Turtle Tracks in Arillas: A Special Summer Surprise

Over the past few days, we’ve spotted signs of sea turtle nests along the beaches of Arillas, Agios Georgios, and Agios Stefanos, and even witnessed some hatching activity!

It’s now confirmed: the Caretta caretta (loggerhead sea turtle) has started using our warm, sandy shores to lay their eggs. While this is still a relatively new phenomenon here, it’s likely linked to climate change and the reduced fishing activity along Corfu’s western coast.

Traditionally, Zakynthos has been the main nesting site for sea turtles in Greece, thanks to the National Marine Park in Laganas Bay. In fact, this year has been the most active in a decade, with record numbers of turtles and nests. But lately, western Corfu’s quieter beaches have started to draw attention from these incredible creatures too.

Sea turtles usually return to the beach where they were born to lay their eggs—up to 200 at a time! Sadly, only about 1% of the hatchlings survive, as most fall prey to natural predators. That’s why every nest matters.

Now that these magical moments are happening in our area, it’s more important than ever to protect them. You’ll see some of the nests signposted on the beach, but we all need to help by spreading awareness and being mindful.

A Call to Everyone: Respect – Vigilance – Participation
    •    Please don’t approach the nests, especially at night.
    •    Avoid artificial lights, camera flashes, or loud noises.
    •    Keep umbrellas, sunbeds, and pets away from marked areas.
    •    If you see turtle tracks, hatchlings, or a new nest, report it right away:

📞 Mayor’s Office: +30 26633 60155
📞 Deputy Mayor Spyridoula Kokkali: +30 6978 614699

Visit the official website of ARCHELON Τhe Sea Turtle Protection Society of Greece and find more information.
 
Let’s all do our part to protect these beautiful creatures and help ensure they keep coming back for years to come.

Until today we have found 6 nests in Arillas beach,  most at the far end of the north beach and one on the front just next to the boat rental tower...

The Arillas cultural Organization which is consisted by over 100 members from Arillas, Afionas and Kavadades has established that the Annual  Wine Festival will be taking place this year on Saturday  the 6th September 2025.

I would would like to highlight that while this is not a tourist event, visitors in the area are more than welcome to join us and experience our vibrant culture. However, keep in mind that, Greek dances are a profound expression of our joy, sorrow, and emotions. If you're unfamiliar with the dances, feel free to ask for guidance or simply watch and enjoy.

Αντάμωμα
(ΑΝΤΑΜΟΜΑ)

In Arillas Corfu

On Saturday the 2nd of August 2025  at the olive grove between Brouklis Taverna and Athina Taverna.

Join us for a night of traditional folklore music and dance at the Antamoma Festival, >

ARILLAS BUSINESS ASSOCIATION- CORFU

All you need to know about Arillas if you wish to spend your vacation or to make business in our area.

Jointly organized in cooperation with the Local Councils of Magoulades, Afionas, Kavadades and  the Arillas cultural Organization

We represent the business community of Arillas and the broader area.
Some  140 different businesses here are run by approximately 50 local families.
For more than 30 years we have achieved a balance between the visitors, the locals and the businesses, based on the cooperation and mutual respect aiming to make of Arillas a sustainable tourist destination which we have to preserve.
In the recent years, we have noticed some welcome newcomers  reaching out  to become businessmen.  However, as they ignore the Greek institutional framework and the local culture, they do things, which are in conflict with everything we have achieved and tend to alter the tourist identity of the area.
Therefore, the balance achieved up to the present day is disturbed.  This is why we would like to put forth some points which we deem important for the development of the place.

Arillas beach condition in todays pictures!
This year the Sandy beach is much different than last year!! and the year ago! The nature has done it's miracle once again!

On Thursday the 29th of May 2025 there will be this year’s first festival in Arillas. It takes place near the local Church and old school of Arillas village which is about one and a half km from the beach on the way to Magoulades on the main road.

I’ve just finished reading The Strength of Fragile Days, a novel by Pierenrico Gottero a writer and a dear friend as well as a regular Arillas Visitor. Much of the story unfolds on Corfu, with an entire chapter devoted to Arillas.
What struck me most is how deeply the book captures Arillas’s essence, not just its stunning landscapes and the endless blue of the sea, but also its peaceful, genuine atmosphere, and above all, the true spirit of those of us who call Arillas home.Some passages felt so personal, so close, that they genuinely moved me; others were wonderfully funny and delightfully light, bringing a real smile to my face.

Arillas beach Aerial view of beach conditions in June 2024