Greece: Corfu & Meteora

From Shimmering Sea Caves to Sky-High Monasteries: My Two Favorite Places in Greece

When I booked my recent trip to Greece, I thought I had everything planned perfectly—until I realized I had a major scheduling conflict: Meteora or Rhodes? Both are UNESCO World Heritage sites, both stunning in their own right, but my heart had been quietly leaning toward Meteora for a while. My research confirmed what I suspected: while both destinations are equally rich in history and beauty, Meteora has that wow factor—especially for someone like me who’s passionate about photography.


But before reaching the stone spires of Meteora, I returned to a Greek island that has long held a special place in my heart: Corfu

Corfu: From Sea to Sky in Paleokastritsa


This wasn’t my first visit to Corfu. On my previous trip, I had explored Corfu Town, the Old Fortress, Mon Repos Estate, and taken a brief dip at Paleokastritsa Beach. But this time, I wanted to really get to know Paleokastritsa. 

And it didn’t disappoint.

I started at sea level, venturing into the sea caves—some of the most mesmerizing I’ve ever seen. The water shimmered in a spectrum of blues that felt almost unreal—turquoise, teal, sapphire—each wave catching the light in a different way. I was speechless.


Then, I made the exhilarating drive up winding roads to the Paleokastritsa Monastery, perched high above the coastline. From the top, I could look down at the beach where I’d begun the day. It was a surreal moment—watching the journey of the sea give way to the sky. The monastery itself was peaceful and picturesque, and the viewpoint beside it offered one of the best panoramic views on the island.


Corfu reminded me that no matter how many times you visit a place, there’s always more to discover.


Meteora: Where Heaven Meets Earth

After Corfu, I was off to Meteora—one of the most visually dramatic places I’ve ever visited. The decision between Meteora and Rhodes wasn’t easy, but the moment I arrived, I knew I’d made the right choice.


Right away, I connected with new friends who introduced me to someone managing one of Kalambaka’s top restaurants: Meteoron Panorama. Over lunch, I was treated to a fusion of local flavors and modern techniques—made even more unforgettable by the restaurant’s jaw-dropping view of the Meteora rock formations.


Fueled and inspired, I went straight into monastery mode. My first stop was St. Nicholas. The view from the top was incredible, and inside I found frescoes painted by Greek masters who influenced El Greco.


That evening, I took a sunset tour. Early on, I was happily photographing the dramatic cloud formations—but those same clouds ended up hiding the famous Meteora sunset. Disappointing? A bit. But the atmosphere was still magical, and that’s the beauty of travel—it doesn’t always go as planned, but it always gives you something unexpected.


The next day, I went full explorer and visited five monasteries

  • Varlaam – the largest one I saw, with hundreds of steps, gardens, a chapel filled with frescoes, a kitchen, and even a wine cellar. The view? Absolutely worth the effort.
  • Holy Trinity – perched on a steep cliff, dramatic and awe-inspiring.
  • Roussanou – a serene nunnery with vibrant gardens and easy access via a small bridge.
  • St. Stephen’s – welcoming and peaceful.
  • I also took a short hike to the hermit caves, where centuries ago, monks sought isolation and spiritual clarity.


Meteora is more than a photo destination—though it’s certainly a paradise for photographers. It’s a place that makes you feel something deeper: reverence, stillness, and the quiet power of the natural world.


Travel Tips for Corfu & Meteora

✦ Visiting Corfu & Paleokastritsa:

  • 🚗 Rent a car: Paleokastritsa’s best spots—from the beach to the monastery—are scattered and best reached by car. Be ready for narrow, winding mountain roads.
  • 🛶 Explore the sea caves: Join a small boat tour or rent a paddle boat. The morning light brings out the clearest shades of blue.
  • ⛪ Dress respectfully: Modest dress is required at the Paleokastritsa Monastery. Shoulders and knees should be covered.
  • 🏖️ Give it time: Paleokastritsa is more than just a beach. Stay long enough to explore both the coast and the cliffs.


✦ Visiting Meteora:

  • 🛤️ Getting there: Trains run from Athens to Kalambaka (approx. 4–5 hours). A car gives you flexibility to explore at your own pace.
  • 🏛️ Monastery etiquette: Modest clothing is required. Women are often asked to wear skirts (available at entrances). Men should avoid shorts.
  • 🥾 Bring good walking shoes: Varlaam and Holy Trinity involve significant stair climbs.
  • 📷 Best light for photos: Golden hour and early morning offer the most dramatic lighting. Be prepared for variable weather—it changes quickly!
  • 🍽️ Eat at Meteoron Panorama: Great food with unbeatable views. It’s a must.


Whether you’re standing in the sea caves of Corfu or on the cliffs of Meteora, Greece has a way of taking your breath away. And just when you think it’s given you all it has, it surprises you again. 

PHOTO GALLERY

Paleokastrista 











Meteora









NOTE: All photos by the author


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