Kanoni and Mouse Island | Corfu

Kanoni and Mouse Island (also known as Pontikonisi) are two famous and scenic locations in Corfu, offering picturesque views and historical significance. They are located close to the city of Corfu, and they are popular tourist destinations, known for their natural beauty and historical landmarks.

Kanoni:

Location:

• Kanoni is a peninsula located near the city of Corfu, on the southern side of the island. It is famous for its breathtaking views over the Ionian Sea and the small island of Pontikonisi (Mouse Island).
• The area is easily accessible from Corfu Town, making it a popular stop for visitors to enjoy its scenic beauty.

Panoramic Views:

• One of the main attractions of Kanoni is the stunning panoramic view it offers of Mouse Island and the Vlacherna Monastery, both of which are located in the distance across the water.
• From Kanoni, you can enjoy a perfect vantage point to photograph the iconic scene of the small chapel on Mouse Island, often seen in promotional images of Corfu.

Vlacherna Monastery:

• The Vlacherna Monastery is a Greek Orthodox monastery located at the southern tip of the Kanoni peninsula. The monastery is a historical landmark and one of the most photographed spots on the island.
• It was built in the 17th century and is accessible via a small causeway from the mainland. The structure is set against the backdrop of lush greenery and the sea.
• The monastery itself is small and simple, but it has a peaceful atmosphere and is dedicated to the Virgin Mary.

Aviation History:

• Kanoni is also famous for its historical connection to aviation. The area is close to the Corfu International Airport, and visitors often get a chance to see planes flying directly above them as they descend into the airport.
• The view of planes flying low over the sea and the buildings of Corfu Town is a unique experience, adding an extra element of interest for aviation enthusiasts.

Walking and Photography:

• Kanoni is a great place for a relaxed stroll, with plenty of cafes and restaurants offering outdoor seating with spectacular views.
• The area is ideal for photographers, as the views of Mouse Island, Vlacherna Monastery, and the surrounding coastline are among the most iconic images of Corfu.

Mouse Island (Pontikonisi):

Location:

• Mouse Island (Greek: Pontikonisi) is a small, lush, green island located just off the coast from Kanoni, visible from the mainland.
• It is one of the most iconic landmarks in Corfu, and its name is derived from the island's shape, which resembles a mouse.

The Chapel of Panagia Vlacherna:

• The Chapel of Panagia Vlacherna, a small 16th-century church, is located on Mouse Island. The chapel is the primary attraction on the island and is a religious site with historical significance.
• The chapel is dedicated to the Virgin Mary and is often surrounded by floral gardens, making it a serene and picturesque place.
• The island is often associated with pilgrimages and religious celebrations. Despite its small size, it has a peaceful and mystical atmosphere that attracts many visitors.

Access:

• The island is accessible by boat from Kanoni, with regular boat trips operating throughout the day. The boat ride takes only a few minutes, making it a very accessible destination.
• Visitors can take a short boat trip to the island to explore the chapel and enjoy the peaceful surroundings, or simply admire the island from Kanoni for a more distant view.

Natural Beauty:

• Mouse Island is covered with lush greenery and features a relatively untouched landscape. Visitors can enjoy a sense of tranquility as they walk around the island, taking in the natural beauty and picturesque surroundings.
• The island's relatively small size makes it an excellent spot for a short visit, offering the perfect escape from the more crowded parts of the island.

Mythology and History:

• According to Greek mythology, Mouse Island is connected to the story of Odysseus. Some versions of the myth suggest that the island was formed when Odysseus' ship was turned to stone by the gods as a punishment.
• Historically, the island has been home to several religious and monastic sites, with the chapel of Panagia Vlacherna being the most significant structure.

Things to Do and See in the Area:

Photograph the Views:

• One of the top activities in Kanoni is simply soaking in the view and taking pictures of Mouse Island and the Vlacherna Monastery from the viewpoint. The combination of the blue sea, greenery, and the chapel makes for an iconic image.

Visit Vlacherna Monastery:

• Walk to Vlacherna Monastery, either by foot or via the small bridge that connects the monastery to the mainland. The monastery offers a glimpse into the religious heritage of Corfu, and the views of the island and sea from the monastery are exceptional.

Take a Boat to Mouse Island:

• A boat ride to Mouse Island is a popular activity. Visitors can take a short, scenic boat ride from Kanoni, and enjoy the natural beauty of the island, as well as visit the Chapel of Panagia Vlacherna.

Relax at a Café:

• There are several cafes and restaurants around the Kanoni area that offer seating with views of the island and the surrounding sea. This is the perfect place to relax and enjoy a drink while taking in the beauty of the landscape.

Aviation Enthusiasts:

• Kanoni is one of the best spots in Corfu to watch planes land and take off from Corfu International Airport. The proximity of the airport to Kanoni means that visitors can witness aircraft flying very close to the area, providing a unique experience for aviation fans.

Conclusion:

Kanoni and Mouse Island are two of the most scenic and iconic locations in Corfu, offering a mix of natural beauty, historical significance, and peaceful surroundings. Whether you're looking for panoramic views, religious history, or just a relaxing day exploring, these destinations provide an excellent experience for visitors to the island.