In order to help you with the organisation of your excursions, but also for your essential acquaintance with the features of each region, we have divided the island of Corfu into five units. Each unit consist of one region: the TOWN OF CORFU, central Corfu (the region of MESIS ), northeast Corfu (the region of OROS), northwest Corfu (the region of GYROS) and southern Corfu (the region of LEFKIMMI).
This division has historic origins going back several centuries: the French Angevins (1267-1386) divided the island into four administrative areas called 'bailiwicks', each governed by a 'bailiff'.
This division still exists, at least as far as tradition and agricultural produce goes. Thus the villages of Mesis and Gyros are famed for their excellent wine, Oros for its pork products, Lefkimmi for its fish and its grapes, while the town maintains its separate urban identity.
Notes
It is important to note that the British (1814 - 1864) created an extensive network of roads, making access to the land easier everywhere. Today, by following asphalt roads, tracks and footpaths, it is true to say that in Corfu you may go wherever you wish, and exploring the island is easy and interesting.
Leaving town, bear in mind that the roads to Pelekas and Palaiokastritsa lead west and northwest. The road for Ipsos (turn right at the Tzavros junction) heads to the north and northeast. Finally, the road which passes the airport (National Lefkimmi Route) leads to the south and, if you leave it at the Vrioni junction, to the west.
In general, country roads are narrow with many bends which wind round the olive trees, for when the roads were built, it was preferable to avoid the trees rather than cut them down. When the olives fall, the road surface can become very slippery with oil which is even slicker than motor oil. Heavy tourist traffic during summer impedes circulation even more (especially British drivers who cannot understand why we like driving on the right hand side of the road!)
In the villages it is customary for the locals to wave at acquaintances and strangers alike. Wave back. It is not a trick laid on for the tourists, but a sign of the genuine kindness and spontaneity that characterises the conduct of the Corfiots.