Visiting the enchanting locations that inspired the Durrell family’s literary works is a captivating experience. Travelers can enjoy the vibrant city and serene countryside of Corfu, uncovering the iconic landmarks that shaped the lives of this remarkable family. From the picturesque Pink villa to the tranquil White House, each stop on the guided tour offers a unique glimpse into the world of the Durrells. As visitors explore these remarkable sites, they’ll discover the rich history and captivating stories that have made the Durrell family a beloved part of Corfu’s cultural heritage.
Key Points
- Explore the iconic Pink villa at Kanoni with panoramic views that were a frequent backdrop in the TV series about the Durrell family.
- Visit the grand Countess Mavroudakis’ house with its lush gardens, showcasing the Durrells’ connection to Corfu’s history and architecture.
- Discover the charming White House in Kalami, where Lawrence Durrell lived and drew inspiration for his literary works.
- Immerse in the Durrells’ island life through a guided tour of Corfu’s Old Town, visiting key locations like the Contra Fossa port and Palace of Saint Michael.
- Benefit from a private, comfortable experience with a licensed tourist guide who provides valuable insights into the Durrells’ captivating legacy on the island.
Tour Overview
The tour offers a 4.5-hour private group experience exploring the city and countryside of Corfu related to the Durrells, with prices starting from €550.00 for up to 15 participants.
It’s conducted in English and features free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, as well as the option to reserve now and pay later.
Highlights include panoramic views of the Durrells’ Pink villa, exploring the gardens and exterior of the Countess Mavroudakis’ house, touring Corfu’s Old Town, and visiting the northeast coast to see the White House where Lawrence Durrell lived.
The tour includes a licensed tourist guide, air-conditioned private minivan, and professional driver, though food, drinks, and gratuities are optional.
Itinerary Highlights
Visitors on the tour start at Kanoni, where they can capture panoramic photos of the Durrells’ iconic Pink villa.
Next, they’ll explore the gardens of Mon Repos and the exterior of Countess Mavroudakis’ house, both featured in the TV series.
The tour then winds through Corfu’s Old Town, visiting key locations like the Contra Fossa port, the Palace of Saint Michael and Saint George, and the street of Pension Swiss, where the Durrell family first lived.
Finally, the tour travels to the northeast coast to see the White House in Kalami, the former residence of Lawrence Durrell and his wife Nancy.
Throughout the journey, the guide provides insightful historical context and behind-the-scenes details about the Durrells’ lives on the island.
Included Services
What does the tour include? The tour package offers a range of included services to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience for participants. These include transfer from and to the hotel or chosen location, a licensed tourist guide to provide insightful commentary, an air-conditioned private minivan, and a professional driver. Plus, while food and drinks are optional, gratuities are covered as part of the package.
| Service | Description |
|---|---|
| Transfer | From/to your hotel or chosen location |
| Guide | Licensed tourist guide |
| Vehicle | Air-conditioned private minivan |
| Driver | Professional driver |
| Extras | Optional food/drinks, covered gratuities |
Important Information
Guests should take note that this tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, so proper planning is necessary.
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a sun hat, and loose clothing are recommended items to bring along for the experience.
The tour covers a range of terrain, including walking through gardens and exploring the narrow streets of Old Town Corfu.
Visitors should be prepared for the Mediterranean climate, which can be warm and sunny.
While food and drinks aren’t included, participants are welcome to purchase refreshments along the way.
Customer Feedback
Travelers have praised this tour, awarding it an impressive 5/5 overall rating based on one review. The reviewer noted that it was a ‘lovely private tour,’ with the guide being ‘very informative’ and sharing valuable details about the Durrells and the island’s history.
The highlight for the reviewer was visiting the White House in Kalami, which they found ‘stunning’ and would love to revisit.
The feedback suggests this tour offers:
- A knowledgeable, engaging guide
- Insightful commentary on the Durrells and Corfu
- The chance to see key locations featured in the TV series
- A private, comfortable experience
- Stunning scenery and photo opportunities
Panoramic Views and Pink Villa
From the vantage point of Kanoni, visitors can take in panoramic views of the Durrells’ iconic Pink villa, nestled amidst the lush Corfiot landscape.
The villa, painted a striking shade of pink, stands out against the backdrop of verdant hills and the sparkling Ionian Sea. This picturesque setting was a frequent backdrop in the TV series, capturing the essence of the Durrells’ island life.
As visitors explore the area, they can imagine the family relaxing on the villa’s terrace, taking in the breathtaking scenery that inspired their adventures.
The tour provides an opportunity to walk in the footsteps of the Durrells and take in the captivating world they inhabited during their time on Corfu.
Exploring Countess Mavroudakis’ House
The tour then explores the exterior of Countess Mavroudakis’ house, a property that was prominently featured in the TV series ‘The Durrells in Corfu’. Visitors can admire the grand façade and ornate architectural details of this historic estate, which stood in for the home of the eccentric Countess Mavroduki.
The house boasts an impressive two-story design with intricate columns, pediments, and decorative stonework.
Guests can wander the lush gardens surrounding the property, which include manicured lawns and vibrant floral displays.
The location offers stunning views of the coastline and Ionian Sea, providing an idyllic setting for the Countess’ residence.
Participants learn about the history and significance of the estate, as well as its connection to the beloved Durrell family.
This stop on the tour offers a glimpse into the world of the Durrells and the opulent homes they encountered during their time in Corfu.
Visit to the White House
Following the scenic northeast coast of Corfu, the tour leads participants to the picturesque village of Kalami, where they can behold the White House – the idyllic seaside retreat where Lawrence Durrell resided alongside his wife Nancy.
Nestled on the shoreline, the charming white villa captivates visitors with its simple elegance and the breathtaking vistas that inspired Durrell’s literary works.
As the group explores the exterior of the property, the guide recounts fascinating anecdotes about the Durrell family’s time in Corfu, transporting them back to the era immortalized in the beloved TV series.
This intimate encounter with the Durrells’ cherished home provides a profound connection to the island’s rich literary heritage and the family’s enduring legacy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Book a Tour for Just Two People?
Yes, you can book this tour for just two people. The tour is a private group experience, so the minimum group size is 1 and the maximum is 15 participants.
Are Food and Drinks Included in the Tour Price?
The tour price does not include food and drinks. Participants can purchase optional food and drinks during the tour. The tour itself covers transportation, a licensed guide, and admission to the sites visited.
Is There a Discount for Seniors or Students?
The tour does not offer any discounts for seniors or students. The price is a flat rate of €550.00 per group of up to 15 participants, regardless of age or student status.
How Long Does the Drive to Kalami Take?
The drive from Corfu Town to Kalami, where the White House is located, takes approximately 30 minutes one-way. The scenic coastal route winds through the northeast region of the island, offering picturesque views along the way.
Do We Get to Go Inside the Durrell Family Homes?
No, the tour does not include access to the interior of the Durrell family homes. The itinerary focuses on exploring the exteriors of significant locations, like the Pink Villa and the White House, and visiting the surrounding gardens and areas featured in the TV series.
Recap
Visitors on this guided tour will discover the enchanting settings that inspired the Durrell family’s literary works and the popular TV series.
From the iconic Pink Villa and serene White House to the lush landscapes and Ionian Sea vistas, the tour offers a captivating glimpse into the Durrells’ remarkable lives.
With historical insights, participants can enjoy the world of this fascinating family.
