerald Durrell portrayed? Not everyone thinks so.’
Google Old Perithia [TripAdvisors Travellers Award Winner 2025 & 2021] and you’ll see what people are saying about the village and why we’ve had over 25,000 customer interactions and 95% 4 & 5 star reviews… Here’s some examples (reviewer initials added for privacy) August ’25; “Not many places in Greece that you can see something like this. Very unique.” OK – “Anyone who doesn’t visit Old Perithia has seen 50% of Corfu.” SP – “The place is really calming. Clean air and oxygen.” AP – “I recommend, it’s an interesting and different place.” GL – “A beautiful little village, a journey thrugh time. You can leave from here to reach Mount Pantokrator via the hiking trail.” DLM – “The atmosphere of this ‘abandoned’ village is wonderful. It’s worth wandering around the nooks and crannies. There are several interesting restaurants.” MU – “One of my favourite places in Corfu, few people, beautiful landscape, nice taverns in the local spirit for refreshments, a place where you can feel history at every step… ” ZG For further information on how the village survived and came back to life back in 2010 when Greecewas in financial crisis, read the article below, How an Ancient village captured its magical past.
Old `Perithia, Corfu, Greece: How an Ancient village captured its magical past. Press Release from June 29, 2021: As Corfu and the other Greek islands anticipated being added to the UK’s green list for travel on July 15 2021, there is a story of hope. It began 12 years ago with a publisher, a voiceover artist, three ruined houses and a leap of faith. “In a period and place where and when the world deteriorates and disappoints, you have gone in the opposite direction and recreated a scene of beauty.”
August 2025. Events on Corfu and where to get all you need to know. Introducing CORFUEVENTS365 simply click the following link to the website: https://corfuevents365.com
KAYAK TRAVEL: Top 5 reasons to visit Corfu… 12 August 2025
Paleá Períthia: This abandoned village from the Byzantine era with its empty houses transports you back to the simple life of long ago.
https://www.kayak.de/Korfu.42547.guide#what-to-do
Press Release 23rd July 2025 from old-pertihia.com: We are delighted to announce that for the second time, Old Perithia has been voted for the TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Award 2021 & 2025 – Putting it in the top 10% of visitor attractions worldwide.
Read the Google Old Perithia page for the latest visitor reviews & photos
Chasing le Carré in Corfu The Atlantic July 22, 2025, | If you’re trying to find someone who doesn’t want to be found, you don’t go to the obvious places.By Honor Jones with Photographs by Alice Zoo… “At last, we arrive in the village of Old Perithia. If only Magnus had come this way, I keep thinking, Axel never would have found him.
“Corfu’s wealth used to be concentrated inland, because of the oaks and olive groves, and because it was safer from pirates there. According to the *information sheet I find in my room that night [additional note form old-perithia.com: *information written by Mark and Saskia, an Anglo-Dutch couple, Mark wrote ‘*The Guide to Old Perithia’, who both restored three ruins to create the island’s first mountain village b&b as mentoned here,] if you owned land near the water, you’d give it to your daughter, not your son. Old Perithia is a beautiful ghost town. It dates to 1357, and at times, as many as 1,200 people would have lived here. Now there are just a few tavernas, this bed and breakfast, meadows of blossoming wildflowers, and the ruins. The town was abandoned because of the tourists, who sucked all of the wealth and workers from the interior toward the coasts. But now so many tourists gather on the coasts that some tourists, wanting to get away from all the other tourists, come out here. They’re drawn by the promise that they’ll find something truer and more authentic here. To paraphrase Durrell: the real Corfu, if I may call it that.”
Travellers Beware – Corfu’s Hidden Charge for Tourists: What You Need to Know Before You Travel+:
Other Travel Tips for Corfu: Although the roaming fees could be a nuisance, Corfu is still a popular destination for UK tourists, who visit for its sandy beaches, cultural heritage, and the countryside. And you will not want to miss Old Perithia, the island’s most traditional village, and its supernal beaches at Paleokastritsa. Travel and Tour World.
Old Perithia: The Ghost-Village in Corfu is Reborn: In 2009, Mark from London and Saskia from the Netherlands felt a profound connection to Perithia. Enchanted by its historical charm, they envisioned a rebirth beyond the ruins. With unwavering passion, they restored a weathered mansion, breathing life into its timeworn walls and creating a small hotel. Their endeavor sparked a revival. Descendants of Perithia’s former residents joined the restoration effort, awakening old houses and revealing unique stories. No longer a ghost village, Perithia began to regain its vibrancy. Read the whole story as told by ‘AtCorfu’ here.
Gastronomos Feature on the Old Perithia: a 162-year-old family tavern in Corfu Just for the fact that it has been in operation since 1863 in the hands of the same family, it is worth going to this monument-tavern on the small square of Old Perithia, a village in the northeast of the island with an eerie beauty. 02.07.2025 [Greek language] article by Βιβή Κωνσταντινίδου
THE GLOSS 25 June 2025 | O Foros, Paleo Perithia, Corfu, Greece. Tucked away in the sleepy village of Old Perithia – one of Corfu’s oldest, most picture-perfect hamlets… https://thegloss.ie/5-restaurants-worth-flying-to-in-europe/
The Telegraph Travel 23 June 2025… It’s still possible to find a Corfu unspoilt by mass tourism – here’s how:
A century after Gerald Durrell’s birth, I went in search of the island’s olive groves, paint-peeling villas, fireflies and figs, by Paul Bloomfield.
“Continuing through magical goblin woodland and the flower-spangled karst plateau, we tackled the island’s loftiest peak, 906 metre Pantokrator – its monastery now overshadowed by an unsightly forest of antennae – then descended its northern slopes to Palea (Old) Perithia.
At its zenith, Corfu’s oldest continuously inhabited village, established in the 14th century, was a prosperous settlement of some 130 houses served by no fewer than eight churches. In decline from the 1960s, today there’s again something of buzz – and not just from bees producing its renowned honey.
Under the leafy pergola of Foros, one of several tavernas opened in historic houses, we glugged icy ginger beer and wiped plates clean of tzatziki and spinach tsigareli with garlicky crusts.
Old Perithia’s renaissance reflects hopes that alternative tourism, including hiking, can help revive dwindling settlements away from the beaches – and yield glimpses of lost lifestyles and landscapes Gerry loved.” [part text from the full article, available here.]
Also, read about the real story behind the Durrell’s in the article below: ‘The Durrells – The Story of a Family’ by Richard Bradford.’
A Greek Drama for Our House Hunters – and Then a Dream Home. A Place in the Sun 8th July 2025
“It was the week of the Greek wildfires during a major heatwave, and they’d arranged to view a two-bedroom, two-bathroom house in Anapaftiria, just a five-minute drive from Old Perithia. The previous buyer had pulled out due to the wildfires.”
[Back in 2011 Wildfires in Old Perithia took place just after the first ever mountain village B&B restoration (The Merchant’s House, created by an Anglo-Dutch couple) had taken place, But brave guests stayed and the fire service achieved miracles, In spite of much of the surroundings being grey and scorched, however, the season was shortened and the ‘Official’ opening shifted to 2011, fortunately with a tv appearance on channel 4.
As the holiday season gets underway, an article from the Daily Express Dec 2024 which escaped our notice, read now. EXCLUSIVE: Corfu’s oldest village, nestled among the mountains, speaks of a time long forgotten on one of Greece’s most popular tourist islands. “Since 2010, it has been lovingly and gently coming back to life, and it continues to be loved by locals and tourists – including me”. says Emily Wright: https://www.express.co.uk/travel/articles/1985354/greece-old-towns-corfu-dark-tourism
Possibly not a book for Durrell fans. ‘The Durrells – The Story of a Family’ by Richard Bradford’ is a fascinating true* and revealing book (*with Bloomsbury as the publishers) about the reality behind the books, series’, the falsehoods and fabrication. ‘My Family and other Lies’, published June 2025 : https://www.dailymail.co.uk/home/books/article-14783659/The-Durrells-Richard-Bradford-book-review.html
Brought back to life since 2011, Old Perithia – A history, how it is today, and preparation for the future.
Discover Corfu’s olive oil renaissance | Olive oil tourism is taking off in Greece. Here’s where to taste it. By Julia Eskins May 16, 2025 National Geographic Travel
Kerkyra “Lianolia was an unknown variety until 2010 or, at best, well-known for being the worst in quality EVOO in the world,” says Spyros Dafnis, co-founder of The Governor, one of Corfu’s leading producers. Through innovative processing methods, they earned a world record in 2016 for producing olive oil with the highest concentration of oleocanthal compounds, known for their anti-inflammatory properties. They have since collaborated with U.S. universities on various health studies.
Oleotourism is also central to their mission. Visitors can tour their mill in the village of Agios Matthaios, join guided tastings, and explore ancient olive groves—including their 1,500-year-old tree called “Mitera” (Greek for mother). “These trees are a living symbol,” says Dafnis. “Every harvest, we remember what our grandparents used to say: We are like trees. To grow and thrive, we need strong roots.” Full article below:
https://www.nationalgeographic.com/travel/article/where-to-taste-olive-oli-in-greece
{We recommend a visit when you’re in Corfu or staying in Old Perithia. http://www.old-perithia.com]
Saving Corfu’s Architecture: What Can Still Be Done An important question, not just for Corfu town, but also those architectural gems such as Old Perithia and other area where history is in danger of being lost forever…
May 2025 #CorfuPress
https://www.corfupress.com/2025/various/και-αυτα/saving-corfus-architecture-what-can-still-be-done/
12 great things to see and do in Corfu, Kerry Walker | Lonely Planet | 12th May 2025
6. Get a taste of Corfu past in Old Perithia [www.old-perithia.com]
Halfway up the slopes of the island’s highest peak, 906m Mt Pantokrator, Old Perithia long succumbed to the ravages of time and the elements, its weathered stone houses crumbling to dust. Inhabited since the 14th century, Old Perithia was once a hideaway from pirate attacks – villagers could see the sea but couldn’t be seen. When the last residents abandoned the Venetian village in the 1960s, it was billed Corfu’s “ghost town.” But no more.
Old Perithia has recently been reborn as a heritage village and its houses are slowly being lovingly restored using traditional methods, its streets repaved in stone. Life plays out slowly here, with visits to the local beehives (stop to buy a pot of Vasilis’ excellent honey) and drawn-out lunches at the vine-draped taverna on the square, where you can dig into Corfiot flavors like sofrito (garlicky beef stew laced with white wine). Full article click here. Before you Go: The Official Guide to Old Perithia is available on Etsy.
