somewhere between calabria and corfu, the blue really begin s… you are aware of a change in the heart of things: aware of the horizon begin ning to stain at the rim of the world: aware of islands coming out of the darkness to meet you’. so begin s lawrence durrell’s 1945 ode to corfu, prospero’s cell. even today, visitors to the island often arrive by sea, approaching from italy in the west of the greek mainland in the east.
in the early morning sunlight, the pastel-hued houses overlook corfu town’s historic port. they create a charming medley of slender levels interconnected by narrow alleyways. laundry hangs from every balcony, resembling vibrant festive bunting swaying in the breeze.
towering venetian mansions, bearing ancient coats of colourful paint softened by countless winters, give town visitors the sensation of stepping into a watercolour masterpiece.
corfu has rightfully earned its reputation as greece’s music capital
the island boasts a multitude of music associations, orchestras, bands, and a musical tradition dating back 400 years to the venetian era of the island.
at the heart of the town lies a broad tree-lined promenade known as the spianada. elegant french arcades reminiscent of rue de rivoli echo through the air. an intriguing british influence can be discovered on this grand square. it transforms into a cricket pitch during the summer, a unique feature as it’s the only operational sports field within a unesco world heritage site.
meanwhile , the corfiot countryside showcases a mournful beauty unparalleled across greece. it contrasts starkly with the stark barrenness of the aegean. drenched in brilliant white sunlight during summer, the island undergoes a sublime transformation thanks to winter rains. this causes lush greenery to blanket the inland valleys, which are thickly carpeted with wildflowers and adorned with gnarled olive trees, while dense groves of swaying cypresses punctuate the landscape.
in the sophisticated northeast, known as “kensington-on-sea,” you’ll find the finest real estate in greece. the imposing summer villa of the rothschild family anchors it. here, the luxury villa lifestyle reigns supreme. hillside properties are secluded amidst the landscape, boasting private infinity pools and awe-inspiring sea views. the enigmatic epirote mountains, crowned in snow, loom mysteriously in the east.
casius occupies the upper floor of a residence overlooking garitsa bay, commanding uninterrupted views across the water towards corfu’s old fortress and the historic skyline of corfu town. its elevated position places the apartment above the waterfront, allowing the sea and the city to remain visible from almost every principal room while maintaining a strong sense of privacy within one of the island’s most established residential neighbourhoods.
the apartment is accessed by either elevator or staircase and unfolds around a central living and dining area positioned to maximise its relationship with the bay. large openings draw natural light deep into the interiors and create a seamless connection with the surrounding terraces. the orientation allows sunlight to move through the apartment from both sides during the day, while the principal veranda frames wide views across the water, the fortress and the promenade that traces the shoreline below.
the interiors are bright and understated, with a layout that prioritises openness, natural light and outlook. living and dining spaces flow naturally towards the terraces, creating a continuous connection between the interior and exterior areas. adjacent to the main reception space, the kitchen also opens directly onto the veranda, allowing the apartment to function comfortably around its outdoor living areas throughout much of the year. the position above the bay captures the prevailing sea air, contributing to the sense of openness that characterises the property.
a separate hallway leads to the private accommodation, creating a clear distinction between the reception spaces and the sleeping quarters. three bedrooms are arranged along this wing, each benefiting from direct access to balconies and views towards either the bay or the surrounding greenery. throughout the apartment, the proportions remain practical and well balanced, with large openings reinforcing the connection to the setting beyond.
a wooden staircase rises to the attic level, where the architecture takes on a more intimate character beneath pitched ceilings and roof windows. this upper floor currently provides additional living and sleeping accommodation, with the flexibility to function as guest quarters, a studio or further bedrooms depending on requirements. natural light enters from multiple directions, creating a distinct atmosphere while remaining connected to the main residence below.
large double-glazed openings maintain uninterrupted views while ensuring year-round comfort. central heating and air conditioning support permanent living, making the property equally suited as a primary residence or a base in corfu throughout all seasons.
one of the apartment’s defining qualities is its immediate relationship with garitsa bay and corfu town. the waterfront promenade, cafés and restaurants are reached within moments on foot, while the historic centre unfolds gradually along the shoreline beyond. from its elevated position, the apartment remains closely connected to the life of the bay while retaining a sense of calm above it, with the sea and the fortress providing a constant backdrop throughout the day.
