The hills in the south and west drop towards the north-west shore, forming a series of narrow valleys. The rivers and streams which run down these valleys have contributed to the evolution of a wetlands habitat and idyllic countryside. Two rivers, the Tyflos and the Agnos flow all year and join the sea at Sidari and Astrakeri respectively. On the horizon are the Diapontian Islands.

Astrakeri is a bay with a quiet beach and a few small tavernas. On May Day, the Karousades Cultural Society puts on an unusual festival on the seashore. Karousades, a village of some 1300 inhabitants, was established in 20 BC by the Karousses, refugees from the Pontian region of the Black Sea. During the Byzantine period, it was a command post with a well developed economy. In 1453, the Theotokis family settled in the village, establishing a great dynasty which went on to play a leading role in the economic and political life of the island. Their grand mansion, built in 1500, is preserved today.

Sidari is a bustling tourist resort. Just to the east of Sidari's main street is the so-called Canal d'Amour rock formation. Originally a sea arch that has long since collapsed, it attracts many visitors. Legend has it that if you swim through the arch, all your romantic dreams will come true. To the west is the village of Peroulades. From here a road leads to the beach at Cape Drastis. This cove is flanked on both sides by wind hewn cliffs. The north-western shores feature sandy, level shorelines and clear open sea. Agios Stefanos, Agia Pelagia and Arillas are all excellent for swimming, as well as wind surfing when the weather permits.

Off the north-west coast lie the Diapontian Islands. Of the five islands only Erikousa, Mathraki and Othoni are inhabited. Most people visit on day trips from Agios Stefanos or Sidari, although there is a daily ferry service from Corfu Town.

The most northerly resort on the west coast is Arillas. Its bay has an attractive backdrop of forested hills. Afionas is a peninsula which provides a fantastic view of the bay at Agios Giorgos. The village of Afionas was first inhabited in the 6th century BC. Afionas also has magnificent views of the Diapontian Islands and the Gravia islets nearer to shore. The latter are reputedly the petrified remains of Odysseus' ships. Agios Giorgos (Pagi) beach - 3 km of golden sand - sweeps around the bay of the same name. The Maestros wind makes it a haven for water sports enthusiasts. Pagi itself is a pretty village which managed to avoid being raided by pirates and barbarians, and now many of its attractive old houses have been restored to accommodate tourists. From here there is a road which passes through some lovely areas on the way to the village of Vistonas.

Along the road to Makrades and Krini there are some wonderful views and it is from Krini that you can access Angelokastro, the ruins of is a 13th century Byzantine fortress. This is where the residents of Paleokastitsa took refuge from attackers. The fortress played a key role in the defence of the island for centuries, as it had a clear view of the west coast and any potential invaders. Until its abandonment during Venetian times, the fortress was never taken by force. The view from the summit is breath-taking.

Overlooking Paleokastritsa is Lakones, a picturesque village with narrow streets. Close by is the famed Bella Vista, which they say has the best view in the Mediterranean. Paleokastritsa itself is located about 25 kilometres from Corfu Town. It consists of two large peninsulas and five coves. With its green, mountain backdrop it is an exceptionally beautiful spot. It is also Corfu's prime diving location. Perched on the rocky northern promontory is the Monastery of the Blessed Virgin Mary, which was founded in 1225. The building which exists today is later, and houses a museum with Byzantine and post-Byzantine icons. Its picturesque bell-tower must be one of the most photographed sights in Corfu.