Think about what would you include in your list of must-haves that would make up your ideal vacation destination. Planety of sun, minimal chance of rain, warm pleasant temperatures, perfect sandy beaches, clear warm waters, wide choice hotel of apartment accommodation, plenty of quality restaurants and cafes, both lively and relaxed evening options and within easy reach by a cheap flight from home. Sounds like a rare and unlikely dream destination but for many the island of Zante (also known as Zakynthos) is just that.
Zante is situated just off the western coast of southern Greece and has it’s location to thank for it’s year round mild climate. Zante has been a favourite holiday resort for many Europeans ever since. Apart from its fabulous beaches and beautiful villages Zante also has a few of its own holiday attractions. Discovered in 1897, the Blue Caves are well known and situated on the northern tip of the island. Formed by the sea and so named because of the sparkling blue water that fills them, they are a frequent stop-off for tourists exploring the island. Transport to the caves is by boat which can take around 2 hours for the full trip. Trips are cheap and well worth it. Those who have made the trip suggest selecting a small boat rather than a larger one. It makes swimming stops more likely and the boat is more likely to be able to get deeper into the caves. There may be much bigger water parks in other parts of Europe, but Zante’s Water Park in Sarakinarda is great for a family day out. There are around ten different slides to play on and visitors suggest arriving later in the day when the coach trips have left and prices are reduced.
A pleasant way to spend a day on Zante is to visit some of the smaller beaches and villages. Starting at Gerakas at the southern tip of the island the beach at Gerakas is said to be one of the best on the island. The beach is a protected natural area as important nesting sites for birds are nearby. It is frequently deserted and makes a great spot for a relaxing spell on the beach, but visitors are limited in the duration of their stay. Further up the coast is the beach of Porto Roma. This is another quiet beach but there is less sand here. It’s not favoured by water sports enthusiasts so you’re sure of a quiet day here. For the most recommended beach in this area look no further than Banana Beach. It is large, clean and very sandy, with only a small line of pebbles flanking the sea shore. There are plenty of palm sunshades available and the area is not over developed, but the choice of bars and cafes is adequate.
For those planning to get away from the beaches and seeking out a little more culture the main town of Zakynthos ticks many boxes. Situated on the coast and home to many visiting cruise ships the town also has some pretty internal areas, especially some interesting squares, museums and churches. The town suffered an earthquake in 1953 and following that areas had to be rebuilt. Although the area does not experience frequent earth tremors, more recently in February 2009 a small earth quake measuring 3.9 on the Richter scale was recorded just south of the island. Two days earlier another earthquake measuring 4.3 was recorded off the island of Cephalonia. Don’t let worry you though as the town of Zakynthos is well worth a visit. There are hills all around the town, providing spectacular views for anyone wishing to walk up them. The hill of Strani is home to many older buildings and the ruins of an old Venetian Church, while the hill of Bochali is home to a castle, which was damaged by the earthquake of 1953 and a more up-market part of town. Here you will find luxury hotels and restaurants as well as spacious green areas.
Zante retains it’s position as one of the top Greek islands, yet that hasn’t seemed to detract from its original charm and culture.
