Compared with its southern neighbour, Arillas, San Stefanos feels a lot more sophisticated. The main street of the resort is lined with street lamps and its plush glass-fronted shops would be just as comfortable on your own high street at home, as in this northern Corfu resort.
Everything In Stefanos is just that little bit bigger and slicker than in Arillas, and the whole resort has a level of professionalism that, as a well-developed and mature holiday destination, perhaps should not be unexpected.
On the western edge of the town is San Stefanos' harbour, where fishing boats and yachts alike can take refuge from the very rare storms that affect this region in the winter. If you feel adventurous, try running the entire length of the new sea wall, but prepared for some badly scuffed shins if you put a foot wrong too many times! On second thoughts, perhaps this isn't good advice after all, however, the writer of this report had a lot of fun "running the wall"!
San Stefanos' high-cliffed beach runs along a wide north-facing sweep, and has a gentle incline. This makes it especially safe if you are travelling with a young family. The beach is separate from the resort, but that doesn't mean it lacks resources. All your needs for refreshment and relaxation are catered for by its on-beach tavernas, even climbing frames for young children. Sun beds are available for hire on a daily basis, if you prefer a higher level of basking comfort, or alternatively, you can just spread your towel on the beach's fine soft sand.
If total seclusion is what you desire, then simply head east to the far end of the beach, and even during the peak holiday season you will be able to find your own virtually private beach.
If you are looking for something unique and special to take home from your trip, then there is one place in Stefanos where you are bound find just that. Perdita, a German artist who settled in San Stefanos has established a shop specialising in doing spectacularly beautiful things with glass. From big full-blown sculptures set in oiled olive wood, to wall lamps (as featured) to the most delicate of earrings and pendants, she has created her own niche and never fails to astound by what she is able to do with glass.
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