Greek-set TV series, inspired by Gerald Durrell's trilogy and his own family, filmed in Corfu.

Greek-set TV series, inspired by Gerald Durrell's trilogy and his own family, filmed in Corfu.

Jetting Off to Corfu, Greece? Here's a Helping Hand for Your Vacay:

La-di-da, mate! Fancy a sojourn on the enchanting Greek isle of Corfu? Back in 1935, the Durrell brood -- a magnificent clutch of literary offspring -- fled the gray skies of old Blighty for sunnier climes. The smashing ITV series The Durrells is based on this very adventure, offering a riveting glimpse into their zany island life, long before the days of tacky resorts.

So, here's a lowdown on some of the swell spots that'll have you feeling like a Durrell in no time!

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A Family Exiled Under the Corfiot Sky

With matching umbrellas and boxes brimming with dreams, the Durrell family of mammoth talents touches down on Corfu's shores. The brainchild of Lawrence, the family's literary mastermind, the lot of them were on a mad-cap mission to escape the bleak British rain and pennies shivering in their pockets. Upon arrival, they discovered an island unlike any other, where the natives eyed them with curiosity that was as genuine as it was infectious.

Perched in shabby villas, they embraced the island's lazy beauty, making homes surrounded by the breathtaking nature, like the "White House" on Kalami Bay where Lawrence penned the captivating Prospero's Cell -- now a right posh restaurant and swanky holiday pad.

Treading in the Durrells' Footsteps

The silver screen version of the family's misadventures chose their East Coast abode to be the drop-dead gorgeous Villa Annemoyani. This stunning Venetian palace, now rebranded as The Durrell's Retreat, offers an elegant playground for lingering days and luxurious evenings. With olive groves, direct swimming access, and a view of the enchanting Lazaretto island, it's pretty much a dream come true.

Over the four sensational series of this shimmy-shake delight, iconic island locations pop up like candy: Dassia’s extended beaches, the humble fishing village of Agios Stefanos near Albania's border, and the famed sunset-chasing port of Sidari. Some beachy scenes were even captured at the serene Agni Bay, well-known for its crystalline deep blue waters and tavernas dangling their toes in the drink.

At times, the film crew could only reach these splendid settings by boat, instilling a bit of pirate fantasy as they explored still-untamed Corfu.

Ancient Ruins, Bustling Markets, and False Goods

The ancient town of Corfu plays the lead in many a Durrells scene. A UNESCO World Heritage site, it's a heady mix of Venetian, French, and English influences, with its port, narrow streets, arcades, and squares setting the stage for the Durrells' theatrical lives. The Saint Michael and Saint George Palace, make-believe banks in the series, bustling markets, and the Boschetto gardens, where statues of Lawrence and Gerald loom large, each hint at the family's lasting impact on the island.

The faithful reproduction of a 1930s Corfiot village, Danilia, features in a few scenes too. Built back in the 70s, it offers a glimpse into the atmosphere of that era and a diversion for Durrells fans who can't get enough of period vibes. Lastly, remember to pay a visit to the Mon Repos villa, now open to the public, which was transformed into Countess Mavrodaki's home on the series, and that of His Royal Highness Prince Philip in real life!

Roman Holidays, Broken Lives, and Wild Antics

With the scent of olives in the air, the Durrell family was far from your typical nuclear ensemble. Lawrence was a mad genius with a stack of manuscripts, convinced of his own literary prowess. Margo was a flittery thing, forever dreaming of love and soaking up the sun. Leslie harbored an unnatural fascination with firearms, while Gerald preferred critters like turtles, tortoises, and geckos to his human mates.

During their exile, they got up to some riotous antics, rubbed shoulders with Corfiot locals, and charmed an angiophober taxi driver who led them through the enchanting labyrinth that was their new home.

Distorted Memories, Tourism, and Durrelliana

The Durrell brood's escapades left a mark on Corfu. Eager to keep their legacy alive, the island leans into its Durrellian past with tours, themed visits, and overnight stays dotted around the island. Join in the fun, mate. If you're going to be a Durrellian for a day, go the whole hog and embrace your new persona wholeheartedly!

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Enrichment:Corfu, Greece, offers a picturesque backdrop of captivating landscapes and historical sites, many of which were featured in the ITV series "The Durrells." Here are some iconic locations from the series and their real-life counterparts:

Iconic Locations in "The Durrells" Series

1. Strawberry Pink Villa
2. Real-Life Counterpart: Located in Perama, this villa was the Durrell family's first home on the island but is now a private property and closed to visitors[1].
3. Old Fortress of Corfu
4. Series Context: While it wasn't a direct filming location for the Durrells' home, the Old Fortress is a remarkable landmark and a significant part of Corfu Old Town[2].
5. Kanoni Peninsula
6. Series Context: This spot is known for its olive groves, as it was the filming location for scenes where the Durrell family was depicted picnicking[2].
7. Paleokastritsa Beach
8. Series Context: The Durrells' fishing hut was filmed near this beach, although the actual remains of the filming set are submerged underwater near the lighthouse[2].
9. Inland Villages
10. Real-Life Counterparts: Villages like Kouramades and Sinarades, with their traditional Corfiot architecture, were used as filming locations[1].
11. Danilia Village
12. Series Context: Although not a direct filming location for "The Durrells," Danilia Village is noted for its use as a filming set for other productions. It includes a museum showcasing traditional Greek life[3].

Real-Life Counterparts for Visitation

• Alkyna Lifestyle Beach Resort: This resort is close to several filming locations, providing a convenient base for exploring the island[1].
• Mon Repos Palace: A beautiful summer estate with lush gardens, open to visitors today, was once visited by Gerald and Lawrence Durrell[2].
• Embarking on your own Corfiot adventure, immerse yourself in the Durrells' footsteps by staying at The Durrell's Retreat, once the stunning Venetian palace, Villa Annemoyani.
• Savor the island's home-and-garden charm at Agni Bay, where clear blue waters and traditional tavernas create a romantic backdrop for an idyllic getaway, just like the Durrell family experienced during their in-flights to Corfu.

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