Lakones Village & Bella Vista
Discover Lakones Village & Bella Vista, offering breathtaking panoramic views of Paleokastritsa's stunning coastline. Explore ancient charm and histor...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds & heat
Lakones Village & Bella Vista
Best Time
Beat the crowds & heat
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Lakones Village & Bella Vista, offering breathtaking panoramic views of Paleokastritsa's stunning coastline. Explore ancient charm and historic castles.
"One of the best views I'd seen on the whole of Corfu!"
🚗 Drive Carefully on Narrow Roads
Roads are narrow and winding. Visit during quiet hours for easier navigation and parking.
☕ Enjoy Coffee with a View
Stop at Bella Vista for coffee and delicious orange cake while soaking in the scenery.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Bella Vista Viewpoint
Lakones Village
Unparalleled panoramic views of Paleokastritsa's turquoise bays and lush coastline. A must-see!
Lakones Village Charm
Lakones Village
Wander through ancient, stone-paved streets of this charming traditional village.
Angelokastro
Near Lakones Village
Explore this Byzantine castle perched atop a rocky outcrop for history and stunning vistas.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating Narrow Roads
Timing is Key for Views & Parking
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Drive Carefully on Narrow Roads
Roads are narrow and winding. Visit during quiet hours for easier navigation and parking.
☕ Enjoy Coffee with a View
Stop at Bella Vista for coffee and delicious orange cake while soaking in the scenery.
Palaiokastritsa to Bella vista
📸 Capture Iconic Views
The panoramic vistas of Paleokastritsa are incredibly photogenic. Don't miss them!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Explore the village's stone paths and nearby Angelokastro with ease. :athletic_shoe:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Drive Carefully on Narrow Roads
Roads are narrow and winding. Visit during quiet hours for easier navigation and parking.
☕ Enjoy Coffee with a View
Stop at Bella Vista for coffee and delicious orange cake while soaking in the scenery.
📸 Capture Iconic Views
The panoramic vistas of Paleokastritsa are incredibly photogenic. Don't miss them!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Explore the village's stone paths and nearby Angelokastro with ease. :athletic_shoe:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the breathtaking, unparalleled views from Bella Vista, calling it one of the best on Corfu. The charming village of Lakones and the nearby Angelokastro also receive high marks. However, some find the narrow, winding roads challenging, and a few reviews mention less-than-ideal service or issues with wasps at the viewpoint cafe during busy periods.
"During our two-day vacation, we saw magnificent views of the places we visited. However, the roads are quite narrow. It's best to go during quiet hours; traveling during busy times can be challenging. The scenery is stunning."
Alper Öner
"One of the best views I'd seen on the whole of Corfu! These were easily 10 years ago I think! Hoping to get back in early 2026 and stay very close to here rather than Sidari!"
Mr Kane!
"Amazing views of Paleokastritsa and Monastery of Paleokastritsa. I recommend to stop by and drink a coffee or eat something watching this wonder of nature. Plus the owner is very nice 😉
We were here around 9 am and the parking was empty. When we get back from Angelokastro around 12 am parking was full."
Magdalena Baranowska
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can drive your own car or rent one. The drive takes about 40-50 minutes. Alternatively, you can take a bus to Paleokastritsa and then walk up to Lakones Village and Bella Vista, which is about a 40-minute uphill hike.
Yes, the roads are very narrow and winding, especially as you ascend. It's best to drive cautiously and during less busy times. Many visitors find it challenging but rewarding.
Buses go to Paleokastritsa. From there, it's a walk up to Lakones Village and Bella Vista. Check local bus schedules for the most up-to-date information.
Driving is the most convenient way to reach Lakones Village and Bella Vista, offering flexibility. However, be prepared for narrow, winding roads.
Yes, it's possible to walk from Paleokastritsa to Bella Vista, but it's a steep, approximately 40-minute uphill trek. Consider the heat and your fitness level.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no entrance fees to visit the Bella Vista viewpoint itself. You can enjoy the stunning views for free.
Bella Vista is an outdoor viewpoint, so it's accessible at any time. However, the associated cafe/restaurant has its own operating hours, typically during daylight.