Free Map & Self-Guided Walking Tour: Visiting Old Perithia and want a self-guided walking tour of the village? The publisher of ‘The Official Guide to Old Perithia, a History, Map & self-Guided Walking Tour‘ is kindly now giving you the Map and walking Guide below for Free, simply send your name and email address by clicking here to receive your free map. [Important Notice: copyright protected, for personal use only, not for reproduction or other use without the express permission of the publisher, hendriksenmark1@gmail.com.]
Please note: The updates for 2025 are as follows; Capricorn Taverna is now Evdokia, There is a honey shop at what was Ognistra Taverna as you enter the village and another in the village ‘square’. A coffee shop can now also be found adjacent to the ‘Old Bakery’ on the path to the left of Skordilis Mansions. You can also now access more paths around the village and see further restorations. Go explore and use the map to keep you on track, but also to enable you to see more of the village. Old Perithia has been gently coming back to life since 2011, when an Anglo-Dutch couple restored three ruins and helped clean up and bring more attention, press and pr to help it’s ongoing survival and recovery.
Looking forward to visiting the V Museum in Corfu in May 2025… Do go see if you’re visiting the island! Click below to access the website, buy tickets, contact etc.:
Old Perithia sees some changes ahead of the upcoming season 2025. For those of you familiar with the overview of the village, which has been coming back to life since 2010, here’s an update on the latest news. On the way up to Old Perithia is a shop called BeeHappy which has now taken over the first taverna {Ognistra} and is now a shop and cafe, giving the village two shops and three locations where you can buy local honey, the second off the square and third being the beehives on the far side of the village.. This means there are now 4 [not 5] tavernas, Gabriel’s Steps to the rear of the B&B and then 3 in the ‘square’, Foros [25yrs old this year], The Old Perithia and Evdokia.
We are awaiting updates on the exciting restoration of 4 houses that started last year, but, it seems something is holding up progress, hopefully not any of the few locals who have businesses there, as village politics can so easily spoil so much for so many. Anyway, more news when we hear the outcome. Having had the care and investment of the previous owners of the b&b in bringing the village back to life, and thus supporting local business, through some difficult times, and helping the village to grow in both popularity and buildings restored, from 15% in 2010 to approx. 35%+ today + have an enormous amount of media and publicity to help it succeed and survive for future generations – this should not be in vain – the community needs to work together, in harmony, invest, care, get creative and give back to the village, which over the past years has helped ensure their own success.
A unique meeting full of fun, rhythm, dance and singing!!! In Palaia Perithia in a unique landscape in spring, when everything is wonderful! We are waiting for you all to party with the music band “ANTETI” Saturday 12/4/2025 start time 12 p.m
The Independent Travel 26 March 2025
Great to see the restoration and interiors of the B&B [dating back to the 1300s], looking the same as they have been since 2011 when an Anglo-Dutch couple took three ruins and returned them to their original condition, after 65 years of being abandoned. From that passion and investment, Old Perithia still continues its journey back to life. Since 2021, the new owners have retained the original features, interiors and its absolute charm. 👏🏼
“Located in Old Perithia, an abandoned village being brought back to life, The Merchant’s House is comprised of three houses that were built in the 1800s. They *have now* been transformed into six individually decorated suites, whose names reflect the trades in which former occupants engaged. Derelict since the 1960s, Old Perithia retains its Venetian architecture…”
https://www.independent.co.uk/travel/europe/greece/best-corfu-hotels-b2688267.html
Corfu Garden Festival 2025 | 26th April to 4th May 2025:
Corfu has been called ‘The Garden of the Gods”. It is also known as ‘The Garden Isle’ and has an international reputation as one of the most beautiful Greek islands and as a destination for those who love to experience gardens. The Corfu Garden Festival is a celebration of some of these gardens, communities and individuals that help to keep this island a charming place. During the Festival many of the island’s gardens will be opening for one day so you can experience this beauty yourself.
https://www.corfugardenfestival.com
Ruined Stone Mansions and Timeless Echoes | Greek Reporter: With houses from the 14th century, Old Peritheia is Corfu’s most ancient village. Strategically built to be safe from pirate attacks, it’s near the top of the island’s highest peak, Mount Pantokrator. The village is surrounded by dense forest and has views of the Ionian Sea. For decades, it was deserted until it was completely abandoned in the 1960s, when tourism hit the island. Since 2010, the village has begun coming alive once again, as it continues to be loved by locals and tourists. https://greekreporter.com/2024/12/05/old-peritheia-corfu-ghost-village/
The Traveler:
Old Perithia, The Oldest Village on the Island of Corfu. One of the most unique and fascinating places that can be visited in Corfu is the island’s oldest village – Old Perithia, which until recently was also described as a ghost village. by Matthew Bartels The Traveler | Adventures in the Spotlight
… “The village was thus abandoned, and many of the houses fell into disrepair. However, starting in 2010, thanks to the initiative of a couple who restored three buildings, Old Perithia began to come back to life.
Around 35% of the houses here are currently restored or in the process of being restored.
Old Perithia has been featured in various press articles, including in world-renowned publications such as National Geographic, in tourist guides, and on websites like TripAdvisor, becoming a magnet for tourists who want to visit a place so deeply marked by time, yet so picturesque and peaceful.” Read the full article here: https://www.thetraveler.org/old-perithia-the-oldest…/
The Times
James Litston [not Liston ;)]
Thursday January 30 2025
25 of Greece’s best secret towns and villages for summer.
Our expert picks out the country’s most beguiling escapes, far from the throngs of Santorini and Mykonos, that are holiday havens untouched by mass tourism
6. Old Perithia, Corfu, Ionian islands
Aerial view of a villa with a pool, patio, and gazebo overlooking the sea.
Old Perithia was built to be hidden from passing pirates
Don’t expect to find touristy attractions in Old Perithia. Founded in the 1300s, it was built on a mountainside so as to be hidden from passing pirates and became the island’s wealthiest village before falling into decline. It was abandoned since the 1960s, and its ruins are gradually being restored [*since 2010.] Admire its Venetian architecture, pausing for lunch in one of the five reinvigorated tavernas. Three miles downhill in Loutses lies the three-bedroom Villa Orizzone Blu, which makes a handy base for exploration of northern Corfu.”
Travellers visiting Europe from 2025 onwards will be required to obtain an approved ETIAS online prior to their departure.
With over 37 million visitors to Europe each year, the introduction of ETIAS is expected to have a significant impact on traveller plans from all over the world.
Which travellers are affected?
All visitors who previously travelled visa-free to Europe, such as visitors from the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and many others, will need an approved ETIAS to enter any ETIAS member country such as France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Greece, along with other ETIAS member countries.
All travellers, regardless of age, will be required to obtain an ETIAS, and the authorization will be valid for 3 years or until the date of passport expiry.
Where can I learn more?
To stay up to date and for further information about the ETIAS program including news, launch updates and travel alerts, please visit
ETIAS News & Information For Visitors Coming To Europe | etias.com
Good Housekeeping > Lifestyle | Travel
Like the Durrells, I fell head over heels for Corfu
By Tracey Davies Published: 17 January 2025
[https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/uk/lifestyle/travel/a63239336/durrells-corfu/]
… “One blisteringly hot afternoon, I drove west of Kassiopi and into the cooler hills to Old Perithia [www.old-perithia.com] Corfu’s oldest village. Once used as a hideout from marauding pirates, this 14th-century hill village on the northern flanks of Mount Pantokrator is reached by narrow switchback road. All but abandoned in the Sixties, when everyone flocked to the coast for work, Old Perithia has since had a new lease of life and now has a handful of traditional tavernas in the tiny shaded village square.”
visit www.old-perithia.com for the history & story of the village’s revival since 2010 + the map, official blog, press & pr.
The Highlights of Old Perithia according to AI in 2025 … AI Overview: Here’s some recent news about Old Perithia, a historic village in Corfu, Greece:
Revival Old Perithia has been reviving since 2010 when a couple bought and restored three properties in the village. The couple also wrote a book about the village and helped bring about further restoration. Today, the village is 35%+ back to its original state, with 12-15% restored or in the process of being restored.
Popularity In 2022, Old Perithia was ranked eighth out of 799 attractions and best places to visit on TripAdvisor. It also gets over 250,000 views per month on Google.
Express Newspaper Article Dec 01 2024:
The pretty but underrated village on popular Greek island with ‘more churches than people’ The Greek island is known for its stunning beaches, beautiful scenery, and relaxing atmosphere. But many who have visited the island might not know about the ghost village of Old Perithia on the northern side of Corfu.
READ MORE The pretty little Greek island just 12 miles from Corfu but without its crowds
Old Perithia Village, Corfu
Old Perithia is a village in northern Corfu, located on the slopes of Mount Pantokrator, 8 km from Kassiopi. Its main feature is its approximately 130 ancient stone houses in the Venetian style, many of which are impressive mansions. The village was abandoned in the mid-20th century due to malaria epidemics and the threat of enemy invasions. By 1940, almost all residents had left Old Perithia, and it turned into a “ghost town.”
Only two people then lived in the village — Briton Mark Hendriksen and his wife Saskia, owners of the hotel complex The Merchant’s House. They completely restored one of the old mansions in the authentic Venetian style of the 17th century. The couple is helping to restore other historic houses in Old Perithia to revive the once abandoned village. A walk along it allows you to plunge into the original Greek atmosphere and architecture of bygone centuries.
The British newspaper The Independent has called Old Perithia “the ultimate destination for an authentic Greek holiday” due to its natural beauty, spectacular sea views, and rich historical heritage. https://realting.com/news/abandoned-houses-in-greece
Routes of Discovery. [Copyright and credit © 2025 Routes Of Discovery. All Rights Reserved] click the link above for full article. updates from original Routes Of Discovery Old Perithia Q&A of 26 answers with suggested variations [2025] below*…
1. How many inhabitants does the village have? 2. What jobs do the residents do? 3. What products are produced in the area? 4.& 5. Is there someone who sells products?
*There are permanent residents/house owners in the village whose properties are either frequently visited or for full time occupation. Taverna owners live nearby and work throughout the year as does the ‘honey business and shop’ and Old Perithia Taverna makes its own local ginger beer. Also, there’s a guesthouse that is rented out in the summer. Three ruined houses at the entrance to the village were restored as a B&B back in 2010 (see below) and the original owners also bought ‘the look-out tower’ and land adjacent to Skordilis Mansions. There investment and passion acted as the catalyst for the village’s revival along with the other help they gave to greatly increase notoriety, attract visitors and encourage investment and further restorations, in turn supporting the success of the tavernas even during the economic problems of that time… There are no longer shepherds in the village.
