Zakynthos

The beautiful island is relatively large, covering an area of 406 kilometres, and has a population of 40,000 people. Its capital is an old harbour town, also called Zakynthos, which is a hub of tourist activity. Outside of the capital, the island is famous for its gorgeous beaches and stunning white cliffs, making it the ideal holiday destination for those who love beautiful natural scenery. The island is also suitable for anyone interested in an island-hopping holiday.

Zakynthos is characterised by a warm summer climate, making it ideal for people who want to enjoy the sparkling blue waters of the Ionian Sea. The hottest months of the year are June, July, and August, when the temperature regularly sits in the high twenties, the sea is warm, and rain is incredibly rare. Zakynthos is also fortunate to have warm springs and autumns, meaning it can be visited as early as April and remains hot well into October.

Inhabited since Neolithic times, Homer even mentioned it in the Iliad. It became rich, due to its important strategic location, with inhabitants of the island establishing colonies in Crete, Paros and Spain. It remained neutral during the Persian wars, before joining the Athenian side in the Peloponnesian War. This meant that it became an oligarchy after Athens’ defeat, passing through Macedonian and then Roman rule, in the forthcoming centuries. Zakynthos became a Venetian state, known as the Flower of the East, before eventually falling to the Ottomans in the 15th century. The island then alternated between French and British control in the 19th century, before eventually joining the newly established Greek state in 1864.

Some of the most well-known dishes on the island include the stuffed rabbit, as well as Greek classics like souvlaki, gyros, and stifado, all of which are eaten regularly. The island also has a wide selection of fish dishes, including mullet and swordfish. There are also a number of authentic desserts on the island, including kadaifi, a sweet spiced with cinnamon and syrup.

The island paradise of Marathonissi is ideal for wildlife enthusiasts, due to its large population of sea turtles that breed on the beaches of the island. The Tsilivi Waterpark is a beautifully situated waterpark offering aquatic fun for people of all ages. Moreover, there are many beaches and sea caves that populate the island’s coastline and are ideal for those who love to snorkel or dive. With its diverse offerings, a family holiday to Zakynthos is sure to be one to remember.

The famous Navagio Beach is an isolated cove that can only be accessed by boat. It is renowned for the lonely shipwrecked boat that rests upon its sands and is a must for anyone on the island. Visitors should also go to the uninhabited island of Marathonissi, an unspoilt area, where sea turtles breed. In addition, there is also a host of great diving sites around the island, including the blue caves, which can be visited by canoe or as part of a boat tour.

The island does not disappoint for its entertainment and is one of the best Greek islands for nightlife, with a myriad of bars and restaurants. The best region to visit is Laganas, with both the waterfront and the main street populated with clubs. Other nightlife destinations include Tsilivi and Argassi, two other popular beach resorts, as well as Zakynthos Town itself. The island also has a wide selection of tavernas and bars, ideal for friends and families.