The Ionian Islands, west of the Greek mainland, fell under Venetian rule from the 13th century, something that in places such as Corfu Town is still reflected in the local architecture.
There are seven principle islands and the ones of most interest to international buyers are Corfu, Kefalonia and Zakynthos, which all have their own airports.
Life in the Ionian Islands focuses on the sea: sailing, swimming and messing about in boats and the best homes provide good sea views. The steep, undeveloped hills of northeast Corfu, for example, have villas perched above the sea within easy reach of charming waterfront villages such as San Stefano and Kassiopi.