26. What would you like the foreigner to know about you?
*It is a mountainous settlement at the foot of Mount Pantokrator at an altitude of [actual 906m]. The sea is only visible from specific places that served as observatories [such as ‘The Vigla’, look out tower]. In the settlement, a total of 135 buildings have been recorded [of which a number are in ruins or lost] which include churches, ground floor houses, two-storey houses and 6 mansions. In 1980, Old Peritheia was characterized by ministerial decision as a landscape of natural beauty while in 1996 by decision of the Ministry of Culture it was declared a historic preserved monument. In addition to historical interest, the area has rich vegetation and numerous paths that lead either to more mountainous points or to more lowland ones. In 2010 a major investment was made to restore three houses and create the island’s first b&b to encourage visitors to stay in the mountains. The purchasers also wrote an ‘Official Guide to the History of Old Perithia with a self-guided walking tour’ and cleaned the village and managed the parking, repaired signs and added a Map & Information Welcome Sign. They also did a lot of press and PR for the village, that meant from not appearing on TripAdvisor at all, the village now ranks very highly and during that time won the TripAdvisor Travellers Choice Award. So, it can attract the attention of those who wish to do some hiking or just a walk in nature. Their work and bringing further develpoments has made the village rise from 12-15% restored to over 35%+ to this day and further properties continue to be restored and land has been purchased and is under the care of the new owners. [E&OE]
“Old Perithia” [episode 7] has a short feature, in what is her latest episode of “Design Hopping with Kanika”. Watch the feature here, with Corfu featuring at 7:40 mins in & Old Perithia at 10:30 mins in : 👉 https://youtu.be/8T1HIr4-oNs?si=XV6Czz1s4iSm3hOy
Article in ‘The Express’ 31st Oct 2024:
[Note: Old Perithia, Corfu, the ‘not so underrated’, and 95% as was, island’s best example of a mountain village of Venetian architectural origins. It has been coming back to life since a passion project back in 2010, and continues its revival to this day, with further careful restorations in progress for 2025.] https://lnkd.in/ewZHy44Z
hashtag#oldperithia hashtag#corfu hashtag#historic hashtag#mountain hashtag#village read the full history past to present on old-perithia[.com] The pretty but underrated village on popular Greek island with no tourists express.co.uk
Celebrity Cruises 18 Best Things to Do in Corfu, by Daniel James Clarke Last updated: October 31st, 2024
Lunch in Corfu’s Oldest Village
Old Perithia
Constructed during the 14th century, Old Perithia, or Paleá, is considered Corfu’s oldest village. Set on the dramatic slopes of Mount Pantokrator and fringed by dense vegetation, it’s a time capsule of mainly derelict buildings. It’s also a reminder of how, in bygone times, the safety—and food security—of the mountains took precedence over being located on the coast.
Walking around the many abandoned heritage-protected homes of Old Períthia is one of the most fascinating things to do in Corfu to peek into times of yore. Thanks to some passionate restoration, the settlement is no longer a ghost village, with tavernas set in a handful of old stone buildings, ideal for lunch. Editorial and photo copyright Celebrity Cruises 2024 [The above photo is of ‘The Merchant’s House‘ 3 ruins faithfully restored by an Anglo-Dutch couple back in 2011 to create 6 suites in the island’s 1st boutique b&b in a mountain village, encourage visitors and revival, and to reverse the decline to save the future of the village. It was subsequently sold along with their land in 2021 to protect the wildlife and village’s continued growth and, to this day the village continues its journey back to life, with further restorations in progress during 2025.
News from the Village: Old Perithia 2024 November Update. As 2024’s summer season nears the close in Old Perithia and it turns to autumn and winter, here’s a brief update on what’s been, and will be happening in the village. Looking back to 2010 when the village began its revival thanks mainly to the passion, care, investment, renovations, publication of the history and a guided walk of the village and a lot of publicity worldwide, the village rose form 15% intact or in progress, to 35%+ by c. 2021. In spite of the setbacks of covid [worldwide] Brexit [for a key tourism market for Greece] and further back around 2010-14 the economic situation in Greece, A success and foundation was created to ensure the future of Old Perithia.
Fast forward to what is close to the end of October now [2024] and another 10+* houses [ruins] have been purchased, which are either work in progress, or work in the future. This along with the protection of land adjacent to the famous and iconic ‘Skordilis Mansions and Arch’. More properties have, or are also in the process of being available to stay in, including a large house on the ‘far’ side of the village which had been restored after the help and effort, again of the couple from 2010, and is now available to rent for families. A shop has opened, and another 3* houses that had been restored but then abandoned, are also now in the hands of the local council and perhaps they too will rise again. Having sold the b&b that started it all , and land in 2024, the couple left in 2021, but their foundation has ensured the above growth continues to this day., now exceeding 45% of potential and actual restorations, tripling, and turning around, its decline to growth in just over 10 years.
Hopefully, along with this increase in building and renovations, (which hasn’t happened since 2021), will be greater care and involvement in the sustainability, care and investment in, the village as it is showing signs of decline and that original lack of care once more appears to be repeating itself. Nevertheless, it’s a balance, not of pure commercial gain, but of combined progress and protection to ensure that people continue to visit what they expect when it won the village it’s first and only TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Award in that short history, having been nowhere to be seen on Trip Advisor back in 2012. Old Perithia is a beautiful jewel in the crown of the island, but the jewels need to remain within the crown to retain that title, a message those who truly know and care for the village will understand. Watch this space or more importantly, go see for yourself and thanks to all of the visitors who help Old Perithia’s ongoing journey. One day it could be a successful and established, ‘living community’ once again, as it was less than 75 years ago…
Incredible Greece | Corfu [Fraport] ‘Through the Lens‘ by Julia Klimi. The article includes a mention of Old Perithia …click to buy the book about the history & a self guided walk around ‘Corfu’s Oldest Village’. Though the photos aren’t that great in the article, it’s an interesting perspective. It would have been good to have some stunning shots to accompany the text 😉
Old Perithia: European Enterprise Winner 2021… click the link to vote for the village again in 2024! [part of a series of international awards, and intl. press and media for the village between 2011 & 2021 incl. the TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Award]. Plus, subsequent awards since 2021 can be seen below… follow Old Perithia on facebook at https://www.facebook.com/OldPerithia/?locale=en_GB
August 1st 2024: Kayak the guide to Corfu [Reise-Guide für Korfu] now features Old Perithia as a leading visitor attraction [Top 5 der Gründe, Korfu zu besuchen], ‘Discover more to do’ visit Kayak here.
The best part of Corfu, with fewer tourists, incredible food and quiet beaches. CityA.M. 15 July ’24:
“…but my dad and I had another adventure in mind, starting from Old Perithia. SNAKING INLAND The path leading down from Old Perithia is a chalky white stone farmer’s track some 650 metres above sea level. Perithia was built here in the 14th century to protect villagers from pirate attacks common near the coast. The brilliant blues of the water were viewable but looked impossibly far away through the fold of the mountains. https://www.cityam.com/the-best-part-of-corfu-with-less-tourists-incredible-food-and-quiet-beaches/
The Skordilis Estate. It’s been 12 years or so since the early beginnings of Old Perithia’s journey back to life, which started back in 2010 when 3 houses were faithfully restored and created as a boutique b&b. At that time about 12-15% of the village was restored or in process and although it was known for the handful of tavernas and a good spot to stop and eat on the Corfu Trail, it was in decline. Fast forward until 2021 when it had (with the passion of an Anglo-Dutch couple, who helped with and inspired further restorations) grown to 35/40% restorations or work in progress.
The aim of the couple had always been to hand over their passion project, to ensure the village continued along the same path, hopefully one day, returning to a thriving community once again. This is where, The Skordilis Estate, takes the next steps towards that goal. The Anglo-Greek couple (Tim and Eirini), that are behind the new [old ;)] developments have lived in the village for some years and are now faithfully restoring 5 properties, as well as preserving the land adjacent to the iconic Skordilis Mansion and Arch (also, once owned by Mark & Saskia who restored the three houses.) This should be a game changer for the villages’ future. The land also has the remains of the old look out tower (vigla) for the days when pirate attacks on the island were common. Importantly, the aim is preservation and empathy towards the roots and history of the village, of Venetian architectural origins, a ‘Heritage Protected site’ in ‘An Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty’. Here’s a selection of photos of the work now in progress – watch this space for updates! [courtesy of The Skordilis Estate, copyright 07.2024.]
Trips of a Lifetime Corfu [Telegraph Travel 3rd July 2024] The pace is slower at the top of the island, but quiet delights await. Roda is an endlessly pretty village. Old Perithia, on the northern side of Pantokrator, is just as photogenic – and is an ideal place to start a hike up the mountain.
https://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/trips-of-a-lifetime/corfu-itinerary/
12 years after an Anglo-Dutch couple started the revival of Old Perithia, today, and Anglo-Greek couple announce some groundbreaking (literally :)) news! Look back in a few weeks for updates …
“Today after 3 years of planning and negotiations with the Archaelogy department we finally broke ground on the re-development of The Skordilis Estate, Old Perithia, Corfu.
“You’ll need to squint and close one eye but this will end up as a luxury retreat in our World Heritage village! As with all construction we need to break it even more so we can make it better so it will be a slow process but we are aiming for a partial opening for next season.” Tim Burt, The Skordilis Estate.
#OldPerithia #Restoration #BacktoLife #MountainVillage #Revival #Passion #TimBurt #SkordilisEstate #SuccessStory #Preservation
Protection | Preservation | The Future – Old Perithia 2024 – Towards the future. For those of you who are familiar with Old Perithia, or may be visiting for the first time, there’s some great recent news for the village this year…
As eluded to in the previous post, we can now announce the sale of the land adjacent to Skordilis Mansions and the iconic arch, it’s the land that looks to the sea, as seen from the remains of the old ‘look-out’ tower across the beautiful piece of land [perivoli] to the sea. A few photos and a video below show you this important wild land that’s been cared for over the past 12 years to preserve the wildlife and beauty of the village itself. Bought by the couple who restored three ruins and brought ‘The Merchant’s House’ and life back to the village from 2010, it’s now been sold to a delightful couple who, with the same principles and aims, seek to continue to help revive the village, and also to protect it – the land is in safe hands! A new chapter is beginning in ‘Corfu’s Oldest Village‘ and with that comes further preservation and hope for it’s sustained revival. As the coupe had envisioned those 12+ years ago, tuture generations can see and experience what generations of locals before them have lived through, a past – that is forever connected to the present and future.
May ’24… Watch this space for some exciting news about Old Perithia as another milestone in its revival is due to take place soon. https://maps.app.goo.gl/UN8di2FkKoJ8zSAh7
The Sunday Times Travel, April 28th 2024 “CORFU’ 23 of the best things to do in Corfu...
