Paxí

Area of island: 19 sq. km/7.5 sq. mi

Altitude: 247m/810ft

Population: 2,700

Chief place: Paxí (Gáios)

Paxí is a charming little island to the south of Corfu covered with subtropical vegetation, with beautiful beaches and good diving grounds.

The inhabitants live mainly by farming (the local olive oil is highly esteemed) and fishing.

On two islets lying off the principal port, Paxí or Gáios (pop. 500), are a Venetian fort and the former monastery of the Panayía (pilgrimage on August 15th).

On the south coast is the Ypapantí sea-cave (seals). Off the southeast coast of Paxí are the islets of Mongonísi (causeway) and Kaltsonísi.

Regular weekly service from and to Patras (cars carried); from and to Corfu (Kérkyra), several times daily (two and a half hours).

If you happen to be in Paxi on August 15, you'll want to follow the faithful who gather at the Monastery of Panagia (Moní Panayiás). The festivities last all day and all night, winding up in Gáios with dancing in the main square.