Zakynthos or Zante, home to a wealth of natural wonders, is an ideal holiday spot. There are a lot of things to do in this “Green Island”. Here are some of the activities you can indulge in while holidaying in Zakynthos.
Book a Boat trip
The island is famous for its Blue Caves. They were discovered in 1897 by Antonio Komouto. Inside the caves you will find the stunning turquoise water, hence the name. You can take a boat ride to the caves, situated just under the lighthouse. To give you a great view of the marine life below, the boats are glass-bottomed.
Visit Navagio Bay
Navagio Bay is also known as the Smugglers’ Cove and Shipwreck Bay. In the whole of Greece this is one of the most beautiful beaches situated near the charming Volimes, a mountain village.
Head to Zante Town
In the 1953 earthquake many of the buildings in Zante Town were destroyed. They were later rebuilt in traditional Venetian style. The quaint town has lovely squares and pretty paved streets. The church of Aghios Dionysios, where Zakynthos’ patron saint is buried, is a must visit. The town has a flourishing art scene as well.
Bask in the sunset
At the tiny village of Kampi watch the stunning view of the sun disappearing into the sea from the peak of the cliff. You’ll come across the Shiva cross on the cliff, which is around 300m above sea level. It is the Greek civil war memorial.
Visit the beautiful islet of Marathonisi
The islet of Marathonisi, the nesting homes of the famed Greek loggerhead turtles, is situated in the middle of the Laganas Bay. You can take a boat to reach this beautiful islet, which is shaped like a turtle.
Sunbathe at Gerakas beach
The beautiful beach of Gerakas is home to the Sea Turtle and Wildlife Information Centre. The wildlife of Zante and its rich heritage are looked after by this centre. It also works to protect the turtles from extinction.
Indulge in some water-sports
At St Nicholas Bay on the south of the island you can enjoy water-sports. From ringo rides to banana boats and paragliding and canoeing, you’ll find everything here. There are also plenty of bars next to the beach to quench your thirst.
Go scuba diving
One of the best locations for scuba diving is Zante. ‘Lobster claw’ peninsula, which lies in the east of the island, offers great conditions for diving. At the beautiful Keri Caves you can also take diving lessons.
Sightseeing
A visit to the small village of Anafonitria is a must visit for those who love history and architecture. The Byzantine monastery built in the 15th century is a study in architecture. It is built in honour of the Virgin Mary. Zante’s patron saint Agios Dionysios spent his last years here.
Take an adventurous safari
To uncover the island’s hidden gems a safari will be just right. It will take you from the coast into the heart of Zante. The drivers usually double up as guides showing you places you would miss otherwise.
