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Historical places #5 in Corfu (city)

Kaiser William II Observatory

4.7 · 5,221 reviews
A quiet place for contemplation
Kaiser William II Observatory, Pelekas 491 00, Greece
Interesting facts
1

German Emperor Wilhelm II visited this site frequently during his stays at the Achilleion Palace in the early 20th century.

2

The summit offers a nearly unobstructed view of the island, including the town of Corfu and the distant mountains of Albania.

3

The area is locally referred to as 'Kaiser's Throne' due to the Emperor's historical preference for this specific vantage point.

4

The terrain surrounding the observation deck consists of exposed limestone and rocky outcrops consistent with the local topography of Pelekas village.

Overview

The Kaiser William II Observatory, located on the summit of Pelekas hill in Corfu, serves as a panoramic vantage point originally frequented by German Emperor Wilhelm II. The site features a stone-built observation platform offering a 360-degree view of the Ionian Sea and the interior of Corfu island. The location is situated at an elevation of approximately 270 meters above sea level, providing visibility across the island's western coastline. Wilhelm II purchased the nearby Achilleion Palace and utilized this specific hill as a private retreat for stargazing and contemplation. The area remains a popular destination for viewing the sunset over the horizon.

Photo spot

The stone parapet at the highest point of the terrace, looking west toward the Ionian Sea.

Insider tips

Wear sturdy, closed-toe footwear as the path to the summit can be rocky and uneven.

Bring a light windbreaker, as the elevated, exposed position of the observatory often results in strong breezes even on calm days.

Visit on a clear day, as cloud cover frequently obscures the panoramic views from the hill.

What to avoid

Do not attempt to drive a large vehicle or rental campervan to the very top, as the roads through Pelekas village are extremely narrow with limited turning space.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
45 minutes - 1 hour
Best time to visit
Late afternoon to sunset; the orientation provides direct views of the sun setting into the Ionian Sea.
Address
Kaiser William II Observatory, Pelekas 491 00, Greece
39.595, 19.821
Get directions
Details
Historical contextFormer private retreat of German Emperor Wilhelm II
Site typeNatural hilltop viewpoint with historic masonry

Frequently asked

Plan for about 45 minutes - 1 hour to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Late afternoon to sunset; the orientation provides direct views of the sun setting into the Ionian Sea..

The stone parapet at the highest point of the terrace, looking west toward the Ionian Sea.

Close by you'll find Glyfada Beach, Aqualand, The Achilleion Palace.