The Durrells, a heartwarming and whimsical television series, has captivated audiences worldwide with its portrayal of a family’s adventures in 1930s Greece. Based on the autobiographical trilogy by Gerald Durrell, the show is a beautifully crafted depiction of the natural beauty, rich culture, and vibrant spirit of the Greek islands. But have you ever wondered which Greek island is the Durrells filmed on? The answer lies in the stunning island of Corfu, a hidden gem in the Ionian Sea that has been the backdrop for this beloved series.
Introduction to Corfu: A Brief History and Geography
Corfu, also known as Kerkira, is the second-largest island in the Ionian Sea, located off the northwest coast of Greece. With a rich history dating back to ancient times, Corfu has been a prized possession for various empires and civilizations, including the Romans, Byzantines, Venetians, and British. This diverse heritage is reflected in the island’s unique architecture, cuisine, and cultural traditions. Corfu’s geography is characterized by lush green forests, sparkling turquoise waters, and picturesque villages perched on hillsides, making it an ideal location for filming a period drama like The Durrells.
The Durrells’ Connection to Corfu
The Durrell family’s real-life connection to Corfu began in 1935 when Lawrence Durrell, the eldest brother, convinced his mother to move the family from England to the island. The family settled in a villa near the village of Kalami, where they spent four years immersed in the local culture and surrounded by the island’s breathtaking natural beauty. Gerald Durrell’s experiences during this time inspired his vivid descriptions of Corfu’s flora and fauna, as well as the fascinating characters that inhabited the island. The show’s creators drew heavily from these autobiographical accounts, bringing the Durrells’ adventures to life on the small screen.
Filming Locations in Corfu
While the show’s production team did film some scenes in studios and other locations, many of the exterior scenes were filmed on location in Corfu. Some of the key filming locations include:
The village of Danilia, which serves as the main street of the Durrells’ fictional village, has been transformed to resemble a 1930s Greek village, complete with traditional architecture, charming shops, and quaint cafes. The picturesque beach of Paleokastritsa, with its turquoise waters and scenic cliffs, has been featured in several episodes, showcasing the island’s stunning natural beauty. The 14th-century Old Fortress in Corfu Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, has been used as a backdrop for various scenes, highlighting the island’s rich history and cultural significance.
Exploring Corfu: A Guide for Fans of The Durrells
For fans of the show, visiting Corfu is a dream come true. The island offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural attractions, and Durrell-related landmarks, making it an ideal destination for those looking to follow in the footsteps of the Durrell family. Some must-visit attractions include:
The White House, the Durrells’ former home in Kalami, which has been restored to its original charm and now operates as a museum and event space. The Corfu Museum of Asian Art, located in the Palace of St. Michael and St. George, features an impressive collection of Asian art and artifacts, as well as exhibits related to the Durrell family’s time on the island. The charming town of Corfu, with its narrow streets, historic buildings, and vibrant atmosphere, is perfect for exploring and discovering the island’s hidden gems.
Conservation Efforts in Corfu
The Durrells’ love for nature and conservation is a central theme in the show, and Corfu has continued to prioritize environmental protection and sustainability. The Corfu Trail, a 220-kilometer hiking trail that spans the length of the island, offers stunning views, diverse landscapes, and opportunities to spot local wildlife. The island is also home to several nature reserves, including the Corfu Nature Reserve, which protects the habitats of rare and endangered species. Visitors can support conservation efforts by visiting these reserves, participating in guided tours, and respecting the island’s natural environment.
Supporting Local Communities
In addition to conservation efforts, visitors can also support local communities by exploring traditional villages, trying local cuisine, and shopping at family-owned businesses. The Durrells’ legacy has had a positive impact on the local economy, with many businesses and attractions benefiting from the show’s popularity. By choosing to support local communities, visitors can help preserve the island’s unique culture and way of life.
