This historic village of Old Perithia or Palaia Peritheia, is one of Corfu´s most admired places to visit, situated in the attractive north east corner of the island, just below Mount Pantokrator. It is a deserted village located high up, off the main road between Kassiopi and Acharavi.
It is the oldest permanently inhabited settlement in Corfu, dating back to the 14th century. There are only 130 houses, built entirely by hand, some of which have fallen into ruins and many others are under restoration. Most of Perithia’s houses now stand empty and abandoned, broken down shutters at the windows and crumbling stone walls, while a bright blue sky shines through holes in the roofs. The village with its cobbled streets and ancient houses is encircled by eight churches and set amidst a beautiful countryside. Distinctive and picturesque, Old Perithia is designated as an area of outstanding natural beauty and is a protected heritage site where you can come across this deserted village only to find a few sheep and a couple of Tavernas in the middle.
This is a place where you can enjoy a great day out, step back in time, walk in the mountains or just relax in one of the four Taverna’s and try some home cooked food. You can also visit the village by car or on foot, and do a self-guided tour as there are good maps to guide you. As you sit in the square overlooking the terrace gardens and the now empty houses, the owner of the Tavernas will give you an insight to Perithias past while you enjoy a sunny and warm day and a cool breeze rustling through the poplar trees and grapevines above us. Once you found your way up to Old Perithia you shouldn’t miss out on the Loutses Cave Corfu.
Follow the main coastal road out of Kassiopi, continue on this road until you reach the EKO petrol service station which will be on your left and the General tourist office will be on your right. You will see the signposts for Loutses and Old Perithia. The turning is on your left immediately after the service station. Follow the road up to New Perithia, turn left at the fork in the road, and go through the new village. Continue on this road up the mountain to Old Perithia, you will pass through Loutses on your way.