Corfu, the Emerald Isle of Greece’s Ionian islands, has welcomed travellers since the 14^th century. Lushly dotted with the greenery of cypress trees and olive groves, its nearly 220km of coastline and stunning beaches have been the draw for a more recent wave of visitors who have been falling in love with its charms since the 1950s.

Boasting approximately 60 beaches, plus some tiny hidden coves, escaping the crowds to find Corfu’s quietest beaches is key to a blissfully tranquil break on this picture-postcard island escape. While the summer months see large numbers descend on idyllic coastal stretches that are easy to reach by car, it is Corfu’s more secluded beaches that will lift spirits, inspire, and make everyday stresses disappear.

Nestled on the island’s coveted northeast coast, at the base of majestic Mount Pantokrator and in arguably the best area in Corfu, at Ultima Corfu you will have the exquisite Kaminaki Beach on your doorstep. However, the villa’s private jetty will provide a launch pad to explore Corfu’s best beaches and coves by boat. So, aboard your vessel, set sail on the crystal-clear waters to some of its most beautiful beaches.

Passing the shrines of the Blue Caves, dock at Agni Beach, a small, pebbled bay, surrounded by cypress trees where in its three traditional tavernas famous faces mix with village locals. Although aqua shoes are needed for its small pebbles, they reward in turn with waters made even bluer. Once little known, a small number of close-by villas lend a quiet but convivial atmosphere. A short distance further along the coast find Kalami, which, although approachable by car and growing in popularity, is still a favourite of those in the know, and also the site of the animal-loving Durrell family’s famous house.

Heading north of Agios Stefanos, begin with a stop at Akoli Beach, its name meaning bottomless, and referring to the nearby lake that it was once connected to. Avoid the difficult forest trek to reach the beach in comfort and style instead, docking to swim in its mesmerizing waters, taking a picnic or barbecue with you if the tavernas at Agni have not sated your appetite.

Moments away you might be the only visitors to Kako Kefali Beach. Here, protected by the rocky cliffs, find a pristine escape, and after a pause to unwind and relax continue just a short distance further north to the small beaches that trace the northeast coastline. Sail from Tzoufaka to Vouvalomantria, where you will spy its small coastal tower, and on to Vrachli Beach. Snorkel and dive, and delight in the water’s teaming wildlife, without needing to brave the hike to visit these difficult-to-reach beaches by road. You can navigate this stretch of coast in under an hour, but you will want to dock once immersed in the resplendent natural beauty.

For sandy beach lovers Corfu’s west coast is easily accessible by car. A 40-minute drive across the heart of the island will whisk you through its verdant centre and give your sea legs a rest. Away from the relative bustle of Paleokastritsa Beach, Chomis Beach – known also as Paradise Beach – and Rovinia Beach will both take your breath away. Although you will need to tackle the final approach on foot, the soft white sand scattered with small, polished pebbles will be the pay off, with the west coast’s cooler waters still inviting in all their turquoise glory.

From shimmering shingles to Corfu’s best sandy beaches, and with both hidden and amenity-rich destinations at your fingertips, Ultima Corfu is an idyllic home-from-home from where you can explore the island’s breathtaking and often dramatic coastline. Beyond the villa’s own luxurious surroundings and hypnotic 180-degree views, discover the best beaches in Corfu, and find out why this Ionian jewel of an island has left visitors awe-struck for decades, if not centuries.