The Merchant's House

Location: Central & Northern Greece | Greece

A crumbling Venetian building was lovingly transformed into this boutique hotel by proud owners Saskia and Mark, who have miraculously preserved the original features while creating an elegant bolt-hole in the ancient village of Palea Perithia.
Perfect forCouples who prefer to side-line seafront luxury hotels and opt instead for a quiet rural retreat, dripping in history.
In the know
  • 17th century Venetian building
  • Warm service and friendly hotel owners
  • Tucked away in the lesser-known interior of Corfu
Visit in May to catch sight of the fireflies down by the coves in Corfu.

Recommended for...

  • Peace & Quiet
  • Secret / In the Know
  • Setting & Views
  • Guesthouse or Inn

Hotel Overview

Sense of place

On the slopes of Mount Pandokrator in the heritage-listed village of Palea Perithia, in north-eastern Corfu. It is the oldest inhabited settlement on the island, with roots dating way back to 700BC. Today the village is all dusty cobbled streets, centuries-old houses and churches, encircled by untamed countryside.

Rooms at The Merchant's House

There are just a handful of guestrooms at The Merchant’s House, divided into two categories: garden-level suites, which open onto the lawn; and upper suites, which feature beamed ceilings. All have custom-made Cretan furnishings, coffee-making machines, mini-bars, iPod docks and WiFi. Go for suite two for views to the east and the west.

Food and drink

Wake up to a delicious breakfast on the lawn, and choose from freshly baked bread, eggs, yoghurt and cereals, served with homemade compotes. For all other meals, there are some lovely family-run tavernas in Perithia, so take your pick! Gabriel’s Steps is right next to the hotel, while Old Perithia Taverna is set on pretty gardens overlooking the St. Spyridon church.

Facilities

Forget about fancy flourishes like gyms and spas here: it’s all about getting back to nature and enjoying the authentic culture and rugged scenery. Read a book in the gardens or chat to other guests over wine on the terrace.

Activities at The Merchant's House

Stroll through Palea Perithia and peek into old churches and abandoned houses. Hike the Corfu Trail (or some of it), which is sign-posted and passes through the village, or ask Saskia and Mark where their favourite walks are. Mountain biking is also a great way to take in your surroundings: go off exploring or take a guided bike tour. When it’s time to hit the beach, try Gerald Durrell’s favourite, Agios Spyridon which is less than 20 minutes away; or Kerasia, one of the most picturesque in Corfu and a stone’s throw from the Rothschild’s holiday home.

Best time to go

Best time to travel

Good time to travel (but some limitations)

Travel is possible (but it’s not the best time)

Travel is not recommended

  • Jan
  • Feb
  • Mar
  • Apr
  • May
  • Jun
  • Jul
  • Aug
  • Sep
  • Oct
  • Nov
  • Dec
Best time to go

Hotel location

Palea Perithia is 55km from Corfu town and airport, which takes approximately 1.5 hours by car. The drive along the coast is delightful, as you pass the Ionian Sea on one side and lush mountains on the other. No cars are permitted access in the village so park a little further up.

Stay at The Merchant's House on these trips

More places to stay in Central & Northern Greece

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