Take a splash at the waterpark
Ideal for those with children (or those who are children at heart), there are 2 waterparks on the island, both great for a fun day out.
Castelli
Lagopodo, Machairado, Zakynthos
- 8
- 4
- 3
FROM
£ 698
PER WEEK
An awe-inspiring clear panorama of countryside and the coastline.
Accommodation
At a glance
- Sleeps 8
- 3 Double Bedrooms
- 1 Twin Bedroom
- 3 Bathrooms
- Air Conditioning
- WiFi
- Heated Pool*
- Gym
- Beach 9km
- Taverna 900m
- Mini-market 3.5km
- Ground Floor: Bar area (A/C, sink, fridge) with Patio doors to covered terrace. Gym (cross trainer, running machine, weights) with Patio doors to terrace. Double bedroom (A/C). Shower room. Open-tread stairs to:
- First Floor: Open plan living/dining room (Smart TV) with doors to terrace. Kitchen (oven, microwave, dishwasher). Two double bedrooms (A/C) with doors to wrap around terrace/ balcony.Twin bedroom (A/C) with door to wrap around balcony. Two bathrooms.
- Outside: Covered terraces. In-built barbecue*. Washing machine. Private parking.
- Private heated* swimming pool (8m x 4m).
High in the hills above the pretty village of Machairado, Castelli offers a sweeping 360-degree panorama that stretches over a patchwork of green valleys, whitewashed villages and the glittering Ionian Sea.
It’s a setting made for long, easy days in the open air, with the pleasing scent of pine and the sound of birdsong carrying across the valley. On the ground floor, your own private bar awaits, perfect for mixing up an evening drink. Perhaps a refreshing Ouzito (a Greek twist on a mojito) or a warming local’s favourite Rakomelo with honey and spice, as the stars begin to appear.
Inside, three double bedrooms and one twin offer space and flexibility, making Castelli ideal for couples, families or friends looking for a private escape. There’s also a small gym for those who like to start the day with a workout before easing into a slower rhythm.
Outside, the spacious pool terrace is the heart of Castelli. Whether floating lazily in the water, sharing a late lunch under the shade of the pergola or watching the landscape shift as the sun dips, this is a place that draws you outdoors from sunrise to sunset.
When it’s time to explore, Machairado (2.5km) offers a coffee bar, grill house and mini market. A 20-minute drive brings you to the pretty village of Keri, home to some of the island’s most breathtaking sunsets. Beaches on both the east and west coasts are approximately 30 minutes away, thanks to Castelli’s central location. A boat trip along Zakynthos’ coastline is also an absolute must, discover hidden coves, dramatic cliffs, sea caves, and the famous Shipwreck Beach. Inland, wander olive groves, explore hilltop villages, or take the kids for a splash at one of the island’s waterparks. Then return to Castelli, where that view awaits, ready to enchant you all over again. It’s easy to see why this landscape once inspired legends of Artemis roaming the hills and Apollo playing his lyre to the sea below.
- *Pool heating is available on request at a cost of €70 per day payable locally. This must be booked no later than 5 days prior to arrival.
- *As this is a protected area of natural beauty, barbecue bans will be enforced from early June and an electric 'plancha' will be provided for outdoor catering.
- Property Licence No. 0428K91000497501
Pricing & Availability
Location of Castelli
Locality
Great Things to Do Near Castelli
Limni Keri and Marathonisi Island
A trip to Limni Keri is a must-do on any trip to Zakynthos. Take a boat out to the idyllic Keri Caves and visit Marathonisi Island, also known as Turtle Island. The island really is shaped like a turtle and you may be lucky to see some famous Loggerhead turtles swimming nearby.
Wine tasting
Zakynthos is home to multiple wineries, the closest being just 4km from Castelli. Not only do they offer tours and tastings, they also have a restaurant amongst the vineyards with a pairings menu. Take home a bottle or two to enjoy back at the villa!
Visit the Blue Caves
Together with Navagio Shipwreck, visiting the Blue Caves on the north coast of Zakynthos is the perfect day out. Larger boats cannot gain access to the caves so renting a small boat will give you access to these stunning formations- a sight to behold.
Discover Navagio Shipwreck
A trip to Zakynthos is not complete without a trip to see the iconic Navagio Shipwreck and beach. Only accessible by sea (or from the viewing platform above), dramatic white cliffs and glistening waters make this one of the most stunning locations on the island. Unfortunately, you cannot access the beach but renting a boat will get you as close as possible to see this wonderful sight.
