Almost triangular in shape, Zakynthos (Zantes) or the “Flower of the Orient”, as it is well known has two green mountainous promontories extending into the sea to form the huge bay of Laganas. There are more pine-covered mountains and hills in the north, but the centre is gentle and lush, richly planted with currant vines, olive trees, almonds and seasonal vegetables. There are dozens of beaches to choose from, sandy and sheltered with invitingly sparkling water. Flowers of every kind fill every available space, filling the air with the scent that so enraptured visitors of old. The island has typical Mediterranean climate consisting of hot, sunny summers and mild, rainy winters. Known to be one of the sunniest places in Greece, rainy days in summer are very rare. With this in mind, the island lends itself to great weather for exploring. An island graciously offers emerald beaches, mountains full of pine trees, wonderful flowers, dreamy caves, traditional architecture and picturesque little streets with alleys and arches. Smugglers Cove, Blue Caves and the small, uninhabited island of Marathonissi, with its amazing greenery, stunning rock formations, caves and beautiful sandy beaches will make you feel as though you are on a paradise island. The Shipwreck (Navagio) is the most famous of Zakynthos beaches and one of the most famous photographs of Greece. The beach of Agios Nikolaos owns its name to the little chapel, which stands on the left side end; this beach is smaller than but as beautiful as Banana Beach has a restaurant and a bar. Laganas Beach is the most popular and developed on Zakynthos. The little pine-clad islet of Agios Sostis, located opposite the beach of Laganas, and can be reached by a lovely wooden bridge. Go swimming in the company of sea turtles, go snorkeling or scuba diving between rocks and in underwater caves. Take a sailboat out or go surfing. The long waterfront extending between the Solomos Square (on its right) and the Church of Agios Dionysios, saint patron of the island (on its left) is the most popular and crowded place of Zakynthos, gathering many restaurants, tourist shops and ferry agencies. There are many ancient sights to see too. Be sure to visit The Post-Byzantine Art Museum, Museum of Grigorios Xenopoulos, Museum of Dionysios Solomos and Eminent Zakynthians, Vertzagio Folk Museum, the churches of Agia Mavra, Agios Georgios Filikon, Agios Dionysios and the monasteries of Anafonitria, Agios Georgios Gremon and Saint John the Baptist, while you’re here. There are so many beautiful and picturesque villages on this magical island. The mountainous villages are particularly traditional and have kept superb old mansions, which have survived the earthquakes of 1953. Lovely fishing villages embellish the coastline of the island and are built near the many wonderful beaches mentioned above. The nightlife of Zakynthos is exciting and has much to offer. Concentrated in the beach resorts of Argasi, Laganas, Alykes and Tsilivi, numerous bars and nightclubs can be found offering various kind of music for those who want to dance all night long. The capital of the island does not have a lot of bars or nightclubs, mostly just restaurants, taverns and cafes. As with all the beautiful islands of Greece, there are a plethora of places available to accommodate your stay. Choose villas, apartments, hotels, studios and the like for a memorable stay. Your ship waits to bring you to the wonderful and fun-filled island of Zakynthos. So book your vacation today and enjoy the memories for a lifetime. |