Kassiopi is one of the most beautiful and well known resorts in Corfu, set in a pretty location, where visitors return year after year. It is backed by Mount Pantokrator, which is strewn with flowers in the spring, and boasts a picture-postcard harbour flanked by shingle coves and pebbly beaches. Despite recent tourist development, it retains all the atmosphere of a picturesque fishing village. Located approximately 36km north of Corfu town and the airport, the resort has excellent amenities and really does have something for everyone. The Albanian coast is just 2 miles away, and on a clear day the poignantly bleak, concrete tower blocks of the Albanian town of Saranda, with snow-capped mountains beyond, can be seen from across the channel. Like much of Corfu, the area surrounding Kassiopi is covered in trees and olive groves, and consequently very green. It’s picturesque amphitheatre shaped port, it’s well preserved church, it’s cosmopolitan finesse, it’s deep blue and hospitable shores, the sight of the huge Byzantine fortress that looms over the village as well as the varied and affordable choices of bars and restaurants will enchant it’s visitors. Most of the accommodation is self catering apartments, small family run hotels and luxurious villas situated all around the village. You can explore the coast by boat, go pony trekking, hire car or bikes and mopeds, or walk along the many lanes leading into the beautiful surroundings. Ancient Kassiopi was founded in 281 BC by residents of the Epirot town of the same name, who were brought here by King Pyrros when he captured the island. The name (Kassion Oro) derives from the Temple of Kassios Zeus, which was built in the area in a prominent position.. The temple no longer exists but is thought to have occupied the site of the Church of the Blessed Virgin Kassiopitras. The oldest fortress on the island is found in Kassiopi, which was built by the Romans, and is an indication of the strategic importance of the site. The fortress was demolished by the Venetians, and the ruins which stand today belong to the castle which was later built on the site.