Mathraki is a secluded island, off the map for most tourists. It offers stunning beaches with crystal clear water and an amazing natural background.
It belongs to the group of islands called Diapontia along with Erikousa, Othoni and Ereikoussa. It is accessible by boat three times a week during summer from Corfu Town, Sidari and Agios Stefanos.
Portello Beach
Located on the eastern side of Mathraki, Portello Beach is the only sandy beach on this small island. Its stunning waters and lush surroundings make it an ideal place to relax. Its rocky background also provides some privacy and isolation, making it an excellent choice for visitors who want to escape from the crowds.
The southwestern area of the island is home to Apidies Beach. This rocky beach can be reached on foot from Chorio and offers gorgeous views of the sea. The water here is clear and clean, and the pebbles give it a relaxing ambiance.
The best time to visit Portobello Beach is during the summer months, when the weather is warm and sunny. However, the area is a beautiful destination all year round. During the winter, visitors can enjoy brisk walks along the beach and stunning sunsets. There are a number of great accommodations near Portobello Beach, including the Dakota Edinburgh and The Parliament House Hotel.
Fyki Beach
On the island’s northernmost coast is Fyki Beach, a long cove with fine pebbles and gently shelving waters backed by lush vegetation. It can get busy in high season but is still a great spot to bathe and sunbathe.
Another of the most beautiful beaches on the island, Agouridi Beach is a small cove with both sand and pebbles, whose rocky backdrop offers some isolation. The water is crystal clear and the beach has a number of tavernas.
In the west of the island are two neighboring beaches, both offering a mix of sand and fine shingle against a dramatic backdrop. Depending on your energy levels, you can pitch camp here and spend the day exploring shallow caves or taking out a pedalo or banana boat. There are also a few cafés and restaurants. Accommodation is limited to a few traditional studios and rooms with simple facilities, but these are enough for the few visitors that come to this remote place.
Kontrakas Beach
The smallest of the Diapontia islands, Mathraki is a favourite for those who enjoy secluded holidays. It is a green island full of scenic trails and small locations with sandy beaches. The main port of the island is called Plakes and is the perfect place to live a laidback lifestyle.
There are many rocky beaches on the island as well, and some of them have a very natural and special backdrop. The beach of Fiki, for instance, has a beautiful cove with crystal clear water, which makes it a wonderful destination to relax in privacy.
The nymph Calypso’s Cave on the beach of Aspi Ammos is also worth visiting, where you can admire the emerald waters of the sea and the mysterious rocks around it. The nymph Calypso was believed to have held Odysseus captive for seven years in the cave!
Paralia Portelo
A beach within the Burela settlement with crystal turquoise water and pure golden fine sand. It is suitable for a variety of people, including lonely travellers and relaxation getaway lovers. It is partially crowded during the high season.
A sand and pebbles beach located right next to the old castle. It has a beautiful view of the surrounding landscape. It is a great choice for those who like to swim close to the shops and cafe-bars of Monemvasia.
A small beach that is ideal for families with children, offering easy access to the sea and sand. It is sheltered from winds except northerly ones. It is also a good place for snorkelling, diving, and swimming. The waters are shallow and warm, and the beach has a number of sunbeds, chairs, and umbrellas. There is also a tavern, Taki’s, which serves delicious Greek dishes. This beach is a favourite among the locals. It is very close to the centre of Gytheio and offers a variety of activities such as snorkelling, diving, and hiking together with a snack bar.