In the traditional settlement of Agios Matthaios, in the Vrionata district, is the two-story stone house Casa Vrioni. It was built in the early 1900s to house the family of grandfather Spyros Vrionis.
It consists of two independent houses, one on the ground floor (“papa”) and one on the first floor (“mama”), next to the square at the church of Agios Matthaios, with a wonderful view of the surrounding villages. It was recently renovated by craftsmen who know the art of stone and wood, to meet the needs of modern hospitality.
House Mama (1st floor)
This is an apartment with an attic and can accommodate up to 4 people. It consists of a living room with kitchen, room 1, room 2 (in the attic) and a bathroom. It has all the electrical appliances in order to provide a comfortable stay. Access is via an external staircase.
House papa (ground floor – To open soon)
It is a studio that can accommodate 2-3 people. It has a living room with a sofa that turns into a bed and a raised loft with a double bed.
The house is under construction and is expected to be completed in the near future.
Information about the area
Location
Agios Matthaios is a small town in southwestern Corfu. It is located on the slope of Mount Gamilios (463 m). It is approximately 22 km south of Corfu Town. It has been classified as a traditional settlement.
Tour of the neighborhood and the village market
The Casa Vrioni residence is located very close to the church of Agios Matthaios. The area in front of the church is also the village square, where local celebrations and events take place. With the area as a base, the visitor can explore the uphill alleys with the traditional colorful houses with Venetian architecture. The alleys lead to the higher areas of the village, from where one can admire the impressive view. Going down the main road that passes through the settlement with the large plane tree, the visitor can do his shopping in supermarkets, enjoy local cuisine in taverns, drink his coffee or drink in the nice bars.
Sightseeing
Some of the most important sights you should visit or include in your schedule:
1) The Monastery of Pantokrator, in a prominent position on Mount Gamilio, where the festival of the Transfiguration is celebrated on August 6.
2) The Cave of Grava on Mount Gamilio. It is a cave with rich decoration in its main part and with Paleolithic and Neolithic findings that, according to the residents, communicates with the sea (“Hole of Pelaeus”).
3) The Gardiki Fortress, an octagonal castle with eight towers and three gates, dating back to the 13th century and has ancient architectural members built into the walls. According to mythology, on Mount Gamilio, where the settlement is located, Alkinoos, king of the Phaeacians of Scheria (Corfu), got married.
Beaches near Agios Matthaios
The traditional settlement of Agios Matthaios is located within walking distance of the beach of Halikounas, a 3 km wide strip of sand, which extends in front of the Korissia lagoon, a very important wetland. The entire area is included in the Natura 2000 network. A choice that is considered a paradise for kite surfing enthusiasts.
Nearby beaches to the settlement of Agios Matthaios with great natural beauty are Paramonas and Prasoudi.
Access to Agios Matthaios
The visitor can reach the traditional settlement of Agios Mattheos in the following ways: Coming from the city of Corfu, he can choose either the “mountain” route (via the settlements of Kynopiastes, Agios Gordis Panorama, Vouniatades), or the “coastal” route (Perama, Benitses, Moraitika). Whichever route is chosen, the natural beauty compensates the visitor. Coming from the port of Lefkimmi (50’ drive from Igoumenitsa), he reaches his destination in less than half an hour (25 km).