This historically important, seafront 18th-century villa was used as the Durrell’s house in the TV series. The house stands within 2 acres of verdant gardens, looking out over the Bay of Corfu. It is a short walk away from Gouvia Marina and within easy reach of Corfu’s famous Old Town. Just below the terrace walls is a secluded shingle beach and jetty; within the grounds, there’s a tennis court and pool.
Inside, antique pieces sit harmoniously alongside carefully chosen modern furnishings. The recent meticulous renovation ensures this beautiful home retains its historic character but with a new sense of vibrancy and modern luxuries. On the ground floor, there’s an elegant, high-ceilinged drawing and dining room and an amazing bathroom containing a marble bath, originally from Empress Elizabeth (Sisi) of Austria’s summer residence. The kitchen is fitted with state-of-the-art appliances. Doors on this floor give access to both the gardens and the outdoor dining terrace. Bedrooms are on the upper two floors, all with stripped wooden floors, rugs, beds with supremely comfortable mattresses and modern en suites. The two on the first floor have antique brass bed frames and sea views. The master suite has its own spacious drawing room. The three bedrooms on the second floor retain the original sloped wooden beamed ceilings.
The seafront terrace is the perfect spot for a leisurely breakfast or moonlit dinner. If you’ve watched ‘The Durrells’, you will recognise this spot, with the house behind and the sea in front. A further eating area is found to the side of the house, shaded by a canopy. Within the mature gardens are places to sit in both sun and shade, whilst the sea here is wonderful for snorkelling and searching for sea glass. Or take in the views from the sun loungers set out on the jetty.
Gouvia Marina is about a 15-minute walk. There are lots of bars, cafes, restaurants, shops, and a supermarket. There are also beaches at Gouvia and Kontokali. Boat hire can be found a 5-minute walk away. Drive up the coast to visit Kassiopi and Avlaki, both with beaches, water sports, boat hire, tavernas, bars and shops. Kassiopi also has a vibrant nightlife. Corfu Town is a short drive. Explore the charming UNESCO-registered old town with Venetian architecture, narrow streets, and a wealth of shops and restaurants. The modern part of the town has many boutique fashion stores, jewellers and upmarket restaurants.