Zakynthos, Zante or Zakinthos, however you choose to spell it, is an absolutely beautiful island lying in the Ionian Sea, just off mainland Greece. The third largest of the Ionian Islands, Zante is as captivating as it is beautiful.
Succulent olive groves, juicy citrus trees, fragrant pine forests and luscious vineyards blanket this quaint island which is surrounded by bright white sands and sparkling blue waters. The north of the island has mountainous peaks while the south has more gentle rolling hills ideal for exploring.
The biggest attraction on Zante holidays has to be the beautiful sandy beaches, with the choice of small secluded coves some of which are only reached by boat, or vast stretches of lively sands, ideal for families.
The best example of beautiful coves would have to be in Smugglers Cove where Shipwreck Beach reminds you of pillaging pirates from years gone by. As the name suggests, the ship still lies forlornly on the beach here but the only way to reach it is a short swim from your boat. The vibrant blue waters and startling white sands help to have made this the most photographed place on the island.
Zante has many sea caves, again only reached by boat with the Blue Caves in the north a dazzling example of how the sunlight reflecting off the sea can create a natural and colourful phenomenon. A similar scene can be experienced in the south of the island at Keri Caves, an excursion well worth doing on all Zante holidays.
Village tours will help you explore this charming little island and youll get the chance to experience the local way of life and explore crumbling churches and ancient monasteries. Despite being devastated by an earthquake in 1953, Zante has many historic buildings and sights still worth a visit.
Loggerhead Turtles use some of the beaches at Laganas as a breeding ground so water sports are very limited here and tourists cannot access the beach after sunset in a bid to encourage the turtles to come ashore and lay their eggs.
A boat trip over to Marathonisi Island is the best way to get a glimpse of these creatures, as they play just outside the bay here. You could also swim out from Gerakas Beach to see them but this is only recommended for strong swimmers.
Alikanas and Alikes on the north east coast are the perfect destination for families with safe sandy beaches and calm shallow waters.
Zante holidays combine lush green countryside, calm clear waters, safe sandy beaches and small hidden coves, just as you'd expect on perfect Greek Islands.
You can mix
Zante holidays to perfection with family friendly beaches by day, and lively resorts by night, there really is something here for the whole family.
