Hidden Corfu
19.05.17 | OliverMain Photo: ITV
The Ionian Island of Corfu will again be in the public eye with the launch of the second series of ‘The Durrells’ on ITV (episode one was shown on Sunday 23 April). Set on Corfu, the series is based on Gerald Durrell’s semi-autobiographical ‘My Family and Other Animals’; a book that became an instant classic on its publication in 1956.
We are delighted that the ITV series not only tells the story of the young Gerald Durrell’s life on the island but also highlights the warm hospitality and welcoming nature of the Greek people; something that we love and that we know our clients do too.
It has also helped to shine light on what is an oft’ overlooked island. Many believe that Corfu has lost its Greek charm and style but this could not be further from the truth. We encourage you to head a little inland and explore the forests of ancient olive trees and the sleepy hill villages with their pastel-coloured old houses and crumbling Venetian-style bell towers, or to visit one of the island’s charming seaside hamlets in the scenic north east where you will discover an island certainly still recognisable from that enjoyed by the Durrell family.
Mountainous Interior
The Durrell’s loved the interior of Corfu and it is easy to see why! The hillsides are peppered with olive groves, citrus trees and wild pine, and the cool mountain air offers a welcome break from the heat of the coast.
The interior has changed little over recent years and all around are scenes of picturesque houses crumbling with age, pretty churches and villages that time forgot – this is a side of Corfu that few visit but one that we are sure you will treasure.
Why not stay at Fundana Villas, where the original TV series was filmed some 20 years ago? Contact us for more details.
Wildlife
Gerald Durrell’s upbringing on Corfu gave him a life-long love of nature and animals. Due to its sub-tropical climate and diverse landscape Corfu is home to a fabulous variety of mammals, birds and reptiles, including hedgehogs, bats, martens, moles, snakes (all non-poisonous bar vipers!), tortoises, terrapins, not to mention a rich insect and birdlife.
Corfu has four designated nature reserves including Lake Korisson, the location of Villa Halikounas. Get up close to the island’s rich biodiversity. Contact us for availability and prices at Villa Halikounas.
Corfu Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
The capital of the island is the perfect choice for a short city break, as part of a tailor-made itinerary or for a week long stay. Its Venetian architecture is guaranteed to impress, as are the bustling narrow lanes, cobbled squares and the fortifications of Castel a Mare.
Shopping is excellent here and there is an array of traditional and international restaurants. Not to be missed is the roof terrace bar at the Cavalieri Hotel from where visitors can watch the evening set in – the cocktails are great too. Please contact us for more details and prices at the Cavalieri Hotel.
Exclusive Durrell’s Package
We are also pleased to be able to offer a fantastic package at the Corfu Imperial Grecotel Exclusive Resort which offers an exclusive collection of Venetian-style suites with 360 degree-views of the Ionian Sea and Kommeno peninsula. Here, private bays, luxurious villas with direct sea access and award-winning restaurants with extensive verandas represent the best of Greek hospitality and ooze romance. It’s the perfect setting for honeymoons and weddings.
The Durrells package at Corfu Imperial includes the following:
• Daily breakfast buffet
• Bottle of wine and fruit in room upon arrival
• Complimentary private tour (including round-trip transfer) of Grecotel Danillia Village, culminating in a signature Corfu Koum Kouat Cocktail
• Private transfer to The Durrells’ ‘White House’, a prized villa overlooking the beach.
For more information, and to make your holiday booking to Corfu, please contact us on 01543 258631 or e-mail us at vip@rbcollection.com
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