Lakones Village is a public area, so there are no entrance fees to wander through its charming streets.
While the view is free, many visitors choose to stop at the cafe at Bella Vista for a drink or snack, which incurs a cost.
Early mornings, around 9 AM, are ideal for fewer crowds and easier parking. Visiting during 'quiet hours' is generally recommended over peak times.
📸 📸 Photography
The Bella Vista viewpoint offers the most iconic shots of Paleokastritsa. Also, explore the narrow village streets for charming, traditional photos.
Early morning light provides soft, beautiful illumination for photos. Late afternoon can also offer lovely golden hour light.
Drone regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local rules and regulations before flying a drone in the area to ensure compliance.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views. A standard zoom lens will also be versatile for village shots.
The sweeping panorama of the Paleokastritsa coastline from Bella Vista is the main attraction. Don't forget to capture the traditional architecture of Lakones Village too.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the Bella Vista cafe is highly recommended for its coffee, delicious orange cake, and stunning views. Other tavernas in the village offer local cuisine.
Reviewers rave about the orange cake at Bella Vista. Coffee is also a popular choice to enjoy while taking in the scenery.
Yes, Lakones Village and the surrounding areas offer traditional Greek tavernas where you can enjoy local dishes.
Most traditional Greek tavernas will offer vegetarian options like Greek salad, moussaka (sometimes), and various vegetable dishes.
Prices at Bella Vista are reasonable for the view and quality, especially for coffee and cake. Other tavernas offer a range of prices typical for tourist areas.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the village itself is charming for a stroll, the main attraction is the viewpoint. Pack snacks and drinks, as options might be limited outside the main cafe. A visit to the nearby Angelokastro might be too strenuous for very young children due to the climb, but older kids might enjoy exploring the historical ruins.
🚗 Road Trip Enthusiasts
Be prepared for steep inclines and sharp bends. It's recommended to drive during daylight hours and avoid peak times to minimize stress from oncoming traffic. The journey itself is as much a part of the adventure as the destination, offering incredible photo opportunities along the way.
📸 Photography Lovers
Beyond the main viewpoint, the traditional stone architecture and narrow streets of Lakones Village offer ample opportunities for charming, atmospheric shots. The nearby Angelokastro also provides dramatic perspectives and historical elements to photograph.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of Bella Vista
The experience at Bella Vista can be enhanced by understanding the best times to visit. Early mornings are often lauded for their tranquility and soft light, making it ideal for photography and a peaceful start to the day. Arriving around 9 AM can help you secure a good spot and enjoy the view before the main rush of tourists.
While the view is the main draw, the hospitality at the cafe has also been noted. Some reviewers mention the owner being very nice, contributing to a welcoming atmosphere. However, it's worth noting that during peak times, service might be slower, and the presence of wasps can sometimes be an issue on the terrace.
Exploring Lakones Village
This village serves as the gateway to the Bella Vista viewpoint and is also a starting point for exploring other nearby attractions. The drive up to Lakones is an adventure in itself, with hairpin turns and dramatic cliffside scenery. It's a place where you can truly slow down, soak in the atmosphere, and appreciate the simple beauty of island living.
Beyond the main viewpoint, Lakones offers a more authentic experience of Corfu. It's a place to get lost (in a good way!), discover hidden corners, and interact with the local culture. The contrast between the bustling beaches of Paleokastritsa below and the serene village above is striking and adds to its unique appeal.
The Majesty of Angelokastro
Reaching Angelokastro involves a climb, but the effort is richly rewarded. From its ramparts, you can gaze out over the Ionian Sea, the coastline of Paleokastritsa, and the surrounding mountainous landscape. The castle itself is a fascinating ruin, with remnants of its walls, chapels, and cisterns whispering tales of its strategic past.
Visiting Angelokastro is highly recommended for history buffs and anyone seeking breathtaking vistas. It complements the experience of visiting Lakones and Bella Vista by adding a historical dimension and another incredible viewpoint to your itinerary. Remember to wear sturdy shoes for the climb and bring water, especially during warmer months.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit