RODA
Area: Corfu
Country: Greece


Location:
On N coast of Corfu, 2 miles from neighbouring resort of Acharavi. 27 miles NW of Corfu Town and airport.

Telephone code from UK:
30 26630

Position:
On W end of huge horseshoe-shaped bay, on gently sloping ground rising to steep mountains.

Description:
Three-quarters of a mile long, Roda forms a triangle with the longer seafront section tapering to a point at the crossroads where the roads from Sidari, Acharavi and Corfu Town meet. Formerly a small fishing village, the resort retains some old buildings and narrow streets in the centre but is now rather overwhelmed by newer tourist developments. It lies almost entirely on the coast side of the main road _ a distinct advantage over neighbouring Acharavi, although Roda's beach is inferior. Mosquitoes can be a problem.

Suitability:
Families and couples of most ages. Teenagers are catered for, but there are livelier resorts elsewhere on the island.

Accommodation:
Lots of basic to middle-market hotels and apartments, mainly small and family owned; one big quality complex at N end of village.

Shopping:
Essential minimarkets and the usual beach tack, some local food produce, cheap jewellery from the mainland and a couple of leather and wood-carving shops.

Beach:
500 yds of narrow sandy beach directly in front of Roda turning into a pebble beach towards Acharavi. The water is shallow for a long way and so calm it is almost lake-like, so safe for children.

Entertainments:
Daytime: beach and water sports; long beach walks. Exploring local villages (by car or bike). Nightlife: three discos and a plethora of music bars open until the early hours.

Eating:
Tavernas on every corner offering a few Greek dishes among the egg and chips.

Public-transport:
Cheap, reliable bus service operates four times a day to Corfu Town in high season. Taxi rank on main high street _ agree price before entering the cab; if ordering a taxi from elsewhere, it is usual to be charged for getting to the pick-up point as well as the fare.

Local-excursions:
Half day: Lake Adinioti near Kassiopi. Full day: boat trips to Othoni, Erikoussa and Mathraki; various coach trips around the island; exploring mountain villages and Mt Pantokratoras, highest peak on island. See also Corfu Town.