Following the Durrells in the City and Countryside

Corfu’s captivating landscapes have long inspired travelers seeking to follow in the footsteps of the Durrell family. From the charming Venetian architecture of Corfu Town to the serene natural beauty of the island’s countryside, this idyllic destination offers a multifaceted journey. Visitors can explore the Durrell family home, hike the scenic Corfu Trail, and enjoy the cultural richness that shaped the beloved literary works of Gerald Durrell. For those eager to uncover the essence of this remarkable legacy, Corfu promises an unforgettable experience.

Exploring Corfu Town

The tour begins with a stroll through Corfu Town, the island’s charming capital.

You’ll wander through the Old Town’s winding streets, admiring the Venetian architecture and lively plazas.

Stop at the landmark Liston promenade, modeled after the Rue de Rivoli in Paris.

Visit the impressive 16th-century Old Fortress, once a stronghold against invaders.

Explore the picturesque Spianada, Europe’s largest city square, where locals and travelers gather.

Discover the historical significance of sites featured in the popular TV series "The Durrells".

Throughout the tour, your guide will share insights into Corfu’s rich history and culture, bringing the island’s past to life.

Visiting the Durrell Family Home

Next, the tour explores the former home of the famous Durrell family.

The group will visit the house where Gerald Durrell and his family lived for several years on the island of Corfu. Guests can see the very rooms that inspired Durrell’s beloved books, like My Family and Other Animals.

The guide will share stories about the family’s life in this charming countryside villa, giving visitors a glimpse into the Durrells’ world.

After exploring the property, the tour continues to other Durrell-related sites around the island, allowing guests to further enjoy the family’s legacy and the Corfiot countryside they cherished.

Hiking the Corfu Trail

Where does the tour next take visitors? After exploring the Durrell family home, the tour heads out to traverse the Corfu Trail.

This picturesque hiking route winds through the island’s lush countryside, offering stunning views of the Ionian Sea. Visitors will follow in the Durrells’ footsteps, passing through olive groves, cypress forests, and charming villages.

The moderate hike requires a reasonable level of fitness, but the reward is the opportunity to take in the same natural landscapes that inspired the Durrell family’s celebrated memoirs.

Along the way, tour participants can expect to encounter local wildlife and gain a deeper appreciation for the island’s rich ecological diversity.

Discovering Local Attractions

After exploring the scenic Corfu Trail, the tour moves on to discover local attractions that highlight the island’s rich cultural heritage.

The tour takes visitors to:

1. The Old Fortress, a stunning 16th-century Venetian fortification with breathtaking views of the Ionian Sea.
2. The Corfu Town’s historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring neoclassical architecture and charming cobblestone streets.
3. The Mon Repos Palace, the birthplace of Prince Philip and a beautiful example of Neoclassical design.
4. The Achilleion Palace, a grand 19th-century structure built by Empress Elisabeth of Austria and featuring stunning gardens and classical statues.

These carefully curated stops provide a deep dive into Corfu’s history, architecture, and natural beauty, offering a truly immersive experience.

Taking in the Countryside

Leaving the historic city behind, the tour ventures into Corfu’s picturesque countryside. Visitors will be immersed in the serene landscapes that inspired the beloved Durrell family. The tour includes stops at:

Location	Description
Mount Pantokrator	The highest point on the island, offering panoramic views.
Durrell Wildlife Park	Home to the animal species that featured in the Durrells’ memoirs.
Kalami	The charming seaside village where the Durrells lived and wrote.

This section of the tour allows guests to fully experience the natural beauty and tranquility that captivated the Durrells, providing a deeper connection to the family’s story.

Learning About the Durrells

As visitors enjoy the countryside that captivated the Durrells, they’ll also have the chance to learn more about this renowned family.

The tour provides insights into:

1. The Durrells’ lives on Corfu, where they lived from 1935 to 1939.

2. The inspirations behind the bestselling books and TV series that brought the family’s story to life.

3. The legacy of naturalist and author Gerald Durrell, whose work continues to educate and entertain.

4. How the Durrells’ experiences on the idyllic Greek island shaped their perspectives and influenced their future endeavors.

Experiencing Corfu’s Culture

The tour allows visitors to enjoy the vibrant culture of Corfu, where the Durrells once lived.

Guests will explore the charming streets of the Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and visit the iconic landmarks that inspired the Durrell family’s adventures.

Along the way, they’ll learn about local customs, sample traditional cuisine, and interact with friendly residents.

The countryside portion of the tour offers a peaceful respite, showcasing the island’s stunning natural beauty and providing insights into the Durrells’ rural life.

Through this immersive experience, travelers can truly feel connected to the Durrell legacy and gain a deeper appreciation for Corfu’s rich cultural heritage.

Since You Asked

Is the Tour Private or Shared?

The tour is private, as it states it’s a "private tour/activity" where "only your group will participate". This means you’ll have a personalized experience without sharing the tour with other travelers.

What Transportation Is Provided During the Tour?

The tour provides transportation during the experience. Guests are picked up from the meeting point or their hotel and returned to the starting location at the end of the tour.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Individual Interests?

The tour can be customized to individual interests. Customers can request modifications to the itinerary or activities to better suit their preferences. The tour operator is flexible in accommodating reasonable requests to enhance the overall experience.

Are Meals and Refreshments Included in the Tour Price?

The tour price does not include meals or refreshments. Participants are responsible for covering the cost of their own food and drinks during the tour. Snacks and beverages can be purchased at stops along the way.

What Is the Cancellation and Refund Policy?

The tour has a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the experience starts. Customers can also choose the Reserve Now and Pay Later option. Refunds are available within the cancellation period.

The Sum Up

Following the Durrell family’s footsteps in Corfu offers a unique opportunity to take in the landscapes that inspired their captivating tales. From the charming cobblestone streets of Corfu Town to the serene natural wonders of the countryside, this journey allows visitors to uncover the essence of the Durrells’ legacy and gain a deeper appreciation for the island’s rich cultural heritage.