The cream of the crop on Corfu with Sunvil

Inspired by the final series of The Durrells airing this spring, Sunvil picks the best trips to this idyllic island

Follow in the footsteps of The Durrells, as the much-loved ITV series returns for its final series in April, and head to Corfu, where the family lived during the 1930s. The Ionian island is ever-popular with families and those looking to explore its natural beauty, calming vibe and heavenly beaches.

Here are the top spots where holidaymakers are heading, as they look to explore Corfu’s lesser-known spots away from the crowds and get a taste of the Durrells’ life.

Kalami Bay, North East Corfu – home to the Durrell family

The trademark of this upmarket region is a bay in the shape of a horseshoe, leading into the Ionian Sea. It’s where yachts of all sizes moor and the cosmopolitan crowd like to relax. Kalami was home to Lawrence and Nancy Durrell for a time, and the ground floor of their house has since been converted to the well-known taverna, The White House. Stay at the delightful Kalami Bay residence, exclusive to Sunvil. It overlooks the sea and features a large freshwater pool, just a few minutes’ walk from the beach and a good choice of tavernas and cafés. A pleasant walk over the headland leads to attractive white-pebble Yaliskari beach and peaceful Agni. Departing 6 May, a seven-night self-catering holiday costs from £409 pp (two sharing a studio apartment), including flights (Gatwick) and transfers.

Barbati, North East Corfu – peaceful and pristine

Perfect for couples and small families alike looking for a peaceful break with direct beach access, Barbati village features a long shingle/pebble beach and a mix of relaxed cafés, restaurants and shops, from traditionally Greek to modern trendy hangouts. It’s also a great spot for water sports and motor boat hire. Stay at Barbati Beach Suite, where couples or small families can enjoy the open-plan layout, contemporary interior and outdoor hot-tub, located just 50m from Barbati Beach and a short stroll from waterfront cafés and bars. Departing 6 May, a seven-night self-catering holiday costs from £549 pp (two sharing a one-bedroom suite), including flights (Manchester) and car hire.

Bay of St George, North West Corfu – the destination for discerning couples

Set in the village of Acharavi on the northern coast, this 8km golden sandy beach is impeccably clean and features a range of beachfront cafés and tavernas. Stay at long-established St George’s Bay Country Club, with its peaceful and beautiful surroundings aimed at discerning couples. Take time out in the subtropical garden with its palm grove and abundance of tropical plants from all over the world, unwind amidst the mountain views in the wellness spa, or dine on Greek and international cuisine at the beachfront restaurant. Departing 13 May, a seven-night B&B stay costs from £1,074 pp (two sharing), including flights (Gatwick) and transfers.

Paleokastritsa, North West Corfu – caves, coves and captivating beauty

This lively village and famous beauty spot is nestled within wooded hills and olive groves and features six beaches, coves and caves, plus the 13th-century Angelokastro (Byzantine castle). Stay at the Paleokastritsa Beach Cottage, located in Paleokastritsa’s middle bay; the cottage’s central location provides easy access to local tavernas, shops and café-bars. A small sand/shingle beach, known to few, is just a minute’s walk away, and a five-minute stroll brings you to another beach, with water sports and boat hire, allowing guests to explore the sea caves, nearby beaches and coves. Departing 6 May, a seven-night self-catering stay costs from £419 pp (two sharing), including flights (Manchester), a day’s motorboat hire and transfers.

Liapades, North West Corfu – great for wine and walking

Relatively untouched by tourists, this traditional Greek village on the west coast is 5km from Paleokastritsa, 20 km from Corfu Town and is known for its excellent local wine. Stay at the Fundana Villas, a country estate where the BBC filmed much of ‘My Family and other Animals’ some 30 years ago. The original manor house dates back to Venetian times and sets the tone for the genuine flavour of ‘old Corfu’ that you’ll find here. Walking here is lovely amidst spring flowers early in the season and you can enjoy fabulous views of the island and its seascapes. Departing 6 May, a seven-night self-catering stay in a villa costs from £834 pp (two sharing), including flights (Gatwick) and car hire.

All Sunvil holidays include flights, accommodation, 20 kg luggage pp, transfers and the services of a local representative.

Sunvil has been a keen proponent of sustainable travel since 1988 and has made significant efforts to improve the issue of rubbish disposal on Corfu, which is a challenge on islands worldwide. Environmental initiatives include recycling projects specifically on Corfu, installing plastic crushers in properties, projects with Recycling Greece to reduce and recycle plastic waste and clearing paths and improving signage for travellers keen on walking.

Call Sunvil on 020 8758 4758 or visit www.sunvil.co.uk.

Notes to Editors: Award-winning holiday specialist Sunvil has pioneered many fascinating destinations in its 49-year history, and has been at the forefront of environmental initiatives and good practice, protecting its destinations and ensuring that local people benefit from tourism, for 30 years.

Press: For further information, to request high-res photography or to interview Chris Wright, Managing Director of Sunvil, please contact Jackie Franklin or Charlotte Griffiths at Travel PR on 020 8891 4440, or email j.franklin@travelpr.co.uk or c.griffiths@travelpr.co.uk.