When access to Vidos, Porto Timoni, Erimitis, and Antipaxos is prohibited

An announcement has been issued by the Corfu Port Authority to maritime organisations, marine tourism professionals, and boat owners, reminding them of the restrictive measures that will remain in effect throughout the 2026 fire prevention season in areas at high risk of wildfires.

According to the announcement, when the daily Fire Risk Forecast Map issued by the General Secretariat for Civil Protection classifies the Regional Unit of Corfu in categories 4 (very high risk) or 5 (state of alert), the passage, presence, and movement of people and vehicles in Natura areas, forest ecosystems, groves, and parks is prohibited 24 hours a day.

Areas where these restrictions apply include, among others:

• Issos Cedar Forest
• Korission Sand Dunes
• Arkoudilas
• Mon Repos
• Vidos
• Lazaretto
• Mouse Island
• Porto Timoni
• Erimitis
• Antipaxos

On days when the fire danger index is at level 3 (high risk), the measures apply only from 13:00 to 23:59 and cover most of the above-mentioned areas, with certain exceptions.

Ban on passenger transport to protected areas

The Port Authority also points out that during periods when the restrictions are in force, passenger transport by tourist passenger vessels or private boats to the restricted areas is prohibited whenever the wildfire danger index reaches the specified risk levels.

Professional associations, agents, owners, and legal representatives of docked ships and vessels are also requested to inform their members about the implementation of these measures.

The announcement forms part of the 2026 summer wildfire prevention plan, aimed at limiting access to environmentally sensitive natural areas when weather conditions significantly increase the risk of fire ignition or spread.

GIORGOS KATSAITIS