Discover the best things to do on this most surprising of Greek islands, from swimming in hidden coves to paragliding over the interior. [Old Perithia / Palia Perithia gets two mentions… delighted to see the village continues on it’s road to revival, ever since 2010.]
4. Hike up Mount Pantokrator. Not one for mid-summer, but if you’re visiting Corfu in spring or autumn, a walk up Mount Pantokrator offers some fantastic hiking, with far-reaching views and a café at the top. The mountain is located in the northeast and, at 906m (2,972ft) tall, is the highest peak on Corfu. Start your stroll at Old Perithia, the island’s oldest village, whose inhabitants helped to build the monastery at the top. Alternatively you can drive, making sure to keep your eyes on the winding road and not be distracted by the views towards Albania.
7. Visit villages untouched by time. For a taste of traditional Corfiot life, leave the seaside resorts for a day and seek out one of this isle’s many villages. Among the most charming are Palia Perithia and Loutses in the north, plus Afionas and Pelekas in the west.
https://www.thetimes.co.uk/travel/destinations/europe-travel/greece/corfu/best-things-to-do-on-corfu-nr39922z5
03.04.2024: National Geographic Travel
Great to see Old Perithia back in National Geographic Travel for the second time in 12 months… ‘The 31 best Greek islands to visit in 2024‘ and mention of our project back in 2010 to ‘gently bring it back to life’ and even the Travellers’ Choice Award on Trip Advisor for the village and hotel. The b&b is now under new ownership… the land and look out tower adjacent to Skordilis Mansions and Archway is still currently owned by Mark & Saskia.
10. Corfu: Head for the hills:… With its Venetian-style capital and sandy beaches, Corfu is one of Greece’s most-visited islands. It’s worth heading for the hills here. Old Perithia, the island’s highest village, was founded in the 14th century, but by the 1950s its inhabitants had left, leaving only a taverna for hikers. In 2010, a couple from the UK fell in love with the village, buying a property (now a boutique B&B) and kicking off its slow restoration. Today, it’s a riot of wildflowers in spring.
https://www.nationalgeographic.com/travel/article/best-greek-islands-visit-this-year
19.03.2024 The Tech Edvocate: Exploring new destinations with your family doesn’t have to break the bank. Budget-conscious travelers can rejoice at these eight affordable vacation spots that promise engaging experiences for all ages, without the hefty price tag….” no.8. Corfu, Greece: This Ionian Island boasts clear blue waters alongside historic sites like Old Perithia and Angelokastro Castle. Enjoy bargain-priced seafood and authentic Greek dishes away from the tourist-heavy areas.” You don’t have to pay to visit Old Perithia, and there’s a guide to the history + a self-guided tour of the village for just €10 at Diaplasi Bookshop in Acharavi, tel. +30 2663 063551 / or £10– online at etsy. See the whole article below:
https://www.thetechedvocate.org/these-are-the-8-best-places-to-visit-with-family-for-cheap
Looking to visit Corfu in 2024, and its oldest village then pick up the official guide to its history with a map and self guided-walking tour of the village showing the highlights as you explore this significant village of Venetian architectural origins, for just €10 / £10, it’s a great day out. Available on the following link or at Diaplasi Bookshop [ Address: Βορεια Κερκυρα, Acharavi 490 81, Greece Tel: +30 2663 063551 ] or online at: https://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/1233534851/old-perithia-corfus-oldest-village-the
As 2023 draws to an end, thanks to all who have visited or helped the village continue its journey back to life … Look out for an exciting article in a major travel magazine ahead of the 2024 tourist season in Corfu. As we have always done, since the revival of the village back in 2011/12, we keep up the international press and pr for Old Perithia and continue to help its future success through positive news and reviews… watch this space! There’s also another key change in the village in 2024, (work in progress) so lots to look forward to. Seasons Greetings!
‘Mamma Mia – I have a dream‘, the new series on ITVX is now in full swing, so far in episodes 1 and 3, Old Perithia has featured at the start of each episode. Episode 1 filmed in Gabriel’s Steps Taverna near the top of the village, and episode 3 in the ‘village square’ surrounded by three tavernas, The Old Perithia, Foros and Evdokia. Tune in to watch on ITVX catch up, or to see the upcoming episodes…
Old Perithia Goes Green… Kerkyra Simera. The owner of a restaurant in the area, Nikos Cheirdaris, spoke to ERT3 and the show “Perimetros” and mentioned how the village had returned to life after a couple invested in, and helped revive, the village The video and article also discuss the recovery from the recent fires. click here for the full story:
Old Perithia: The village that people from abroad fell in love with and helped to regenerate! Old Perithia is one of the most beautiful villages of Corfu that carries on its back a very interesting history. It was inhabited in the 14th century as a refuge, only to be abandoned shortly after World War II in the 1960s. However, in recent years it seems to be rising from the ashes, catching the eye of the global media community, such as the Guardian. Let’s discover the unique historical place of Old Perithia….
Old Perithia: The village that people from abroad fell in love with and helped to regenerate!
The gentle journey back to life continues. Since the original catalyst for the revival of Old Perithia back in 2010 with the restoration of three houses to create the first b&b/small hotel + (with a couple who took a leap of faith) then helping with further restorations and clearing paths around the village, maps, signs, bins, better parking and protection of the village etc., including pr, and publishing, ‘The Official Guide to the History, including a self-guide tour of Old Perithia’ plus a lot of media publicity worldwide. Remembering the article in The Guardian in the year the B&B was sold which, among many others over the years, aligned the revival to the Anglo-Dutch couple whose passion acted as the catalyst to the success of the village today. Here are the highlights for 2023 and beyond. In 2010 the village was approximately 12-15% restored or in process, today that figure is closer to 35%… let’s look at some of the work in progress and, the new shop, expanding tavernas and other future projects now in process, including another 4 house restoration over the coming year or two 😉 The Old Perithia Guide, History and a self-guided tour is €10 click the lonk, and/or available at: diaplasi@hotmail.gr ☎️ 0030 26630 63551 in Acharavi, Corfu..
Filming for ITV’s Mamma Mia! series took place in Old Perithia today 13th May 2023: [Palia Perithia] The village also recently featured in ITV’s 2021 ‘Greek Island’s with Julia Bradbury’… The Guide to the History & self-guided tour of the village is available at etsy.
“The iconic Mamma Mia! which highlighted Greece so much and enchanted the viewers in its cinematic and theatrical expression, is becoming a television program entitled Mamma Mia! I Have a Dream, by FremantleMedia Limited and executive produced by the UK’s Picky Productions.
Part of the filming of the television program is taking take place on the island of Corfu.
In particular, from May 10th to June 15th, filming is taking place in public areas of North Corfu, offering an excellent opportunity to make places of infinite natural beauty and communities and settlements of the area widely known abroad, resulting in their tourism promotion. and development.
In detail, filming is planned at Agios Spyridon beach, Limenas Kouloura, Palia Perithia [Old Perithia], the White House in Kalami, the port of Kassiopi, Agios Stefanos Sinion, Astrakeris beach, Arilla beach and the port of Imerolia, always with respect to monuments, archaeological sites, historical sites and other important landmarks.”
https://lnkd.in/e4BH5Srh
April 2023: For fans of Greek Cooking, specially Corfiot recipes, Anastasia Miari’s second book ‘YiaYia’ is out soon, buy it here… YiaYia
From Paleokastritsa to Old Perithia: The Ultimate Corfu Bucket List ‘For a glimpse into the past, Old Perithia is an unmissable destination. With its restored houses, reminiscent of times long gone, a few quaint restaurants, and the tranquility of its natural surroundings, the village is a testament to the island’s rich cultural heritage.”
Old Perithia – A Glimpse into the Past… “Old Perithia was permanently abandoned by its inhabitants in the 1960s, when the last families settled in the coastal areas below it. However, despite being abandoned by the people of Corfu, […thanks to the investment, support, promotion, press & pr of an Anglo-Dutch couple, Mark & Saskia, back in 2010 + publication of ‘The Official Guide & Self-walking tour’] today it adorns many pages of Greek and foreign magazines, which rank it among the most attractive destinations, not only in Greece, but also in Europe.” https://mykerkyra.com/en/old-perithia/ article by My Kerkyra
Welcome to 2023… we look forward to welcoming you to Old Perithia in the upcoming year. Don’t forget to pick up the Walking Guide, Tour and History of Old Perithia before your visit.
TRAVEL | NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC 16th March 2023 by Zoe McIntyre
Alternative Corfu, from deserted beaches to wild backroads
“I finish for the night in Old Perithia, the oldest village on the island, high on the northeast coast. In the 1300s, this lofty hinterland kept locals safe from pirate raids, but when tourism hit, the villagers abandoned it for the coast. Today, it’s bouncing back from near-extinction and many of the 130 or so stone house ruins are gradually being brought back to life.” [The Merchant’s House today, was from an original restoration of three ruins back in 2010 and acted as the catalyst for the village’s revival by Mark & Saskia Hendriksen-Bosch.]
Secret: If you look carefully at the front gate of the now, ‘guesthouse’ at The Merchant’s House, you can see the initials M&S that were designed by the blacksmith after Mark & Saskia’s engineer secretly added them as a thank you to them both for their taking the leap of faith to revive Old Perithia and restoring the three properties that are now there for visitors to stay in, and 99% unchanged from how they were when they sold them back in 2021, both inside and out.
https://www.nationalgeographic.co.uk/travel/2023/03/alternative-corfu-greece-from-deserted-beaches-to-wild-backroads
AllTrails offer some great walks in and around Old Perithia, and you can find our suggestions on this site too [Stay Eat Do See] meanwhile check the alltrails link… for Perithia + Pantokrator.
OLD PERITHIA, THE COMEBACK by Greece Confidential
Old Perithia was declared a Historic Monument due to its remarkable Venetian architecture, but remained almost uninhabitable. Nevertheless, since 2010 a change have been occurred. Sitting at the neat flowery yards of the few remaining taverns, Corfiots and foreigners alike, enchanted by the aura from the village’s past, are listening carefully its historic whispers, *while an Englishman Mark, with his Dutch wife Saskia, restored three houses and established an exemplary B&B [the first on the island], thus instigating others to join them in a genuine escape.
