Paxos (Paxoi) is the smallest of the “large” islands, just 25 sq. km. In area and with 46km of coastline. It lies just 7 km. South of Corfu and it’s history if closely linked with that of it’s neighbour. According to one myth the two islands were originally joined together and rent asunder by a blow from the trident of the sea-god Poseidon.

Capital and main harbour of the island is Gaios (on the southeast side), built in the creek of a closed bay protected by the richly wooded islets of Aghios Nikolaos and Panaghia. In summertime it is brimming with yachts and other seacraft.

Gaios has a distinctive local colour and ambience, exerting a powerful fascination. Of particular interest are the church of the Holy Apostles (Aghii Apostoli), with important religious paintings, and the monastery of the Virgin on the islet of Panaghia. On the islet of Aghios Nikolaos is a Venetian castle (1423) and beside it a windmill of the same period. Notable too is the Folklore Museum, which is housed in a seventeenth-century building.

Antipaxi, an island covered in vineyards, lies 3 n.m. from Paxi. It has wonderful beaches with transparent aquamarine waters and a somewhat exotic charm. Vrika and Voudomi are the most popular beaches, whereas the pebble beaches of Rodovani and Sarakiniko are usually deserted.