Mandras beach is so called because the character of the same name in 'Corelli' fled the island from this location in the dead of night. The jetty which juts out from the shore (pictured) is the only physical evidence of the filming (apart from the new names of several bars and restaurants!), donated to the local council by the production team.

It is a delightful location, opposite Ithaca, but getting there is an enterprise in itself. To reach it you must take the mountain road out of Ayia Efimia towards Fiskardo, scale seemingly impregnable heights, and then descend on endless hairpins to within a short walk of the beach. There are no facilities, and if you are on a scooter, you will probably be too worried about whether you have enough petrol to get back to fully appreciate its beauty.

Perhaps the best way to take advantage of this gem is by yacht — see opposite!

Pluses

Glorious tranquil location and views.

Minuses

How do you get there?