“By chance and proving that small world theory, we bumped into Mark Hendriksen, a publisher from London who has worked with his wife Saskia to restore the village’s buildings and protect its storied heritage.” March 2023 Thanks to the talented food critic, David J Constable, for this recent flashback on Instagram about Old Perithia and its tavernas, at the time Capricorn, which is now Evdokia and under new ownership since 2021… Click the link to read the full article: https://civilianglobal.com/food-and-drink/a-side-of-great-chunky-overflowing-charm-taverna-capricorn
Restaurant Guru Award Old Perithia Feb 2023 https://restaurantguru.com/Alkinoos-Palia-Peritheia-Perithia-2
The TV show that ‘almost’ happened… back in 2016 Old Perithia, CORFU – But, at least we got to rehang the church bell at St. Spyridon Church [right of picture] and film with some great tv stars.
C5 orders Corfu Cookery School from Twofour – Televisual
Channel 5 has commissioned Corfu Cookery School(w/t), a new 6×60-min travelogue series
As the 2022 season draws to a close, Old Perithia once again makes the Top 10 Things to Do on Corfu – at no. 8…
OLD PERITHIA, CORFU: A COMPLETE GUIDE by mynomaddiction Nov 2022
A potted history and complete guide of Old Perithia.
“Many attribute the restoration of Old Perithia to the original restorers and owners of the *Merchant’s House, a bed and breakfast that allowed tourists to stay in the village for the first time.” [Mark & Saskia Hendriksen Bosch*]
Like this? For the whole story… buy The official Guide to Old Perithia, a history & self-guided walking tour of Corfu’s Oldest Village, available on etsy.
https://mynomaddiction.com/old-perithia-corfu
12 years on Old Perithia now has 3 Million + views on Google per year and growing… Since bringing the village of Old Perithia gently back to life since 2010, and all the publicity, press and pr + publishing ‘The Official Guide to Old Perithia, the History & self-guided tour’ we are delighted to now average over 250,000+ views per month on our Google page… that’s 3 million views a year, from a handful back in 2010. It’s been a very busy year on the island in 2022 and ‘the village itself ‘Corfu’s Oldest Village‘ continues to grow. There’s a new local shop, more properties being restored, a taverna under new management and there’s lots in the pipeline. Thank you to all our visitors for your support. You can also still buy the book about Old Perithia’s history + a self-guide walking tour on etsy [click here].
Greek Reporter 30 September 2022. Old Peritheia Corfu’s Oldest Historic Village.
“Since 2010, the village has begun coming alive once again…” The article discusses the history and its revival since 2010 when a couple bought & restored three properties, wrote the book about the village and then helped bring life and further restorations back. That and the press and pr they created has put the village firmly at the top of Corfu’s most popular attractions, ensuring its future for visitors and local alike. Read the full article here.
Top 20 Things to Do in Corfu 2022
19. Walk in the old village of Perithia
Old Perithia is considered to be Corfu’s oldest village and is located on the flanks of Mount Pantokrator. Walk around the 14th-century houses and churches, enjoy the view and peacefulness of the place… If you are lucky, you might encounter its only resident: a friendly fox, usually walking around the village at sunset! There are a few tavernas (Greek restaurants) where you can enjoy an excellent lunch or dinner in a beautiful setting, and think about how sweet life is… https://thebeachmuse.com/20-best-things-to-do-in-corfu…/
The medieval village of Corfu that was deserted in the 50s and is being repopulated. Old Perithia 2022: The medieval village of Corfu that was deserted in the 50s and is being repopulated, due to the role of an Anglo-Dutch couple [2010]. The Old Perithea was built during the Middle Ages, but has been occasionally inhabited since ancient times. … Read the whole article: http://www.mixanitouxronou.gr/to-mesaioniko-chorio-tis-kerkyras-poy-erimothike-tin-dekaetia-toy-50-kai-xanakatoikeitai/
ONEMAN August 5th 2022 Corfu: Alternative holidays on the island. “You travel back in time to Palia Perithia, a ruined village in a green landscape, with stone houses of Venetian architecture and narrow cobblestone streets. In Kassiopi, the large fishing village, you will find several places for entertainment and fish restaurants. On the fifteenth of August there is even a big festival.” https://www.oneman.gr/life/kerkira-enallaktikes-diakopes-sto-nisi-ton-faiakon/
In2Life August 12th 2022 The Best of Corfu: “In Old Perithia, you will come face to face with the oldest settlement of the island, an abandoned Venetian village with stone-paved alleys of mansions surrounded by nature that claims its share against human intervention.” https://www.in2life.gr/escape/destinations/article/1016194/ta-kalytera-ths-kerkyras.html
Glow August 2nd 2022, Christina Martini of Ancient Greek Sandals welcomes us to her personal base in Corfu... Favourite places: The beaches of Erimitis in northern Corfu, an area of unique biodiversity in Greece, with wild nature and turquoise waters. Unfortunately, it will not exist for long, because a marina and hotel complex are being built. Old Perithia, a ruined mountain village, perfect for walks that end in its taverns. https://glow.gr/h-xristina-martini-ton-ancient-greek-sandals-mas-ipodekhetai-sto-prosopiko-tis-ormitirio-stin-kerkira-41649
‘A very different Corfu awaits up in Old Perithia, a Venetian-era village in the shadow of Mount Pantokrator, abandoned in the 1950s. A crumble of ruins peppered with wildflowers, the village is slowly returning to life.’ From an Article in ‘The Times” 18th August 2022… about the village and the catalyst of the restorations to create the island’s first b&b back in 2011, which led to the village, ‘coming back to life’ and whose subsequent sale in 2021, and then new ownership, set a new price benchmark for the ‘abandoned village’ and has continued to secure and preserve the future of Old Perithia for years ahead. www.old-perithia.com 👍🏻🙏❤️
The 2022 Corfu Literary Festival 19th – 25th September 2022 Corfu, Greece, with an amazing line up of speakers & cricketers in the perfect location. Book now to avoid disappointment click here to discover all you need to know:
No. 8 in the Top Ten Attractions on Corfu: Old Perithia 2022 on TripAdvisor, for another year in a row,,,
One of the advantages of eating in the village is the local dishes, at local prices… summer 2022
Walk, explore, discover, eat, repeat!
Greek Reporter ‘The Best Places to Visit on Your First Trip to Greece’ | July 2022 Corfu
While on Corfu, don’t miss out on a unique opportunity to visit Palea Perithia, the Venetian-era village hidden in the north slope of island’s Mount Pantokrator to be transported back in time. The village, which was abandoned after the 1960’s, has undergone many restoration projects since 2010, including the restoration of the 14th-century church of Agios Iakovos O Persis which you see as you approach the village… visit: https://greekreporter.com/2022/07/03/the-best-places-to-visit-on-your-first-trip-to-greece/
Παλιά Περίθεια: Το χωριό – φάντασμα της Κέρκυρας που αναγεννήθηκε Ένας οικισμός που ταξιδεύει κάθε επισκέπτη στο χρόνο και εντυπωσιάζει όλους όσους αναζητούν κάτι διαφορετικό.
Χριστίνα Καλαμπακτασώτη | May 2022
https://www.diakopes.gr/general/palia-peritheia-to-xorio-fantasma-tis-kerkyras-pou-anagennithike/
Old Perithia is currently in the top ten things to do on Corfu on TripAdvisor 2022, sitting at no. 8 of 799 ‘attractions and best places to visit.’ Added to which we’ve now reached an average of well over 1/4 million [250,000] views a month on Google.
Seasons. After the wild spring flowers in the land have all but disappeared, the land is cleared to avoid too many brambles taking over and to allow for a beautiful season ahead… Today, the weather is just right 😉 to prepare it all again. [Photos: Mark & Saskia’s land is located by Skordilis Mansions, Old Perithia Corfu where you see the sign below]. As featured in ‘the BBC’s Adriatic Gardens’ with Monty Don – the third photo is as it was when he visited In May and the fourth is a view of the entire piece of land and terraces from above…
As the 2022 season takes off… here’s a look back at this time last year when the uncertainty of holidays and visits to Old Perithia still seemed beyond reach… Corfu, “Old Perithia, Corfu Greece. How an ancient village recaptured its magical past.”
Top Attractions on Corfu 2022… no. 8 Old Perithia!! 😉 2010 not even featured on TripAdvisor so thanks to all of our visitors for taking it to no. 8!! 👏👏 https://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/Attractions-g189458-Activities-a_allAttractions.true-Corfu_Ionian_Islands.html
May 2022: Updates on the Village Maps & Signs. With things hotting up for summer 2022 and with 151,279 views on google already this month Old Perithia is all set for a great season. It’s now been quite some years since the ‘Welcome Sign‘ that greets you as you enter the village was repaired, restored and updated, with the subsequent sun damage it’s now in need of a refresh and we hope to have that done sometime during the summer. There’s usually a ‘Village Map & Sign‘ welcoming visitors, showing them the walking trail around the village and surrounding countryside + details of the tavernas and other businesses in the village. This is licensed to a couple who originally had it made and paid for + supplied the maps and details (with copyright permission to use the map etc. from their publishing company) with the approval of the archaeological department on the island, they have owned and maintained it since c. 2012. Last year a new taverna ‘Evdokia’ joined the other four in the village replacing what was, ‘Capricorn’ and there have been a few other changes too including a new shop opening soon. We are looking to erect it again this year or in 2023 – but need to get a new agreement on the license, as it’s in a ‘protected area,’ and also update the details. This may take some time, specially with the events of the past 2 years or so, but we’ll keep you posted. Meanwhile please write to us if you would like to receive a copy of the map & sign [for your personal use only. It is not available for commercial use] or buy the official guide to Old Perithia… here! Meanwhile here’s an update on the ‘Honey Shop.’
Opening in Old Perithia this year, the ‘Honey Shop‘ will sell local honey and local products.
Corfu: The Guardian Picks Thessaloniki, Epirus, Corfu for Holidays in 2022
Posted On 12 Jan 2022
Corfu island, Greece. Photo source: corfu.gr
Corfu’s 14th-century ghost village – the Old Perithia – is also on Malathronas’ wishlist for 2022, due to its ancient history that is associated with five ancient theaters restored and promoted as part of a new archaeological route.
The latest Top 5 photos of Old Perithia on Google [copyright Mark Hendriksen 2010-2022] 1) 346k views 2) 123.4k views 3) 70.1k views 4) 59.4k views & 5) 30.1k views… check them all out at https://g.co/kgs/XxMUNF
UK’s Evening Standard Reveals 20 Most Beautiful Greek Islands for Summer Holidays posted on 03 Feb 2022 by GTP editing team: “Overall, there are more than 50 sand or pebble beaches to choose from, including a north-eastern stretch of exclusive villas, and many small coves accessible by boat or dinghy. Kynopiastes, Argyrades and Melikia stand out among the island’s many inland villages, as does the abandoned village of Old Perithia (the island’s oldest). https://www.gtp.gr/LocPage.asp?id=5857
TripAdvisor Top 10 Things to Do on Corfu in 2022 – at No. 8 Visit Old Perithia
2nd Feb 2022 | European Enterprise Awards 2021 for Best Historic Village ‘Old Perithia, Corfu’ We are delighted to have just received this award for the village after our shortlisting back in early 2021. Great news for the village and the island. Thank you to EU Business for the award.
