Zakynthos (Zante) island is Greek`s 3rd biggest and most southern Ionian Island. It is 300 kilometers away from Athens, the capital of Greece. With heavy rains throughout the winter season and and heavy sunshine throughout the summer season the climate in Zakynthos is considered to be mild Mediterranean. Main drivers of Zakynthos’ local economy are tourism, citrus fruits, olives, and raisins. The island has lots of gorgeous beaches and caverns to explore.
Zakynthos has truly remarkable natural wonders. Zakynthos Underwater Caves or The Blue Caves, which can be found at Volimes, on the West Coast of the Island are something that every visitor must see. While you can get to them only by sea there is no shortage of visitors. The beautiful waters and gorgeous views keep the visitors rolling in.
Another natural wonder is the Askos Stone Park, which is also situated at Volimes Village. The park was called after the stone structures that are cluttered throughout. These well-known basins were carved out over 600 years ago by rainwater. At the park visitors will have the ability to see hawks, doves, rabbits, peacocks, deers, ponies, horses, cows, goats, sheep, turtles, and chinchillas. They will see all these animals together with the natural plants that grow there.
Smugglers Cove Zante. One of the most beautiful beaches in Greece, Navagio Beach is located on the North-West coast of Zakynthos island. This hard to access sandy cove is known as the best-photographed beaches in Greece. Some time ago Navagio Beach was known as Agios Georgios and later it became a ship graveyard when its shores were washed upon by the MV Panayiotis in October 1980. Marble cliffs and white sand at Navagio Beach make it a great spot for sunbathing and swimming. Navagio Beach is also known as the “Shipwreck Beach”.
The Gerakas beach is another great option. It has long sandy beaches and blue-green water to accompany its natural charm. The beach is protected, as it is the home of the Caretta-Caretta Sea Turtles, which are endangered. The Gerakas beach is the best place for a day of relaxation.
The Post Byzantine Art Museum is located in Town at Solomos Square. The Museum shows valuable icons, frescoes from the 16th and 19th centuries, documents and images of Zakynthos from before the earthquake that occurred in 1953. For local history and art there is no better place to go to than the Post Byzantine Art Museum.
The water is continually beckoning travelers and residents alike. One popular site to go to is Water Village. Water Village is 40,000 square meters of water fun for the entire family. The are 9 water slides, family rafting, free fall areas, a lazy river, swimming pools, a mini golf course, mini cars, trampolines, and bungee castles. They also have snack bars and lockers for visitors.
After a full day of exploring, there is absolutely nothing better than enjoying a delicious meal. The terrific homemade recipes that are from generation to generation. Zakynthos’ local flavour originates from the Ionian Sea, mountains, and warm climate. Specialties of Zakynthos are Stuffed Chicken or Rabbit and Beef Ragout. 2 excellent places to try are Avriakos Estate in Vanato and the Alitzerini Tavern at Kiliomeno.
If you are into bars and night clubs, then you should definitely check out the Laganas. Renowned for its nightlife, Laganas is one of Zante’s top party spots; in fact, one of the best party destinations in Greece! It’s a great place to come to if your idea of the perfect holiday involves sun, sea, sand, and dancing until dawn. Laganas nightlife revolves around The Strip, a main street packed with bars, pubs and clubs which stretch as far as the eye can see.
The Zakynthos Island is centrally located among the Ionian Islands and the mainland allowing for easy travel. There are few ways to reach the Zakynthos Island – by plane, car, ferryboats, and by bus. The airport in Athens provides a connecting flight that is just 45 minutes long. Tourists with cars can board the ferryboat at Kyllini. There is a regular every day ferryboat that only takes an hour. Buses can be taken from either Athens or Patras. Zakynthos Island is an exceptional choice for great holiday time.
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