Corfu in Film & Literature, From James Bond to Durrell

Corfu in Film & Literature, From James Bond to DurrellIntroduction: An Island That Inspires

Corfu is more than an idyllic holiday destination; it is a muse. Over the decades, the island’s lush landscapes, Venetian architecture, and sparkling Ionian waters have provided the perfect backdrop for filmmakers and authors alike. From high-octane espionage in James Bond to the tender, humorous reflections of Gerald Durrell, Corfu has been immortalized in works that span genres and audiences.

In this journey through reel and page, we explore how Corfu’s beauty, culture, and atmosphere have inspired stories known worldwide — and why the island remains a living stage for both cinema and literature.

Corfu on the Big Screen1. James Bond’s “For Your Eyes Only” (1981)

When For Your Eyes Only hit cinemas in 1981, audiences around the world got a taste of Corfu’s glamour. Starring Roger Moore as James Bond, the film used the island’s dramatic coastline and historic architecture as a backdrop for action-packed scenes.

Filming Locations:

• Achilleion Palace – The ornate palace built by Empress Elisabeth of Austria doubled as the villa of the film’s villain, adding royal grandeur to the spy thriller.
• Kanoni & Mouse Island – Aerial shots captured the postcard-perfect scenery.
• Corfu Town – Narrow streets and neoclassical buildings brought authentic Mediterranean charm to the screen.

The film’s success introduced millions of viewers to Corfu’s cinematic potential and remains a point of pride for locals.

2. Other Notable Films

While James Bond put Corfu in the global spotlight, other productions have also made use of its visual appeal:

• The Executioner (1970) – This Cold War spy thriller utilized Corfu’s harbor and coastal roads for suspenseful sequences.
• Fedora (1978) by Billy Wilder – Blending glamour and mystery, it took advantage of the island’s timeless elegance.
• My Family and Other Animals (2005 BBC Adaptation) – Bringing Gerald Durrell’s beloved memoir to life, filmed largely on location.

Corfu in Literature1. The Durrell Legacy

Perhaps no writer has shaped the modern literary image of Corfu more than Gerald Durrell. In his autobiographical Corfu Trilogy — My Family and Other Animals, Birds, Beasts and Relatives, and The Garden of the Gods — Durrell painted an affectionate, humorous, and vivid portrait of his family’s years on the island in the 1930s.

Why Durrell Matters:

• His books capture the island’s biodiversity, from exotic insects to shy tortoises.
• The interplay between eccentric expatriates and hospitable locals creates timeless comedic charm.
• His work has inspired multiple adaptations, including the ITV series The Durrells (2016–2019), filmed entirely in Corfu.

2. Lawrence Durrell

Gerald’s older brother, Lawrence Durrell, also found inspiration in Corfu. His novel Prospero’s Cell is a lyrical travel memoir that captures the island’s atmosphere with poetic elegance. Unlike Gerald’s light-hearted tone, Lawrence’s work is meditative, evoking the island as a timeless sanctuary.

3. Other Literary Connections

• Patrick Leigh Fermor – Though best known for his travel writings on mainland Greece, he often referenced Corfu in his exploration of Greek culture.
• Nikos Dimou – Greek essays that touch on Corfu’s identity in the broader cultural landscape.

Why Corfu Works on Screen and Page

The island’s success as both a film set and literary subject lies in a combination of factors:

• Versatile Landscapes – Beaches, mountains, olive groves, and fortresses offer visual variety.
• Architectural Diversity – Venetian, French, and British influences provide authentic historical backdrops.
• Atmosphere – A blend of Mediterranean light, Ionian colors, and old-world charm creates a unique mood.

For literature, Corfu’s layered history, colorful characters, and slow-paced lifestyle offer endless narrative possibilities.

Touring Corfu Through Its Stories1. Film Locations Tour

Visitors can recreate famous scenes:

• Walk the grounds of Achilleion Palace as Bond did.
• Stroll through Corfu Town’s Liston Arcade, featured in several productions.
• Take in the view from Kanoni, as seen in countless establishing shots.

2. Literary Pilgrimage

• Durrell House in Kontokali – The family’s first home in Corfu, though privately owned, can be admired from outside.
• Kalami Bay – Lawrence Durrell’s former residence, the White House, now a taverna and guesthouse.
• Mon Repos Estate – Appearing in adaptations of Durrell’s works.

Impact on Tourism and Culture

Film and literature have played a significant role in shaping Corfu’s modern tourism identity. Fans of The Durrells flock to filming sites, while Bond enthusiasts seek out the Achilleion. This cultural tourism not only boosts the local economy but also deepens visitors’ connection to the island’s heritage.

Preserving the Reel and Written Heritage

Efforts are underway to maintain filming locations and literary landmarks:

• Restoration Projects – Achilleion Palace underwent extensive renovation to preserve its historical features.
• Cultural Events – Book readings, Durrell-themed festivals, and film screenings keep the legacy alive.

Tips for Visitors

• Best Time to Visit – Spring and autumn for softer light and fewer crowds.
• Bring a Book – Reading Prospero’s Cell or My Family and Other Animals while on the island adds layers to the experience.
• Camera Ready – Many locations look as cinematic today as they did decades ago.

Corfu as an Endless Story

Whether captured through a camera lens or the written word, Corfu continues to enchant and inspire. Its ability to embody both adventure and tranquility makes it a rare setting that serves spy thrillers, romantic memoirs, and nature writing with equal grace.

To walk in the footsteps of James Bond or to see the world through the eyes of the Durrells is to discover that Corfu itself is the true star — a timeless muse for storytellers and dreamers alike.