May 2027 · Corfu
My Family and Other Animals in Corfu
21 May 2027 · 7 nights · Ipsos, Corfu
Spend a week in the beautiful Greek island that Gerald Durrell turned into one of the most memorable settings in modern travel writing and discover Corfu through My Family and Other Animals.
Corfu through a book
A week in the world of Gerald Durrell
My Family and Other Animals is one of those books that makes you want to visit the place it describes. Gerald Durrell's affectionate, funny account of life in Corfu is full of wildlife, family eccentricities, landscapes and the pleasures of simply being somewhere beautiful.
This reading retreat gives us the chance to enjoy that same combination of books, sunshine, good food and time to explore. There will be opportunities to visit places connected with the book, but there is also plenty of time to relax, read and enjoy Corfu at your own pace.
At a glance
Your Corfu reading retreat
The book
My Family and Other Animals
Gerald Durrell's much-loved memoir brings together the eccentric Durrell family, the wildlife of Corfu and the island's landscapes, villages and gardens.
Rather than simply reading about Corfu, this trip lets us experience some of the places and atmosphere behind the book. We will have time to talk about the novel together, share favourite passages and explore the island that inspired it.
And because this is a Books in Places trip, the book is only part of the experience. There is time for beaches, long lunches, walks, swimming and simply finding somewhere shady to sit with a book.
The place
Corfu, just as you imagined it
Corfu is a wonderful setting for a reading retreat, with clear water, green hills, olive groves, colourful villages and the atmospheric streets of Corfu Town.
We are staying in Ipsos, a relaxed resort on the east coast of the island. Apollo Studios sits against a mountainous backdrop and is around a 10 to 15 minute walk from the beach and resort centre.
During the week there will be optional visits to places that help bring the book to life, including Danilia Village, Kalami Bay and Corfu Town.
The experience
A holiday shaped around the book
Read where the story began
Spend time on the island that provided the setting and inspiration for Durrell's wonderfully eccentric family memoir.
Visit Danilia Village
Join an optional visit to this atmospheric traditional village, also known for its appearance in The Durrells.
Explore beyond the resort
Optional excursions give you the chance to discover more of the island, including Corfu Town and some of its historic sights.
Time to read by the sea
There is no need to fill every day. Beach time, sunshine, swimming and a good book are all part of the experience.
Books in Places
Talking about books is part of the holiday
Our hosted evenings are a chance to talk about My Family and Other Animals with other people who have actually come to Corfu because they love books.
There are four included dinners during the week, with plenty of time for conversation over the book, the island and whatever else we have been reading lately.
There will also be an opportunity for everyone to share a favourite book of their own, with our relaxed “A Book I Love” evening.
Where you'll stay
Apollo Studios in Ipsos
Our base for the week is the 3-star Apollo Studios, a small property surrounded by greenery and mountains and within walking distance of the beach and local restaurants.
Studios include air conditioning, a kitchenette, safe, hairdryer and balcony, with an outdoor pool for relaxing between days out.
The setting is deliberately relaxed, giving you somewhere comfortable to return to after exploring the island.
Travelling alone?
Come on your own. You won't be on your own.
Most guests on Books in Places trips travel alone, and this Corfu week is designed with that in mind.
You will have your own space and plenty of freedom, but there are also dinners, book discussions and shared experiences where it is easy to get to know people.
Some guests spend their days together. Others disappear with a book for a few hours and meet everyone again later. There is no pressure to do everything as a group.
What's included
Your week in Corfu
- 7 nights at Apollo Studios in Ipsos
- Studio accommodation for sole use
- Breakfast each day
- 4 hosted dinners with half-bottle of wine and water
- Return airport transfers in Corfu
- ATOL-bonded flights from the UK and Ireland
- Regional flight options available
- Books in Places hosted reading experience
- Optional visits to Danilia Village, Kalami Bay and Corfu Town
May 2027 · Corfu
Ready for a week in Corfu?
Join Books in Places for seven nights of sunshine, books, good company and the world of Gerald Durrell.
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