New Year – another TV appearance. Happy New Year to you all, as Old Perithia has established itself as a regular on international television and in the media, good to see that there’s now great interest again for 2022. BBC 2 has a new series with Monty Don and whilst we were aware of them in the village last year filming we were in Corfu town. However, the production team seemed to make themselves at home by the B&B. Mark & Saskia, the previous owners and original couple to restore the three buildings that form the b&b today and improved the village’s decline. Subsequently creating a huge increase in visitor numbers and press attention for the village over the 10 years they ran & owned the property.
In fact, the village received TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Award 2021 in their final year of owning the b&b, ensuring its position as one of the leading attractions and success stories for the island. – A perfect end to 2021 and accolade for the hard work and love of the village by visitors and locals alike.
Now fast forward… we got a perfect start to 2022 for the village, enjoy the above series on Corfu which appears in Episode 3 featuring on Old Perithia (see pictures below). Click the link: Monty Don to see the episode. We subsequently discovered that, the BBC & AHA who made the series, used our private pice of land and we’d hoped they would make a small financial contribution having made them aware. We felt it could be used towards further improvements, an updated map & information & to protect the land & help the village in other ways but regrettably not.
Anyway, here’s a few images from Monty Don & Lee Durrell’s time in our land in Old Perithia below. Meanwhile, Mark & Saskia have, and continue with their pr to support the village. The iconic piece of land next to Skordilis Mansions along with the historic ‘look-out’ tower (they purchased some years ago) was used as a warning post for informing Corfu town of potential pirate attacks.
The WEEK Saturday 27th November 2021 UK edition… apart from Boris 
nice mention, plus another award on the horizon for Old Perithia, it’s a wrap for 2021 
The Times Travel: (21) Best things to do on Corfu [Nov 2021…]
No. 6. Hike up Mount Pantokrator
Not one for mid-summer, but if you’re visiting Corfu in spring or autumn, a walk up Mount Pantokrator offers some fantastic hiking, with far-reaching views and a café at the top. The mountain is located in the northeast and, at 906m tall, is the highest peak on Corfu.
Start your stroll at Old Perithia, the island’s oldest village, whose inhabitants helped to build the monastery at the top.
Alternatively you can always drive, making sure to keep your eyes on the winding road and not be distracted by the views towards Albania.
https://www.thetimes.co.uk/travel/destinations/europe/greece/corfu/best-things-to-do-on-corfu
“We have watched and cheered on their journey to bring Perithia out of her coma, through the trails and tribulations, joys and achievements, whilst they in turn have watched and championed our aims to – firstly – remind the world that we play a damn good game of cricket on Corfu and for that path to then lead us on to establishing a Festival of the arts. Neither they nor we are catalysed by making any money but, rather, by a shared vision to show and share our beloved magical island with others.“
Annabelle Louvros | Corfu Literary Festival … ON CRICKET, LITERATURE & THE REVIVAL OF OLD PERITHIA
Travel Eleftheria September 2021 Old Perithia: “At a distance of about 40 km from the city of Corfu, there is a rare village with an eerie aesthetic and special magic, which can even make you shudder. And especially when the weather conditions favor it and the mysterious veil of fog spreads over the village. The reason, then, for Old Perithia, just 8 km from the resort of Kassiopi, at the foot of Mount Pantokrator. It is a mountainous and historic village with most of its buildings abandoned today, dating back to the 13th century. Old Perithia was created during the pirate threat in the Mediterranean – it is not visible from afar – and today it is a ghost village, as its last inhabitants left it during the 60’s, to settle in the coastal modern village. [footnote: since 2012 the village has been gently coming back to life]” https://travel.eleftheriaonline.gr/travel/item/7547-palia-peritheia-to-chwrio-ths-kerkyras-me-thn-apokosmh-atmosfaira-fwtografies
Mark’s photos of Old Perithia, Corfu October 2021 on Google … part of the largest collection of photos of the village 2007 -2021 
The Guardian walks through the story of Old Perithia’s journey back to life… 2021
Old Peritheia the history and catalyst that led to it’s recovery & rediscovery back in 2010 with a ‘Beautifully restored B&B, that is picture-book pretty.’ Since then the village has been gently nurtured by the same couple, and gone from 12-15% restored to over 35%+. It has just been awarded ‘The TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Award 2021′ placing it among the top 10% of attractions worldwide.
EUROPE TRAVEL SNOBS: 16 unspoilt places to visit in Corfu for travel snobs… October 2021 | 7. Perithia – an abandoned medieval village that is being reborn
This is a unique and unspoilt place in Corfu. Perithia was an old medieval village on a mountain plateau of the highest mountain Pantokrator at the north Corfu. It was built there so couldn’t be detected by the pirates of the middle ages, and thrived. A rich village as the old house’s remains reveal.
But after the 19th century, the pirate’s thread ceased, and the life for the residents was hash, so slowly the locals fleet away to find better living, and finally, the village was abandoned.
Now there are only the remains of a glorious past, with old mansions without roofs and heavily damaged, with some stony small roads crossing between houses and ruins. But, today something is changing [initiated by an Anglo-Dutch couple* back in 2012.] The descendants of the old owners also started to rebuild and repair the houses, the abandoned village is going to live again. of the old owners started to rebuild and repair the houses, the abandoned village is going to live again.
Back to the Future: by A Sakalis. “20 years ago I would have told you that Old Perithia had no future. Now I feel like our best days might be yet to come.” Old Perithia – an atmospheric former Ghost Village – and Mark and Saskia Hendriksen-Bosch, the couple who have helped revive it and turn it into one of Corfu’s most spellbinding attractions.“: The Guardian SATURDAY magazine ‘Travel’ Oct 16th 2021
Our first step back then was to create the island’s first mountain village Boutique B&B (subsequently no.1 on TripAdvisor for 6 years in a row, also the winner of The Travellers’ Choice Award in 2018 B&Bs & Inns) as there was nowhere to stay up there in the mountain and then begin to gently bring the village back to life.
In 2010 Mark wrote and published a book about the history along with a self-guided walking tour of the village. At the same time we began to improve the village, collect the rubbish in and for 6km around it, hide the big bins behind a fence, create and pay for 2 welcome signs and a put up a map and guide to the village. Laid local stones to keep cars from being parked anywhere they fancied, including right outside the heritage buildings, added some no through road signs, cleared all of the overgrown paths around the village to enable people to be able to explore the entire village, replace broken street lamps, help with further restorations, bought and managed some land and the historic ‘look-out tower’ etc., and created a rough parking area near the entry to the village.
Together with great friends (old and new) and the support we had from our guests, some locals + the press and pr we achieved aided our efforts to create the catalyst to bring it back to life.
Back in 2010 Old Perithia wasn’t even featured on Google nor anywhere in the TripAdvisor rankings… so having achieved the Travellers” Choice Award for our B&B in 2018 – it’s absolutely brilliant news that this year we have achieved ‘The TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice for Old Perithia 2021′ making it one of the top 10% of attractions worldwide, and we’ve received close to 250,000 views on Google so far…
You can read all about Old Perithia at old-perithia.com or check out our Google page. Poignantly, and with mixed emotions, part of our 10 year plan was to eventually sell the B&B to inject new blood and enthusiasm into the village, also to show how the value and love of Old Perithia had and could continue to grow. We have helped with what was 12-15% restored of 130 houses and 8 churches back in 2010 to over 35%+ restored or in process today… plus, 6 more have been sold since ours. We’ve continued as the catalyst for a couple more rave reviews for the B&B in the press (and as the first year since the sale in late May 2021 approaches, the new owners have been continuing to build its reputation). We’re happy to say it’s been a great success and we’ve certainly put the village on the map.
We’ve kept a beautiful piece of land that we bought along with the historic ‘look-out’ tower (there are plans ahead ;)) Mark, Saskia & Olga and thank you to everyone who helped us along the way to make it a success for the island 🙏 always friends 😍
Filming for the upcoming tv series “Αγάπη παράνομη” on EPT 1 took place in Old Perithia in the last week of September 2021…
26.08.2021 Beautiful Wedding Party at The Old Perithia Taverna in the attractive setting of the Old Village, the church of St. Spyridon in the background …
15 of the Best things to do on Corfu [Swedish Nomad 2021] | Palaia Peritheia The village Palia Perithia is situated on the slopes of Mount Pantokrator and features an unbelievable number of eight churches. The name Perithia translates to heavenly and the villagers of the past centuries did their best to live up to this name.
Palaia Peritheia is a great example of what the first villages on Corfu must have been like in the 14th century. This is due to the numerous houses (around 100) that have been restored to their original state in the 19th century.
Today the village has been established as a heritage site which means it is not allowed to change any of the houses (they must be restored as they were c. 1650-1850).
Mount Pantokrator rises to 906m above sea level making it the island’s tallest mountain. The views here are incredible. if you make it to the summit, you can not only see all of Corfu, but you can even get a glance of Albania towards the east.
The trails towards the summit are well marked but require good stamina as it is quite a walk. If you start your hike from Palaia Peritheia it takes around 2 hours to get there. https://www.swedishnomad.com/things-to-do-in-corfu/
Old Perithia August 2021 | 5 more properties sold & due for renovation We hear that a cluster of 5 properties have now been sold adjacent to Skordilis Mansions (The Old School) and close by, another 2 properties are still in negotiation, This means the village is well and truly continuing on its path back to life. We’ll keep you posted on updates. Of course, to become a community once again takes time. As more properties are restored and more people return, the need for local shops and local employment increases, the need for better infrastructure follows and, we hope, the village will retain its archaeological protection and designation as an area of natural beauty – balanced with the benefits of bringing it back to life and saving one of the finest and most authentic examples of a successful mountain village and historic hideaway. In its heyday, Old Perithia was one of the wealthiest villages on the island, numerous vineyards lay buried beneath the overgrowth, the bees still thrive, there were crops growing in abundance, and there are still endless fruit trees, wild flowers, wild greens and herbs, there were 2/3 bakeries, a village grocery, coffee shops and of course they latterly grew to be full blown tavernas. In 12years it’s come back from 12-15% intact to over 35% today along with purchases of land in the village. We look forward to the continued restorations as Corfu’s ‘Oldest’ Village gradually becomes its ‘newest’ and it establishes itself once more.