Conclusion
The Greek island where The Durrells is filmed, Corfu, is a treasure trove of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. From its stunning landscapes and charming villages to its Durrell-related landmarks and conservation efforts, Corfu has something to offer for every type of traveler. Whether you’re a fan of the show, a nature lover, or simply looking for a unique and enriching experience, Corfu is an absolute must-visit destination. As Gerald Durrell so eloquently described, Corfu is a place where “the landscape is so extravagantly beautiful that it becomes almost absurd,” and it is this absurd beauty that has captivated audiences and inspired a new generation of travelers to explore the enchanting island of Corfu.
What is Corfu and why is it a popular destination?
Corfu is a Greek island located in the Ionian Sea, off the northwest coast of Greece. It is the second-largest island in the Ionian Islands and has a rich history, stunning landscapes, and a unique cultural heritage. The island’s strategic location has made it an attractive destination for various civilizations, including the Greeks, Romans, Venetians, and British, each leaving their mark on the island’s architecture, cuisine, and traditions. Corfu’s beautiful beaches, charming villages, and lush green landscapes make it a popular destination for tourists seeking a relaxing and culturally enriching experience.
The island’s popularity has been further boosted by the British ITV television series “The Durrells,” which is set in Corfu and showcases the island’s breathtaking scenery, charming villages, and vibrant culture. The series, based on the autobiographical books by Gerald Durrell, follows the adventures of the Durrell family as they leave England and settle in Corfu in the 1930s. The show’s success has led to an increase in tourism, with many fans of the series visiting the island to explore the locations featured in the show and experience the unique charm of Corfu for themselves. Visitors can stroll through the picturesque villages, visit historic landmarks, and enjoy the local cuisine, which includes a mix of Greek and Italian flavors.
What are the main attractions in Corfu?
Corfu has a wide range of attractions that cater to different interests and preferences. The island’s capital, Corfu Town, is a must-visit destination, with its charming old town, historic landmarks, and vibrant cultural scene. The town is home to the famous Liston Square, the Church of St. Spyridon, and the Corfu Museum of Asian Art, among other attractions. Visitors can also explore the island’s beautiful beaches, including Paleokastritsa, Sidari, and Kassiopi, which offer a range of water sports and activities. The island’s interior is also worth exploring, with its picturesque villages, olive groves, and scenic hiking trails.
One of the most popular attractions in Corfu is the Achilleion Palace, a stunning 19th-century palace built by the Austro-Hungarian Empress Elisabeth of Bavaria. The palace is dedicated to the mythological hero Achilles and features an impressive collection of artworks, including sculptures and paintings. Visitors can also explore the palace’s beautiful gardens, which offer breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. Other attractions include the Old Fortress, the New Fortress, and the village of Paleokastritsa, which is famous for its stunning beaches and picturesque harbor. With its rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture, Corfu has something to offer for every type of visitor.
What is the history of the Durrell family in Corfu?
The Durrell family, consisting of Lawrence, Gerald, Leslie, Margo, and their mother, Louisa, moved to Corfu in 1935, seeking a new life and escape from the British climate. The family settled in a villa in the village of Kalami, where they spent four years living a simple and idyllic life, surrounded by nature and the local community. During their time in Corfu, the family developed a deep love and appreciation for the island and its people, which is reflected in Gerald Durrell’s autobiographical books, including “My Family and Other Animals,” “Birds, Beasts, and Relatives,” and “The Garden of the Gods.”
The Durrell family’s time in Corfu was marked by a series of adventures, misadventures, and discoveries, as they explored the island, learned about its culture and traditions, and developed a deep connection with the local community. The family’s experiences in Corfu had a profound impact on their lives, shaping their values, interests, and future careers. Gerald Durrell, in particular, developed a passion for wildlife conservation and writing, which led him to become a renowned author and conservationist. The Durrell family’s story has been immortalized in the ITV series “The Durrells,” which captures the essence of their time in Corfu and the island’s unique charm and beauty.
How has the TV series “The Durrells” impacted Corfu’s tourism?
