Introduction
Our villas are located in picturesque areas far from the hecticness of more established resorts. In our chosen locations you will find a greener landscape, rows of olive groves and a selection of beautiful white sandy beaches, the perfect base to enjoy the island’s natural beauty and a traditional and tranquil environment.
Zakynthos Town
This small town is the capital of the island and home to the main port with crossings to mainland Greece. Popular tourist sites include Saint Mark’s Square, Solomos Square and the Byzantine Museum with art from the Byzantine period plus religious pieces. Here you will also find a choice of restaurants offering traditional dishes as well as fine dining. Local shops sell jewellery, leather goods, carpets and ceramics and the local market offers plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables, honey, olive oil and raisins, the main source of the island’s income prior to World War II.
Head up to the village of Boxali (Bochali) and visit the Venetian fort to enjoy 360º panoramic views of the city and both coasts. The perfect place to enjoy a romantic meal, sunset cocktails and the cosmopolitan atmosphere.
Beaches
Zakynthos offers a beach for every type of traveller - whether you’re looking for a serene, secluded spot, a lively beach with plenty of activities or a place steeped in natural beauty. Beaches in the north of the island are generally more rugged and rocky, whereas beaches in the south are sandy lagoons. Each beach is unique in its offering; from the iconic views of Navagio Beach to the tranquil and eco-conscious atmosphere of Gerakas. With crystal-clear waters, diverse landscapes, and unforgettable sunsets, Zakynthos’ beaches are the perfect place to unwind, explore, and create lasting memories on this beautiful island.
Gerakas – the most southerly beach on the island which forms part of the National Marine Park, the first in Greece, is a protected haven of sandy beach and transparent turquoise water. Gerakas is one of the most important nesting areas for turtles who swim from the Libyan Sea and the southern Adriatic to lay their eggs. As no fishing is allowed along this coastline there is plenty of sea life in the water and it is ideal for snorkelling. There are very few facilities here except sunbed hire, the proceeds of which go to The Turtle Foundation.
Dafni Beach – just along from Gerakas, Dafni is another great choice for nature lovers and for those wanting to avoid the crowds. Its calm waters make it ideal for swimmers of all ages and levels, it is said that the warmest sea water is here. There are a couple of beach tavernas, the perfect spot to enjoy the sunset.
Porto Zoro – is an unspoilt beach on the north side of the Vasilikos peninsula and another great choice for swimmers and snorkellers due to its natural rock formations.
Banana Beach – located between Vasilikos and Zakynthos Town, this is one of the island’s widest sandy beaches and popular with those wanting atmospheric beach bars and a choice of activities including volleyball, kayaking, jet skiing and paddleboarding.
Navagio Beach – without doubt the island’s most dramatic and photographed beach. It is now home to this infamous shipwreck, believed to be smuggling tobacco in the early 80s when it ran ashore during a storm. This must-see beach and azure waters can only be accessed by boat, alternatively you can admire this spectacular view from the viewing platform above. Arrive early morning before it gets busy.
Porto Limnionas Beach – a stunning section of coastline hidden away along the west coast. Ideal for those looking for an off-the-beaten-track location and seclusion.
The west coast beaches are where you will really appreciate the wonderful shades of blue of the Ionian Sea with a lot of these coves only accessible by boat.
Local cuisine
As well as offering traditional homecooked meals in elegant harbourside restaurants, Zakynthos has upped its game when it comes to fine dining. In many restaurants there is a focus on farm to table produce.
There are also various wineries, some of which are centuries old, and hundreds of hectares of vineyards with over 60 different grape varieties. At the end of August, Zakynthos hosts its own wine festival.
Climate
The island enjoys a Mediterranean climate with hot dry summers and mild winters. In the summer months, temperatures range from 25ºC to 40ºC, with the highest temperatures in July and August. Note that the humidity levels are moderate compared to other parts of Greece and therefore high temperatures are more bearable.
May and October are mild and ideal for those who wish to explore more of the island and enjoy the outdoor activities on offer. In May there is less coastal wind, the sea is calmer and there is a pretty array of wildflowers.
Festivals
Orthodox Easter is a major event in Zakynthos, the island celebrates the week prior to Easter Sunday with various processions and feasts. On Saturday there is a dramatic and lively celebration with a religious service at midnight. In Zakynthos Town, there is a tradition that locals throw clay pots (botides) out of their windows to symbolize renewal and prosperity.
25th April marks the Feast of Saint Mark where the church of the same name in Zakynthos Town celebrates his life and contribution to Christianity.
Pentecost is celebrated 50 days after Easter and is a significant feast for the Greek Orthodox Church.
Feast of the Assumption is celebrated across Greece and special church services are held in honour of the Virgin Mary. There are many processions, feasts and festivities, one of the more well-known is at the church in Anafonitria.
The patron Saint of Zakynthos, Dionysios (Dennis), is honoured on 24th August, this is the biggest celebration on the island. Expect to hear cannons, ship horns, church bells and fireworks. There is a street parade at 7pm on 24th and an open market located opposite the church.
Many of the villages celebrate their own festival, if you are lucky enough to visit at this time, you may experience the ‘kantathes’, sung in the street to the accompaniment of the mandolin.
