In 1935 the Durrell family left England for Corfu, and the years that followed became one of the best-loved island memoirs in English: Gerald Durrell's My Family and Other Animals. His older brother Lawrence, who went on to write about the Mediterranean in books such as Prospero's Cell, also drew on the island. More recently a television series, The Durrells, brought the family's story to a wide audience and filmed in and around Corfu, so visitors now ask where the villas, tavernas and bays can be found. This guided tour answers the question by combining locations used in filming with places linked to the family's real years on the island. A local guide drives you through coastal villages and olive country, points out the settings that appear on screen and in the books, and tells stories about the family, the island's naturalists and the people who inspired characters. The tour appeals to readers and viewers, but it also suits anyone who enjoys a scenic drive with context, because it reveals the countryside and small harbours that big coach tours skip. The route and stops are set by the operator and can change with the season and filming access, so treat the highlights as a guide rather than a guarantee, and ask the operator what the day includes before you go.
How it works
The tour is a guided road trip with a local guide, usually in a small vehicle with pick-up arranged near Corfu Town. Stops combine viewpoints, villages and walks of modest length, with time for photographs and a break for coffee or a meal. The exact sites change, and some places used in filming are private property that can only be seen from the road, so expectations should be set accordingly.
What to expect
You will hear about the Durrell family's arrival, their moves between villas, the animals Gerald collected and the friends who became characters in the book. A guide who knows the books will connect passages to real views, and one who knows the series will explain how locations were dressed for the screen. The countryside is green and hilly, the roads can be narrow, and some walking on uneven ground is possible, so wear comfortable shoes. Reading the first book beforehand makes the day richer, but it is not necessary.
Making the most of it
Bring a camera, a hat and water, and ask the guide for recommendations of tavernas and swimming spots near the places you visit. The tour pairs well with a visit to the old town, where the family shopped and the guide can point out streets and cafes of the period. Fans of the series should mention it at the start so the guide can emphasise screen locations, while book readers can ask to focus on the real history.
Because the route depends on road conditions and weather, a clear day gives the best views and photographs. Allow a relaxed day, since conversation and photo stops tend to extend the schedule, and consider an evening in the old town with a pastitsada or sofrito to finish the cultural thread with a local meal. The tour is a good rainy-season choice too, as most of the commentary works well from the vehicle.
What to expect
The experience
A guided tour by road to places linked to the Durrell family and the television series filmed on Corfu.
Best time
Clear days, when the coastal views are at their best, though the tour works in most seasons.
How long
Around five hours, depending on the route and the stops.
Tips
Read or watch a little beforehand if you can, wear comfortable shoes, and remember some filming locations are private and can only be seen from the road.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Readers of My Family and Other Animals and fans of the television series who want to see the island they describe.
- Families
- Older children who enjoy stories and animals may like it, but the commentary is aimed at adults.
- Couples
- A gentle, story-led outing through olive country and small harbours.
- Pair with
- Corfu Old Town, a taverna lunch and a pastitsada dinner.
- Time needed
- Half a day.
Good questions
Do I need to know the books or the series?+
No. The tour is enjoyable as a scenic drive with local history, though familiarity with the stories adds to it.
Will I see the real family villas?+
Some locations are private property and can only be seen from the road, and the route varies by operator. Ask what the day includes when you book.
How long is the tour?+
Expect around five hours, though the length depends on the route and how many stops you make.
Is there much walking?+
Only short stretches on uneven ground. Wear comfortable shoes.
Does it run all year?+
Road tours of this kind usually run in most seasons, but confirm availability with the operator for your dates.