Learn about Turtle Conservation
Zakynthos is renowned for the famous Loggerhead Caretta Caretta turtles and the Turtle Conservation Centre in Gerakas is the perfect place to learn about all things turtle! Learn about the conservation efforts the island has to protect this special species and you may even be lucky to see a turtle being taken care of before being released back into the sea.
Take a sulphur bath
The coves on the east coast, including Xigia and Makris Gialos, are famous for their sulphur springs and milky blue waters with healing properties. There are tavernas at the top of the road which offer parking and food to takeaway for a beach picnic.
Anyone for golf?
There are 3 mini-golf courses on the island. The course at Tsilivi in particular has to be seen to be believed. It's 18 holes are played around ponds, fountains, a pirate ship and even am erupting volcano.
Watersports at lively St Nicholas
If you are looking for watersports, activities and beach bars with live music, head to St Nicholas. The beach is named after the pretty white chapel which sits at the far end.
Banana Beach
Perfect for all ages, Banana Beach has it all. This long stretch of sandy beach is ideal for those looking to relax, enjoy a cooling dip in the azure sea or have a leisurely lunch at one of the beach bars.
Seafront lunches in Ammoudi
Head to the coast and enjoy a wonderful fish and seafood lunch on the beachfront. If you purchase food and drink from the coastal establishments, they will often let you use their terraces, sunbeds and parasols free of charge.
Explore the inland villages
Zakynthos is not just an island of beaches and coves, there are a number of pretty stone villages to visit if you would like to get an insight into life on the island in years gone by. As well as nearby Machairado, also try to visit Kiliomenos, Volimes or Exo Chora, a world away from the coastal resorts. You can combine a visit to the above with a visit to Shipwreck beach as many are on route.
Panoramic views at Porto Limnionas
This hidden cove with bathing platforms is accessed via a narrow and quite steep coastal road. Unbeatable views await at Porto Limnoimas. Take a dip in the sparkling sea and once cooled down, head to the taverna perched above for fresh food with one of the best views on the island.
Visit Zakynthos Town
A trip to Zakynthos Town is not to be missed. Wander the charming streets filled with coffee bars and shops whilst soaking up the Venetian architecture. The town offers a laidback atmosphere and plenty of tavernas to choose from.
Take a hike
There is a well-know route up to Mount Skopos which starts from the coast between Argassi and Vasilikos and leads up this hill to the Panagia Skopiotissa Monastery. The panoramic view from the top is fantastic.
Rent a kayak
Zakynthos is ideal for sea kayaking as it is protected from the big swells and strong winds by the neighbouring islands of Kefalonia, Lefkada and mainland Greece. Daily trips include excursions to the Keri Caves, Blue Caves, Marathonisi (Turtle) and Cameo Islands.
Sample the local olive oil
As you drive around the Machairado area, you will see rows of olive trees and also presses converting the harvest into delicious oil. You will often see stalls at the side of the road, where you can purchase locally produced olive oil, as well as olive oil body lotion and soaps.
Swimming with horses
There are a number of companies which organise treks up into the hills, but also along the coast. These tours end with the riders and horses taking a swim in the sea together. Great fun and a fantastic opportunity for equine lovers.
Listen out for the church bells
Machairado is famous for its 14th Century church, one of the oldest still standing on the island. It has an impressive Venetian belfry and the bells are said to be the most harmonious in all of Greece!
Mamma Mia on Cameo Island
This tiny island between Laganas and Agios Sostis was used as part of the set for the Mamma Mia! film. For a small fee, you can cross the wooden bridge, have a wander and a drink at the beach bar.
Nearby
Towns/Villages
| Machairado | 5 mins | |
| Kiliomenos | 10 mins | |
| Keri | 20 mins | |
| Tsilivi | 25 mins | |
| Zakynthos Town | 25 mins | |
| Ano Gerakari | 25 mins | |
| Exo Chora | 25 mins | |
| Kampi | 30 mins | |
| Vasilikos | 40 mins |
Beaches
| Alykanas | 25 mins | |
| Alykes | 25 mins | |
| Porto Roxa | 25 mins | |
| Ammoudi | 30 mins | |
| Porto Limnionas | 30 mins | |
| Dafni | 35 mins | |
| Navagio (Shipwreck Beach) | 40 mins | |
| Banana Beach | 40 mins | |
| Gerakas | 45 mins |
Airports
| Zakynthos | 20 mins |