Footnote: As Old Perithia sees the positive impact and boost from the recent sale of The ‘award winning’ Merchant’s House B&B (Corfu’s Oldest Village) ensuring it will continue its journey back to life, why not take a look at some of the properties that are for sale (or under offer)… Be part of the History & Become a part of the Future.
https://rrcorfurealestate.com/properties/rr3591-old-perithia-traditional-house-for-sale-north-corfu/
Greek Reporter 3rd July 2021: The Best Places to Visit on Your First Trip to Greece featuring Old Perithia Corfu
“The village, which was abandoned after the 1960’s, has undergone many restoration projects since then – including the restoration of the 14th-century church of Agios Iakovos O Persis which you see as you approach the village.” [Old Perithia, on a journey back to life since 2010…]
https://greekreporter.com/2021/07/03/the-best-places-to-visit-on-your-first-trip-to-greece
June 30th 2021 ‘The Greek Islands with Julia Bradbury‘, episode 2, Corfu & Old Perithia. Following on from yesterday’s Press Release about the historic village of Old Perithia, Corfu… Tonight on ITV at 8pm Julia Bradbury visits Old Perithia and sees how the village is gently coming back to life. Watch the episode here available for 1 month from 30th June 2021 {certain regions].
My Kerkyra Travel Magazine – Thanks to the investment and restoration of three ruined houses and press attention created by an Anglo-Dutch couple who helped revive the village and built the island’s first mountain Boutique B&B it has met with international attention and now ranks as one of the top attractions on Corfu. To quote MyKerkyra.com, “Despite being abandoned by the people of Corfu, today it adorns many pages of Greek and foreign magazines, which rank it among the most attractive destinations, not only in Greece, but also in Europe.” Please note it is not a UNESCO Heritage site but is ‘A Designated Area of Natural Beauty’ and a ‘Heritage Protected Village.’
Press Release Old Perithia Corfu Pressat 29 June 2021
23/06/2021 Supporting the Village and the important Beehives Vasilis Siriotis is the fourth generation of Siriotis to care for the bee hives of Old Perithia. Since the old couple, who had lived in Old Perithia all of their lives, passed away a few years ago, Vasilis practically became the sole custodian of the village’s homes for over 15 million of the many millions of bees. You can visit his beehives and buy the purest honey as well as other products created with the same love and care he gives to his bees. As a thank you for all he does for the village, our editor designed a flyer for him and so when you visit do look out for it and pick up a copy! [see the pre print pages below for a sneak preview! 😉 ]
We endeavour to help the village wherever possible, so, apart from the Village ‘Map and Sign’ + the ‘Welcome’ sign (both due to be updated soon) our editor has done business cards and all sorts of designs for a number of people. A while back was the flyer (and card) for The Old Perithia Taverna… take a look below, and see if you can spot them when you visit. It’s so important to preserve the history, past, present and future, so these flyers help to achieve that and inform visitors about Old Perithia too.
‘Two villages in Corfu are an absolute Dream’ 20/06/2021 Kerkyra Simera | Corfu Today article
OLD PERITHIA Corfu is undoubtedly one of the most popular, beautiful and special places on the island. An idolised ancient village, it is no coincidence that every year it is preferred by a large number of tourists who equally prefer Greece for their summer holidays. So, apart from its famous gastronomy and the beaches with the crystal clear waters of the Ionian, here you will find wonderful and picturesque village with special features, a unique chance to travel back in time. Old Perithia with a suitably eerie atmosphere, consists of half-ruined and deserted buildings, making it one of the most special attractions of the island. Most people visit the village to discover its mysterious and special beauty, where on most days there are a few taverns open for a traditional, Corfiot meal. The most important points of the villages recent revival include the Venetain red bell tower of Agios Iakovos of Persia at the entrance of Palia Perithea, as well as the old school, all of which are of special architectural interest. [Old Perithia, gently coming back to life since 2010…as seen on the front page and articles about its revival, Kerkyra Simera front pages 2011 & 2013] https://www.kerkyrasimera.gr/archives/84656
June 2021 | Pre-Press Release: The iconic Merchant’s House B&B in Old Perithia now has new owners and will reopen in July this year. Restored from three ruined houses in the village back in 2009, The Merchant’s House Boutique B&B in Old Perithia became the first B&B on Corfu with a new approach to tourism, in so much as it offered a 4star accommodation in an authentic traditional mountain village setting, rather than the ‘villa by the sea’. The original owners (an Anglo-Dutch couple, Mark & Saskia) restored the three houses and Mark also wrote a book about the village, to retain its history and to guide visitors around. In 2009 they also began their work on gently bringing the village back to life.
The B&B reached no.1 B&Bs and Inns on TripAdvisor in 2015 and remained there until its sale this year. It has received much acclaim from the press and media and inspired numerous articles and positive publicity for the village as well. Thanks to their input village has risen from approx. 12-15% restored or in process, to over 35% today and that curve is continuing to climb. After 12 years (of what they had envisaged as a 10 year project) they have now handed over the reins of the B&B to… another Anglo-Dutch couple who will open for their first season in July 2021. The news has met with some enchanting replies and responses from previous guests (see a few below). Mark & Saskia, who began their journey back in 2009, have established the village as a leading attractions on the island. They will now look after their land in the village & continue their pr & support of Old Perithia in the months & years to come.
“What a wonderful surprise to hear from you today, your story is so positive and unusual. I salute you both. In a period and place where and when the world deteriorates and disappoints, you have gone in the opposite direction and re- created a scene of beauty with the return of life to a magical past. Mists and mysteries, mountains and secret souls. I am glad you have acquired land for yourselves, up to a point you will always belong there, you will remain custodians in heart and soul of Old Perithia. Every summer it was high adventure to visit you, to see the beginnings and then the lovely plans in fruition.”
Jean
“We are so glad to have been an early part of your journey to rebuild Old Perithia and it sounds like you have gone from strength to strength. A great platform for others to continue your vision!”
Jane & Al
“Congratulations to you both for every element of your Old Perithia project and adventure. From the canny purchase, to the expert restoration, the challenges of working so empathetically with the locals to finally the sale. You both should be incredibly proud of yourselves. I am pleased to hear that there will still be a little part of you both in the village with the look out tower and land, it is only appropriate that you both are remembered with the highest regard by the whole village and by Corfu Heritage and Corfu Tourism.”
Rob & Mint
“We are so pleased for you! Well done on selling your amazing B&B and for your stellar work in revitalizing the village over the past decade plus. Please tell us more about your land and look-out tower in Old Perithia and what your eventual plans are. How we wish we were property owners in the village, too! What fun, we’d have being neighbours.”
Nicki & Terry
“It is nice to hear from you after such a long time. I am glad you are well. On the other hand, I am sorry to hear you are giving up The Merchant’s House. We are all going to miss you very much and Old Perithia will never be the same without you! However, life goes on and I am sure your decision is for the best. I hope you keep in touch and I look forward to see you on your next visit to Corfu. With best wishes and kind regards“
Apostolos and the rest of Patounis’ soap factory team
‘We know so well the import and breadth of your achievements and the care & sensitivity with which you’ve done it. Niko would so often cite you as EXACTLY the sort of emotional as well as operational & financial investment the island needed – believe me, you two have long been heroes to us. I hope to do another “Story of Old Perithia’s renaissance” day at a future Corfu Lit Festival.‘
ANNABELLE – Corfu Literary Festival
June 2021 | Old Perithia Taverna Update: Evdokia Taverna (previously Capricorn Taverna) in Old Perithia is now under new management. Exciting changes with Thomas & Dina now managing Evdokia and their having made an attractive traditional renovation to the property. Thomas is a local fireman and Dina an expert cook, so it’s great to see how the village continues to thrive and develop as we enter another new season. We wish them every success. The village now has five tavernas open day and night during the season and at weekends off-season. Mark & Saskia will update the village sign over the coming weeks.
Old Perithia’s journey Back to Life | Press, TV & Media reviews from the past 12 years about the village and it’s revival:
“Now, thanks to the love of these guys it’s finally getting the audience it deserves. What a special, magical place!”
‘Greek Islands with Julia Bradbury’ ON ITV [episode 2 Old Perithia Jan 2020]
Old Perithia | As featured in ITV’s new series in 2020 ‘The Greek Island’s with Julia Bradbury’ episode 2 starts at 7mins 27secs
woman&home ‘Unmissable Greek Islands’ Corfu Old Perithia
“Nevertheless, since 2010 a change has ocurred. Sitting at the neat flowery yards of the few remaining taverns, Corfiots and foreigners alike, enchanted by the aura from the village’s past, are listening carefully its historic whispers, while an Englishman with his Dutch wife restored three houses and established an exemplary B&B, thus instigating others to join them in a genuine escape.” [150% increase in the number of visitors have been shown since 2010, when the first houses were restored and the Merchant’s House B&B opened with its six luxury suites.]
Greece Confidential 2020 | Reborn from ruins Old Perithia Corfu
Hotel Guru Corfu and a visit to Old Perithia 2020
What Not to Miss: “Corfu’s oldest village, Old Perithia, is Heritage Listed and a really interesting place to stroll around. It has only 130 houses, yet eight churches! It was built high in the mountains as a hideaway from pirate attacks and because of this it was, at one time, Corfu’s wealthiest village.”
HOTEL GURU
Cunard Cruises, Corfu “Things to do in Corfu, Greece. Whether you spend your time on the island exploring the Old Town and its old Venetian Fortress, soaking up the sunshine on Arillas Beach, or visiting Old Perithia, Corfu’s Oldest Village, you’re sure to have a magical time.”
On the Trail of Past Times – Old Perithia, Wiki Travel 2019
FT Weekend ‘Catalyst to Bringing Village Back to Life’ | March 09 2019
The Crazy Tourist | 15 Best Things to Do on Corfu includes Old Perithia
Corfu & Paxos Life May 2019 ‘Old Perithia Feature’ pp14-17
Vivre Athenes May 2019 Recommends
EasyJet Magazine May 2018 ‘Featured Article’ Old Perithia, ‘The Entire Village is Mine’
Evening Standard Homes & Property Homes Abroad July 2018
“Mark Hendriksen and Saskia Bosch from West Hampstead lead a double life. Mark is a publisher and Saskia is a well-known Dutch voiceover artist but together they transformed three derelict properties into The Merchant’s House, a boutique B&B in north-east Corfu. ‘I came to see Old Perithia having read about deserted ghost villages,” says Mark. “It was a virtually abandoned Venetian mountain village where nature had taken over. We bought three terrace houses, renovated them and opened with six suites in 2012.’ – Guests come to walk among the wild orchids in the hills, to paint, write and enjoy the peace while being served fig-cherry jam, sourdough bread and lemonade, all made by Mark.“
LONDON EVENING STANDARD
GREC14N ‘Reborn from Ruins’ The Revival 2018 & 2019 Fraport Airport Magazine s/w 2018-2019 [pp143-146]
Indy|Go The Independent Travel 2017 | Old Perithia: Corfu’s Best Kept Secret
“The bees dominate the conversation with a steady hum that’s surprisingly meditative. “My family was the last to leave in the 1960s so I have an emotional connection to this place,” says Vasili. “My sons will have it when I am gone.” Thanks to Mark and Saskia’s restoration work on Old Perithia and the subsequent 150 per cent rise in its visitors, Vasili is now able to turn a profit selling honey and plans on returning to the mountain village and his beehives full-time.”
