STAGE 1 18km

Ipsos to Sokraki: A Perfect Introduction to the Week Ahead
The adventure begins with a stunning 18 km route featuring 740 m of elevation gain—a
beautiful “warm-up” for the unforgettable week that lies ahead.
Starting from the picturesque bay of Ipsos Beach, runners quickly leave the coastline behind
and head inland towards the historic old water mill before climbing to the traditional
mountain village of Spartylas. Here, breathtaking panoramic views open up across Corfu and
the sparkling Ionian Sea to the south.
Beyond Spartylas, the route joins the enchanting Orchid Trail, winding through lush
vegetation and shaded forest paths with some wonderfully runnable sections. The trail leads
towards Zygos village before a short scramble along the banks of a mountain stream adds a
touch of adventure to the day.
The challenge continues with the ascent of the old cobbled horse path leading to the charming
village of Sokraki, one of Corfu’s hidden gems. From there, runners begin their descent—at
times technical and demanding—towards the historic village of Agios Markos.
The final kilometres flow smoothly back towards the sea, guiding participants along scenic
paths to the bay of Ipsos and the finish line.
A route that perfectly combines history, nature, traditional villages, mountain trails, and
spectacular views, Stage 1 offers an unforgettable introduction to the Corfu Mountain Trail
Stage Race experience.

https://www.plotaroute.com/route/3338995

STAGE 2. 12km
Paleokastritsa Sky Trail
At just 12 km, Stage 2 may look short on paper, but with 624 m of elevation gain packed into
the course, it delivers a true mountain running challenge.
The day begins at the world-famous bay of Paleokastritsa, known for its crystal-clear waters
and dramatic coastline. After a brief passage near the beach—where runners may get their
feet wet—the route immediately turns uphill, tackling what could be Corfu’s steepest
cemented road before reaching the entrance to the spectacular Highlands Trail.
The adventure continues with a technical descent aided by ropes down to a mountain stream,
followed by a demanding climb towards the imposing Byzantine fortress of Angelokastro,
once a strategic lookout protecting the Ionian Sea from pirate invasions. Beneath the castle

walls, runners pass through ancient olive groves and the traditional village of Krini,
surrounded by centuries of history.
Beyond Makrades, the trail climbs towards Araklis before joining an old stone-paved donkey
path. Here, the reward is unforgettable: breathtaking views across Paleokastritsa Bay and the
mesmerising west coast of Corfu stretching towards the horizon.
The final kilometres descend through the picturesque village of Lakones before a steep yet
highly runnable downhill leads runners back to the finish line.
A compact stage packed with history, technical trails, stunning scenery, and some of the most
iconic landscapes on the island.

https://www.plotaroute.com/route/3339000

STAGE 3 18km
The Climb Ag Deka
Now that the legs are fully warmed up, Stage 3 raises the bar with an unforgettable 18 km
route featuring 1,009 m of elevation gain.
The journey begins in Benitses, a historic fishing village that has evolved into one of Corfu’s
most vibrant seaside towns, known for its marina, lively waterfront, traditional tavernas, and
rich heritage. From the start, runners begin climbing towards Agia Kyriaki, a small hilltop
church offering breathtaking 360-degree views across the island, the mountains, and the
Ionian Sea.
Beyond Agia Kyriaki, the first major ascent unfolds towards Pachatika and Milia before the
route continues through the beautiful village of Agioi Deka. Here, runners enter one of the
island’s most scenic sections, following ancient stone-paved trails hidden beneath dense
Mediterranean vegetation on the climb towards the historic Monastery of Pantokrator.
From the monastery, the course becomes wonderfully runnable as it traverses old olive
groves, rocky “stone forest” formations, and shaded woodland trails on the way to Stavros
village, the second-highest point of the day.
The final challenge comes in the form of a technical descent, following rugged stream-cut
gullies and natural channels carved by winter torrents through the mountainside. Demanding
concentration and rewarding skilled footwork, this exciting downhill eventually leads runners
back to Benitses and the finish line.
A stage that perfectly blends long climbs, runnable mountain trails, technical descents,
traditional villages, and spectacular viewpoints, offering one of the most complete trail
running experiences of the week.

https://www.plotaroute.com/route/3339010

STAGE 4 7km
The Coastal Escape
After the demanding mountain stages, Day 4 offers a shorter but equally memorable
adventure: a beautiful 7 km route with 358 m of elevation gain, designed for active recovery
while showcasing some of Corfu’s most spectacular coastline.
The stage begins at the small bay of Liapades before heading towards the stunning Rovinia
Beach, one of Corfu’s hidden gems and accessible only on foot or by sea. Surrounded by
crystal-clear waters and dramatic cliffs, this secluded cove provides an unforgettable start to
the day.
From Rovinia, the route follows the coastline through ancient olive groves and along newly
opened trails leading towards the remote beach of Iliodoros. Along the way, runners are
treated to breathtaking sea views, shaded paths beneath towering olive trees, and the peaceful
atmosphere of Corfu’s untouched western shoreline.
The course then loops back towards Liapades Bay, where a fast and runnable finish awaits.
Short in distance but rich in natural beauty, Stage 4 is the perfect opportunity to recover,
enjoy time on your feet, and immerse yourself in some of the island’s most stunning coastal
scenery. Equally suited to runners and hikers, this stage is all about experiencing the magic of
Corfu at a more relaxed pace.

https://www.plotaroute.com/route/3339020

STAGE 5 14km
The Grand Finale
The final day of the Corfu Mountain Trail Stage Race delivers an unforgettable point-to-point
adventure: 14 km packed with 720 m of elevation gain, combining rugged coastal trails,
hidden beaches, historic landmarks, and spectacular scenery.
The stage begins near the beautiful bay of Ermones and immediately tackles the infamous
“Vatos Hell” climb, a brutally steep ascent leading towards the abandoned church of Agios
Georgios. For hikers, an alternative and more accessible route bypasses this demanding
section while still reaching the same destination.
Beyond the church, runners are rewarded with what may be some of the finest views of the
entire race. A breathtaking coastal trail unfolds high above the cliffs, offering panoramic
vistas over the turquoise waters of Glyfada Bay—the next destination on this epic journey.
After crossing the famous beach of Glyfada, participants face one of the race’s most
memorable challenges: nearly one kilometre of scrambling along the rocky coastline towards

the golden sands of Kontogialos and the secluded beauty of Yaliskari Beach. It is a wild and
adventurous section that perfectly captures the spirit of the Corfu coastline.
A final steep climb leads away from the sea and into the island’s peaceful interior. The route
winds through lush Mediterranean vegetation, ancient olive groves, and quiet countryside
trails before crossing the Skafonas area and heading towards the historic village of
Varypatades.
Waiting there is the finish line of not only the stage but of an extraordinary five-day journey
across Corfu.
A fitting finale that showcases everything the island has to offer—mountains, coastline,
history, adventure, and unforgettable landscapes.
What a way to conclude five days of trail running in paradise.

https://www.plotaroute.com/route/3339026