Although, Corfu is a very green island, there is a sandy desert located near the west coast.
A lake, parted from the sea by a small land tongue, is surrounded by a sandy desert. This landscape is very different from the parts of the island, we have seen up to now. The ground is covered by a thick layer of sand, similar to a sandy beach. Bushes with thorny twigs and leaves are growing here, as well as some smaller crops, which love dry grounds. Thick, black insects are flying from one blossom to the next, by paying no attention to the visitors. Shady places are very rare here.
It seems, the locals use this area for driving with dune-buggies and quad bikes through the hills. At least we found many skid marks here, implying this.
The lake itself, unfortunately, is surrounded by reeds. These plants are about 2 m high. So, it’s quite hard to get a view to the lake. From some of the sandy hills we were able to see many herons and other big birds standing in the shallow water and on sand banks or swimming around. But, even 1200mm (400mm + 2x tele-converter attached to a camera with an APS-C sensor) were enough to fill the frame. Furthermore, the sand didn’t give a solid ground, to get sharp images. You also have to plan with heat haze, when trying to photograph over such long distances. What a pity.
When trying to come here, pay much attention to the road. The last mile is an unpaved trail with many thick stones and deep road-holes. Here, at our first short stop, is a small parking ground for about 6 or 7 cars.
Take care!
Oh yes, I remember this sand, it was a grand surprise. For the motorcycle as well. I wonder if you saw the very south of the island (which we skipped for some reason), and the lovely ‘sunset beach’ in the northwest. There are also some ‘love channels’, correct? I think the waves are taking them apart though. I was there some 10 years ago. Possibly you have all that in story for future posts. š
let’s wait a moment – there’s more to come š
Very well. I thought it might be coming. š
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