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Othoni Cultural Association

THE WEST COAST

Where they used to drag the timber

A small, quiet beach on the western coast, reachable only by boat. Sand, pebbles and rock together, and the open Ionian in front of it. A good place to be at the end of the day.

The rest of the coast

The name, and the place

The name comes from xylo, wood, and serno, to drag. Timber cut in the island's forests was dragged down to this shore to be taken away by sea. That is what the beach was for, back when Othoni had that kind of work.

Now it is a mix of sand, pebbles and rock, quiet because there is no way down to it except by boat. Nothing is built here. The western side faces the open sea, which is why the sunsets are what people come for and also why the wind arrives here first.

Above it, near Chorio, there is a short paved path to a small amphitheatre with benches and a safety barrier, looking down over the bay. If you would rather watch the sun go down without getting in a boat, that is the place.

Further up the same coast is Aspri Ammos — white sand under a steep cliff, also boat-only. See the rest of the places on the island too.

Getting there

The practical side.

How do I get to Xylosermi?
By boat only — there is no path down to the beach itself. Arrange a boat from Ammos, or ask your host. If you only want the view, the viewpoint above it is reachable on foot from Chorio.
Is it a good sunset spot?
It is one of the best on the island, because it faces the open Adriatic with nothing in the way. The amphitheatre viewpoint above the bay is the easier option and has benches and a barrier. A quieter, more exposed trail along an unpaved road leads to the cliffs nearby.
What should I bring?
Water, food, sun protection, and shoes you can walk on stones in. Nothing is sold here and there is no shade for most of the day. The west coast catches the wind, so check conditions before committing to the boat.

Plan the crossing

Othoni is reached only by boat from Corfu. Two regular routes, both weather-dependent. Check the times before you set your plans.

Boat routes & times