Zakynthos: your corner of paradise in the Ionian Sea
Zakynthos, or Zakynthos, is one of the pearls of the Ionian Islands Archipelago, located in the south and separated from the Peloponnese by about ten nautical miles. This Greek island, the third largest of the archipelago, is a perfect mix of mythology, poetry and nature, which makes Zakynthos an ideal destination for a wonderful holiday in Greece. The island was the birthplace of Ugo Foscolo to whom he dedicated an immortal poem and which perfectly represents the soul of Zakynthos.

An island for everyone
Zakynthos is the perfect choice for those looking for a versatile holiday. Families will find safe beaches where children can play safely, couples will fall in love with the breathtaking sunsets admired from a cliff, while the youngest will live unforgettable experiences between adventures and nightlife. An island suitable for all budgets and all needs.

Nature and breathtaking views
With its 400 square kilometers, Zakynthos is an island of great natural contrasts and a true natural paradise. From majestic white cliffs, rocky coasts to mountains covered with lush forests that descend to the valley, rolling hills and wide fertile plains. The golden sandy beaches are lapped by a sea of ​​infinite shades of turquoise, the same that welcomes the Caretta-Caretta turtles during the breeding season. Thanks to its temperate climate and abundant winter rainfall, the island is green all year round, a paradise for nature lovers.

An island between history and myth
Greek mythology tells us that Zakynthos is linked to the Goddess Artemis, who loved to walk in the forests of the island, while her brother Apollo relaxed by playing the lyre. The history of Zakynthos has ancient roots: founded by Zakynthos according to Homer, son of the king of Troy, it has seen Arcadians, Macedonians, Romans, Venetians and English pass under its control, each of whom has left traces of their dominion.

The first inhabitants of Zakynthos were the Arcadians already in 1000 BC. It was later conquered by Arkesios king of Kefalonia and grandfather of Ulysses who made it prosperous and important in trade and maritime traffic. Under Ulysses with twelve ships it took part in the Trojan War and on his return Zakynthos had a long period of peace and prosperity. During the classical period it took part in the Persian Wars and the Peloponnesian War when in the 3rd century BC it was conquered by the Macedonians and later by the Romans. In 1185 the Venetians arrived putting an end to the Byzantine rule that remained there for six centuries. In 1797 after the dissolution of the Venetian Republic it was subjected to the puppet government of France becoming the administrative seat of the Ionian Islands. In 1809 it passed under the English flag which brought advantages such as the form of public assistance but, the governed Maitland with his tyranny gave life to the rebellion of the inhabitants until the secret patriotic society Filiki Eteria was founded which was the basis of the Greek national insurrection that in 1864 proclaimed the union of the entire Hellenic state. The Second World War did not spare it and it was occupied by the Italians and the Germans but the resistance faced the new usurpers with all its strength. In 1953 a violent earthquake razed the city of Zakynthos to the ground but thanks to the Government and the citizens it was entirely rebuilt with love and dedication. Every corner of this island tells a piece of history, making each visit a journey through time.

Must see attractions
For those wondering what to see in Zakynthos, there is no shortage of points of interest. Don’t miss the capital, an elegant city completely rebuilt after the terrible earthquake that almost erased its past traces, but which has been skillfully restored to its splendor. It extends across the entire bay and offers its visitors not only a spectacular sea, but also its Venetian fortress that dominates from the top of the hill where you can enjoy a breathtaking view. Nothing is missing in Zante Town: shops, typical taverns, restaurants, night clubs, cafes, accommodation facilities, here you can meet any need. Visit the church of Saint Dionysus dedicated to the patron saint with its enchanting frescoes, Solomos Square, the largest and central square of the town, which owes its name to the Greek poet Dionysos Saloms, who wrote the verses of the Greek National Anthem, the Byzantine Museum or the Public Library, the church of Saint Nicholas of the Molos, one of the few buildings that did not collapse during the earthquake, or Villa Romas, a 17th century residence once owned by an English merchant with its Anglo-Saxon atmosphere, also fortunately spared by the earthquake.

If you want a more “rustic” Zakynthos, you will necessarily have to visit its villages. Bochali just above the capital, the classic mountain village with a few houses and narrow streets that smell of jasmine where you can dine by candlelight while admiring a memorable panorama, or Volimes between fairy-tale pine forests and overhanging white rocks, and also Mikro Nisi and Agios Nikolaos on the coast small fishing villages where you can enjoy excellent fresh fish and Alykes in an ideal position for its proximity to the major attractions.

From a naturalistic point of view you will only be spoiled for choice. Let’s start with the Blue Caves, rock formations smoothed by atmospheric events, with white cliffs that follow one after the other along the coast where the water has incredible reflections that change according to the sun’s rays, the Keri caves with its small strips of sand wedged between the cliffs where you can relax, the Mizithres, two scenic white rocks that magically emerge from the sea, and finally the National Marine Park, a protected area that includes the entire bay of Laganas and the satellite islands of Zakynthos, the Strofades and the island of Marathonissi, small lost paradises where turtles come to nest and where Mediterranean monk seals live, as well as many species of fauna and flora thanks to its variety of habitats.

The beaches: a daydream
Zakynthos Beaches are one of the main reasons why this island is such a popular destination. The most famous and iconic of Greece is Shipwreck Beach, with its vertiginous cliffs and crystal clear water and its legendary wreck, but the Makris Gialos beach is no less, perfect for those looking for a Caribbean atmosphere, or Gerakas, loved by turtles for nesting.

For lovers of water sports, the Porto Limnionas fjord offers ideal waters for snorkeling and underwater adventures. And if you prefer a relaxing holiday, you will find many hidden and quiet beaches.

Nightlife and social life
Zakynthos is not just nature and relaxation: it is also one of the liveliest destinations for those who love to have fun. If you want to discover the nightlife of the island, the liveliest areas are Zante Town and Laganas, where you will find clubs, bars and parties that liven up the evenings until dawn.

Why choose Zakynthos?
A holiday in Zakynthos means immersing yourself in the unique natural beauty that Mother Nature has designed, relaxing on dream beaches, tasting traditional Greek cuisine and discovering a thousand-year-old history. Whether you are looking for adventure, relaxation or culture, Zakynthos has everything you need for an unforgettable holiday.

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