Anastasia Miari | The Independent
“Mark Hendriksen, British owner of The Merchant’s House guesthouse and his Dutch wife, Saskia explain to The Independent, “We read about this abandoned ghost village in the mountains in the villa we were staying at, came up here and fell in love with the place.” Along with the Archaeological Society, the couple have managed to restore the old Merchant’s House to its former Venetian glory, sourcing bespoke furniture from Crete to give it an authentic 17th century feel. Not only this, but they’re helping others restore their own properties to wake them from a 60-year slumber.“
Abandoned Mansions in Ghost Village of CorfU | SourceD Via: greekreporter.com
TravlrBlog & Holiday Autos 2017 The Real Corfu ‘Top 5’
House & Garden 2018 – Property | Promotion Aylesford International
The Rough Guide to the Greek Islands | 2015-2020
“Superbly renovated old stone house, with warmly painted suites… ‘great views and a fine breakfast” North East Corfu
THE ROUGH GUIDE
Atlas Obscura 2018 | Old Perithia’s Restoration
“Old Perithia is an enchanting anomaly. One of the oldest permanently inhabited villages on the island, Perithia was built in Byzantine times, around the 14th century. Looking out at the sea with the majestic Mount Pantokratora at its back, this was once the most pleasant place on the island, and even as the ancient buildings crumble, it’s still in the running. It was the wealthiest village on the island as well, a scenic, vine-filled sanctuary where sheep covered the hills, churches dotted the landscape, and disadvantaged pirates wisely ignored due to the unfavourable vantage.“
ATLAS OBSCURA
Lonely Planet | 2016-2020 ‘The Merchant’s House, Old Perithia’
The island’s most enchanting village is Old Perithia (old-perithia.com), a huddle of stone houses halfway up Mt Pantokrator (906m). While its ‘ghost town’ label isn’t entirely accurate, you’ll see abandoned Venetian houses and stone arches dappled with moss. A few restaurants and a guesthouse are reviving Old Perithia….
Secrets of Corfu: the hidden depths of Greece’s holiday isle – Lonely Planet
Great Small Hotels in Greece | 2013-2020 The Merchant’s House B&B, Old Perithia
A 17th century merchant’s house in the historical village of Palia Peritheia turned into an elegant hotel/B&B with five luxury suites. A truly romantic hide-away in a historical village in the hills of Corfu… “A Dutch/English couple on holidays in Corfu was intrigued when they read about Palia Peritheia, a centuries-old ‘ghost’ village hidden in the green mountains in the north of the island. They visited and instantly fell under the spell of its beauty and quiet, and were surprised to find out it actually still had two permanent residents, and also… five tavernas! For several years in a row Saskia and Mark came back and they started dreaming of living in this mesmerising village. They ended up buying three houses set under one long collapsed roof, where once a doctor, a carpenter, a weaver and a farmer had lived and worked. After a thorough restoration there are now four suites and one room with twin beds, all offering great comfort, some traditional-style furniture, a feeling of British elegance, luxurious Dutch bedspreads and a few Venetian touches in the decoration. The suites on the top floor are set under high, sloping ceilings; the others, on the ground floor, have the advantage of opening directly on to the terrace and the (small) garden. I was lucky to be among the very first guests to stay at The Merchant’s House. It was in the spring, and sitting out in the little garden, I wondered what was louder, the singing of the birds, the buzzing of the insects, or that little voice inside me that pleaded me to never leave.“
GREAT SMALL HOTELS IN GREECE | JACOLINE VINKE
Telegraph Travel | ‘Best Places to Visit’ & 3 top tavernas in ‘Best Places to Eat’ category, Corfu + 10 years top ten places to stay on Corfu [The Merchant’s House, restoration by Mark & Saskia]
“When you arrive, you’ll be privy to Corfu’s foremost-preserved historical village: Palea Perithia (Old Perithia). Decades ago, when tourism grew to demand waterfront resorts, residents of Old Perithia abandoned their mountain homes to cater to the opportunity. Houses were left with pots and pans in the kitchens and chairs strewn about for time to ravage. But that’s started to change. This 120+ building heritage site is in the midst of a rebirth. The Greek Ministry of Culture and Archaeological Department of Corfu have deemed it ‘A Designated Heritage Site with Elaborate Architecture in need of Special Public Protection.’ As such, and with the tireless efforts of hoteliers Mark Hendriksen and Saskia Bosch, the island’s ghost-town is getting its second wind. The aging stone-and-stucco facades are born anew – one address at a time.“
HOTEL BLOGGER
Mr Hudson Explores Dec 2016 | The Ionian Islands & discovering Old Perithia
“High up in the mountains of northeastern Corfu, the Merchant´s House Boutique B&B is a series of restored village houses dating back to the mid-1600s. The houses are located in Old Perithia, the oldest permanently inhabited village on the island, and at the time of their purchase by Londoners Mark and Saskia, were derelict and in need of some serious TLC. The village had a definite sense of character that appealed to the husband and wife team, who decided to restore the buildings in the hopes that locals and other homeowners would see the potential in this heritage protected village and follow suit. Consisting of 6 luxury suites each with its own private entrance, The B&B is the first official accommodation in the village but as restoration efforts continue, the plan is to open more houses and self-catering options.“
Mr. HUDSON EXPLORES
Wherever Magazine New York USA | Old Peritheia
Trivago 2016 | Inspirations from Mark & Saskia in Old Perithia
“…it’s a magical moment; you feel as though you’ve taken a step back in time. As your lungs take in the fresh mountain air, you get a pang of excitement. Things move a little slower here, but that’s part of Palea Perithia’s charm. And there’s an underlying energy here that can’t be denied. This place is authentic to its very core. That’s largely due to a couple of hotel managers who are bringing Old Perithia back to life with their every restoration, negotiation, and overnight stay. And there’s a lot that can be learned from this dynamic pair when it comes to the art of diplomacy and running a hotel. With tact and subtlety, a hotelier can become an agent of change, and the hotel can inspire the heart of a community.“
TRIVAGO
TrufflePig ‘Expertise in Travel’ | Old Perithia, Corfu Nov 2017
“I drove over to Palia Peritheia to try out that bed and breakfast, the Merchant’s House. Owners Mark and Saskia are a British/Dutch couple, who, while vacationing on Corfu, had made the trek to Palia Peritheia to see what a ghost village looked like. Far from ghostly, they thought, and ended up buying and restoring a 17th century ruined building. It is a lovely place to stay, with five elegant suites, a pleasant contrast to the charmingly unpolished surroundings. And as for the village, I too fell under its spell. I went for long walks, enjoyed several copious meals, and fell shamelessly behind schedule.“
TRUFFLEPIG
Tribe Magazine 2016 | The team’s best places on Corfu
Jamie MagazineJuly 2016 | Old Perithia [Jamie Oliver Magazine article by David J Constable]
Sunday Times Travel 2016 BEST of GREECE | Corfu, The Merchant’s House B&B in Old Perithia
Telegraph Travel The Durrells and ‘Where to find unspoiled Corfu’ | 2016
Libro D’Oro Kathemerini | Restoration of Old Perithia 2015
BA Highlife Magazine & Online | 2015 ‘Six ways to see the real Corfu’
Brigitte Magazine Germany | ed15 2015 Corfu ‘3 Best Places to Stay’
Press & Journal Travel | May’June Edition 2015
Kerkyra Simera – 2011 Two appearances in the newspaper about the restorations of three houses by Mark & Saskia
Old Perithia | FEATURED In ‘THE Greek Islands WTH JULIA BRADBURY’ ITV Jan 2020 EPISODE 2
Since Mark & Saskia began to bring the village of Old Perithia back to life in 2010 it has featured in numerous articles worldwide from leading newspapers, magazines, travel and guidebooks | old-perithia.com
Old Perithia Corfu GREECE Since the sale of The Merchant’s House B&B in 2021 Mark & Saskia retained the Land next to Skordilis Mansions along with the historic ‘look out’ now managed by Mark Hendriksen & Saskia Bosch along with the village maps and signs. The couple who revived the village and restored then managed The Merchant’s House B&B up until May 2021 [Mark & Saskia] achieved the no. 1 position on TripAdvisor B&Bs and Inns for over 6 years in a row… see their reviews here: https://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/Hotel_Review-g189458-d2705169-Reviews-The_Merchant_s_House-Corfu_Ionian_Islands.html
Background to the Present Day | Old Perithia Back in 2010 Mark & Saskia, an Anglo-Dutch couple began the restoration of 3 ruined houses in Old Perithia and created the island’s first boutique B&B, the island’s first step into eco-tourism and mountain village accommodation and the first time you could stay in the village for close to 75 years. They also spent much of their time bringing the village gently back to life. Today, with the village having become over 35% restored or in process, that journey continues in spite of the backdrop of the downturn in economy and more recently a pandemic. Of course, with all the press and pr that this brought, it has been important to try and ensure a balance between visitor numbers with the infrastructure and support.
The village is best suited to independent travellers to preserve its past, present and future – but inevitably there are some tours, albeit few (if any) support the village and its upkeep. So if you take a tour via hotels or independent companies, please ask them how they are actually supporting Old Perithia [vs the amount they may charge you].
Visiting Old Perthia is Free, and the tavernas are not expensive to eat in and enjoy, plus the bees and honey can be easily and you can even buy your own book on the official ‘History & self-guided tour of Old Perithia’ to do your own tour (for just €10/£10) direct from the publisher or at a local bookshop (Diaplasi) in Acharavi, located 20 minutes from Old Perithia. In doing so you can help the village remain clean, cared for and safe for future generations.
If you would kindly do a TripAdvisor review please consider that so far all the care for the village has been voluntary and at the cost of a few particular individuals for the past 12 years. Thank you and enjoy your visit, please keep the village litter free and use the facilities at the tavernas but do offer them a euro or just buy some water etc., as there are no public toilets!
Get updates delivered directly to your inbox.
Old Perithia 