The TV series “The Durrells” has had a significant impact on Corfu’s tourism, attracting a new wave of visitors to the island. The show’s success has led to an increase in tourist arrivals, with many fans of the series visiting the island to explore the locations featured in the show and experience the unique charm of Corfu for themselves. The series has also helped to promote Corfu’s culture, history, and natural beauty, showcasing the island’s stunning landscapes, charming villages, and vibrant cultural scene. As a result, Corfu has become a popular destination for fans of the series, with many tour operators offering guided tours and holidays inspired by the show.
The increase in tourism has also had a positive impact on the local economy, with many businesses, including hotels, restaurants, and shops, benefiting from the influx of visitors. The Corfu Tourism Board has also launched various initiatives to capitalize on the series’ success, including the development of Durrell-themed tours and holidays, as well as promotional campaigns to attract more visitors to the island. Overall, the series has been a boon for Corfu’s tourism industry, helping to promote the island’s unique charm and beauty to a wider audience and attracting a new generation of visitors to this enchanting Greek island.
What are the best ways to explore Corfu?
Corfu is an island that can be explored in various ways, depending on one’s interests and preferences. One of the best ways to explore the island is on foot, wandering through the charming villages, historic towns, and scenic countryside. Visitors can also explore the island by car, renting a vehicle to discover the island’s hidden beaches, villages, and scenic viewpoints. Alternatively, visitors can take a boat tour to explore the island’s coastline, visiting secluded beaches, coves, and islands.
For the more adventurous, Corfu offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and water sports. The island’s scenic trails and countryside paths offer breathtaking views and a chance to explore the island’s natural beauty. Visitors can also take a guided tour, joining a group or private tour to explore the island’s history, culture, and natural beauty. With its rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture, Corfu has something to offer for every type of visitor, whether they prefer to explore the island on their own or with a guided tour.
What is the local cuisine like in Corfu?
The local cuisine in Corfu is a unique blend of Greek and Italian flavors, reflecting the island’s history and cultural heritage. The island’s cuisine is known for its fresh seafood, locally grown produce, and traditional dishes, such as sofrito, pastitsada, and bourdeto. Visitors can sample the local cuisine at one of the many tavernas, restaurants, or cafes, which offer a range of traditional dishes, including soups, salads, and main courses. The island is also famous for its desserts, including the traditional galaktoboureko and the sweet, flaky pastry, bourek.
Corfu’s cuisine is also influenced by the island’s agricultural produce, including olives, olive oil, and citrus fruits. The island’s wine production is also worth mentioning, with several local wineries producing high-quality wines, including the famous Corfu white wine. Visitors can sample the local cuisine at a traditional taverna or restaurant, or visit one of the many local markets, which offer a range of fresh produce, cheeses, and other local products. With its unique blend of flavors and traditions, the local cuisine in Corfu is an integral part of the island’s culture and identity, and a must-try experience for any visitor.
Can I visit the locations featured in “The Durrells” TV series?
Yes, many of the locations featured in “The Durrells” TV series are open to visitors and can be explored on a guided tour or independently. The series was filmed at various locations across the island, including the village of Kalami, where the Durrell family lived, and the nearby town of Corfu, which features prominently in the show. Visitors can explore the charming villages, historic landmarks, and scenic landscapes that were featured in the series, including the iconic White House, where the Durrell family lived, and the picturesque village of Paleokastritsa, which is famous for its stunning beaches and scenic harbor.
Fans of the series can also visit the Corfu Boatmen Association, which offers boat tours to the locations featured in the show, including the island of Vidos, where the Durrell family often sailed. The island’s tourism board has also developed a Durrell Trail, which takes visitors on a guided tour of the locations featured in the series, including the family’s home, the local village, and the scenic countryside. With its stunning landscapes, charming villages, and rich history, Corfu is a must-visit destination for fans of “The Durrells” and anyone looking to experience the unique charm and beauty of this enchanting Greek island.