Kefalonia · September 2026
Captain Corelli's Mandolin
A week of literary discovery, island beauty and Ionian sea-side charm
Captain Corelli's Mandolin by Louis de Bernières
The experience
Step into the world of Captain Corelli's Mandolin
Join us for a week on the beautiful Greek island of Kefalonia, the setting that Louis de Bernières brought so vividly to life in Captain Corelli's Mandolin.
Explore olive-clad hills, hidden coves and charming villages, discover the island's history and enjoy plenty of time to read, relax and talk about the book with fellow book lovers.
It is a holiday where the book gives us a reason to explore, but there is also plenty of time simply to enjoy Kefalonia.
At a glance
Your Kefalonia reading holiday
The book
Captain Corelli's Mandolin
Set on Kefalonia during the Second World War, Louis de Bernières' much-loved novel brings together love, music, conflict and the lives of the island's inhabitants.
The story of Corelli, Pelagia and the people of Kefalonia offers a fascinating way into the island's history and landscape.
Reading the novel in Kefalonia gives the story another dimension. The places, landscapes and coastline become more than descriptions on a page.
The place
Kefalonia through the eyes of the book
Kefalonia is an island of dramatic mountains, clear blue water, olive groves and quiet villages. It is also the landscape that gives Captain Corelli's Mandolin much of its atmosphere.
During the trip we'll explore places connected with the novel, including the harbour at Sami and the beautiful coastline around Antisamos.
There will be time to discover the island together, as well as time to wander, read by the sea or simply enjoy the Greek sunshine at your own pace.
The experience
Highlights of the trip
Explore Kefalonia
Discover the island and places connected with the story, including Sami and Antisamos.
Read together
Spend time discussing Captain Corelli's Mandolin in the landscape that inspired the novel.
Local food and wine
Enjoy group meals, traditional tavernas and a local wine tasting experience.
Greek island life
There is also time for beaches, villages, walks and enjoying the island at your own pace.
Greek night
Enjoy an evening of Greek food, music and good company.
Meet fellow readers
Shared meals and conversations make it easy to get to know other people who love books.
September 2026
Ready to discover Kefalonia?
Our group is deliberately small, creating a relaxed and sociable atmosphere. The trip is organised in partnership with Designer Travel, who will confirm accommodation, itinerary and pricing at the time of booking.
Enquire about this trip