Dafnata - Aqueduct of Benitses - Saint Nikolas Chapel - Dafnata

Duration: 
  21/2 - 3hrs

Rating: Moderate
 

This wonderful walk takes you on a circuit of the low ridge of Dafnata ( central Corfu ). 
We walk through dense forest of olive, pine, oak and myrtle trees, along a natural water spring and we reach the Aqueduct of Benitses by a mountain footpath.
The Benitses Aqueduct is a remarkable, ingenious irrigation system that was developed in the 19th century by the British, to distribute water from the high mountain springs to Corfu Town.
 " The period of British occupation, British High Commissioner Sir Frederick Adam decided to give a definitive solution to the problem by transferring to the city plenty of fresh drinking water from the source of Carteri and St. Nicholas in the area of Benitses . On October 18, 1830 in the Senate he proposed the construction of an aqueduct in Benitses within 6.5 miles and in an altitude of 55 meters , the project budget was then 19,386 pounds.
The Senate did unanimously accepted the proposal of Sir Adam and the water supply of the city from the new aqueduct began with a majestic ceremony in the Esplanade square just 10 months later on August 7, 1831 .

The fact that pure and clean water was imported to town for first time was an event of huge importance for the citizens of Corfu. Throughout, the natural enviroment is wonderful. About the history of Benitses Aqueduct  read here..."

Periodic breaks in the trees give excellent photo opportunities and good excuses for a rest, with views of the wooded countryside composed of olive groves and forest of  pine, oak and myrtle trees.
You will come across many small chapels and have the chance to admire the heritage Greek Orthodox buildings.
A break here gives excellent photo opportunities and good excuses for a rest and a picnic.
Once sufficiently rested we begin the ascent back up through a mountain track by a different route, that emerges back at the village of  Dafnata. As you approach the end point of this mountain walk you may notice the Italian influence on the architecture of this quiet mountain village.

Here we have a choice, you can finish of the walk or alternatively you can have a short walk back to the village and the chance to admire the traditional old Greek buildings interspersed with the Italian influenced architecture. In either case a cold drink awaits you at the friendly taverna, perhaps a cold beer or a fresh squeezed orange juice.


Equipment: 
You will require walking boots and walking socks for support and comfort while walking. It is advisable to wear light long sleeve shirts and light trousers in addition to a sun hat, sun cream sunglasses. You should bring a rucksack, as it will be necessary to carry your lunch, personal items and at least one litres of water.

Food: 

You will not need to bring a large amount of food, however, certainly bring some. This is the sort of walk where you might bring some snacks and fruit. There is a shop on route and we will finish at a beach side tavern. The best rule of thumb is always to come away from a walk with some food spare.

Availability:
This guided walk is available on request.
Our walking season is all year round.
For a personal bespoke Walking Program that will include this guided walk on alternative days please contact us to discuss your requirements:  walkingcorfu1@gmail.com
Walking conditions: 
The majority of this walk is on clean paths, there is an optional section that is quite adventurous. There are some steep uphill sections but these are quite short; the overall altitude gain is low to moderate.The views are stunning from the summit. Approximately half the walk is on single-track footpaths. This tour involves a strenuous 2-mile walk so you must be in good physical condition with the ability to walk uphill for extended periods of time.

Stops & Breaks: 
There will be many stops allowing to take on water and one meal break, there are many photo opportunitiesbwhich will not be passed.


Meeting point: 
The walk begins from Dafnata Village ( view map here ).  Specific instructions will be provided on booking this guided walk. 

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