Zakynthos Holidays
Resort

"Lively, sporty, fun and - in places - intimate; Zakynthos is alive: you can feel it! It's an island of memorable moments..."

Zakynthos, the third largest of the Ionian Islands , has long been a source of inspiration for its many visitors. The Venetians dubbed it "Fiore di Levante", the flower of the orient, because of its rich and colourful landscape. Today's visitors are left equally awe-struck by the lands natural beauty and the clear waters that surround it.

The inland cenery of lush hills and plunging valleys that are home to vineyards and olive groves is matched by the beauty of the coast. Swathes of sandy beach exist alongside spectacular, jagged cliffs that have been sculpted by the tides of the Aegean Sea . Mysterious features such as Smugglers' Cove, with its enigmatic, half-buried wreck, and the iridescent Blue Grotto characterise a unique coastline. On the southern coast of Zakynthos it's not just the tourists who are looking for a place on the sand, Loggerhead Turtles have made the beaches their home as well. Exploring the coast and inland is a rewarding activity since many of the villages such as Alikes, Tragaki and Tsivili retain much of their authentic charm. Indeed Zakynthos is a treasure chest of an island that will continually surprise and delight.

Beaches

Long crescents of soft sand and sea on the eastern peninsula are perfect for sunbathing, swimming and a variety of watersports. On this coast you will find the popular beaches of Vassilikos, Tsilivi and Alikes. Further south Porto Roma, fringed by pine trees, and Gerakas with its golden sands and rocky peninsula offer a quieter beach experience. On the west coast, the island plunges steeply into the sea with numerous caves piercing the cliffs. Here you will discover the much-photographed bay known as Smugglers' Cove, only reachable by sea.

Shopping

Perhaps the best place to find a souvenir is behind the harbour in Zaknthos town where narrow streets are home to a jumble of small shops. Why not pick up some locally produced cheese, wine or olives to take home?

Nightlife

Argassi, Lagana and Tsivili offer the most if you are looking for lively nightclubs and bars. They also have plenty of restaurants and Tavernas with sea views for those who prefer a quieter evening. For an even more romantic setting try and find a secluded table over looking the Aegean in Alikes or Vassilikos.

Sightseeing

From the plains and mountains of the interior to the rugged coast there is plenty to do in Zakynthos. One of the best ways to see the island is by boat, some of the best beaches such as Smugglers' Cove and the romantic island of and Marathonis in Laganas Bay can only be accessed by sea.

If you fancy seeing more of the Greek mainland you can take a boat to the ancient town of Olympia , birthplace of the Olympic Games. For those who prefer to do there sightseeing on foot Zakynthos has some fantastic scenery to be explored. Inland treks will take you through valleys and over mountains as well as through some typical Greek island villages such as Lithakia and Pantokratoras. History buffs will be sated by the three museums of Zakynthos Town that chart the history of and influences on the island.

Local Specialities

Zakynthos has always taken great pride in its cooking and has many delicious local dishes. Stifado is a very popular rabbit stew while rose and fruit liqueurs and pastalis biscuits make for some tasty deserts. Look out for the strong and pungent 'graviera' cheese which with crusty bread, salad and olives makes a great picnic. 'Mandolato', a sticky white nougat made with almonds, is another local speciality. You might stop at a roadside stall and buy 'fitouri' or 'pasteli', delicious sweet fried snacks. The vineyards on Zakynthos produce some excellent wines. The white Popolaro is considered one of the best in the Ionians and the young and refreshing dry white, Verdea, is a fine accompaniment to seafood.

Highlights

Highlights offer endless opportunities to discover, wonder, relax and enjoy - here is a selection...

Landrover Safari Award of Excellence Only Landrovers and 4x4 off road vehicles are man enough to handle this fun day out! Going totally off the beaten track, head in to unknown territory, deep in the heart of the countryside of Zakynthos. Down dirt tracks, through hidden villages, on and off road to explore the areas that only the local know. Your friendly driver doubles up as your guide and will be able to give you an insider's knowledge of the unknown areas. This is the only way to see the real Zakynthos, get ready for adventure. An award winning day of adventure

Island Hopper Kefalonia New itinerary 2004 Visit this enchanting island and discover a rural landscape rich in colour set amid towering peaks and unspoilt beaches. Enjoy a magical boat ride across the mystical underground Lake Melissani . See the fabulous panorama from St George's Castle and the impressive monastery of the island patron, St Gerassimos. Stop off for free time at the island capital, Argostoli and stroll along the pretty harbour front. Find the famous Myrtos Bay , renowned as one of the most photographed places in Greece . (Please note entrance fees to the Melissani lake are included in the price) Don't miss this great day out

Capital Value Spend a pleasant evening in the capital, Zakynthos town and nearby vistas. At Bohali, view a glorious panorama of the town, over Venetian styled red, rooftops and out to the distant horizon of the Ionian Sea . Sample some local wines and learn about wine making at Callinikos. Gaze across the tree lined, open plains and take a 360 degree view of the countryside from the top of the world! Enter the temple of the island's patron saint, St Dionysios, also know as St Dennis, and picture the exquisite artwork and golden interiors. Shop for souvenirs on Alexandrou Roma or just sit back and relax in the square while soaking up the lively atmosphere. A capital evening of sightseeing and shopping