Zakynthos top attractions
1. Navagio (Shipwreck) and Blue Caves
Two of the most well-known destinations, not only in Zakynthos but the whole of Greece, can only be accessed by the sea. The famous Shipwreck, which is the most photographed beach in the country, is positioned on the west coast of the island under the famous and picturesque mountainous village of Volimes. In 1983 an illegal boat carrying cigarettes was washed off the shore of the Agios Georgios bay as it was then known. In the years that followed the sand ‘swallowed’ the boat exposing only parts of its rusty body thus creating a stunning picture in the surrounding white sand and the crystal clear blue waters of the beach. The Blue Caves on the other hand, are geological formations as a result of erosion found to the east of the Schinari Cape in the North of the island. The vivid azure waters reflect the colour of the sky which is then mirrored on to the walls of the naturally formed arches (caves) creating a magical and surreal effect. To best experience this unique phenomenon one has to visit the caves early in the morning or before sunset. The biggest cave is called Cyanoun Spilaio. To visit the Navagio catch a boat from the Porto Vromi port off Volimes in the West and for the Blue Caves hire a boat either form St. Nikolaos port or the Town Centre.
2. Sunset at Shiza
Visit the small picturesque village of Kampi to the west of the island and follow the steep drive up to the top of the hill where a big cross memorial stands in honour of those murdered during the civil war in Greece (literally thrown off the cliff and sent to their deaths). On the way up you will find the Mycenaean cemetery with original tombs of that era. Once at the top of the cliff you find yourself standing some 300 meters above sea level. Get there early before sunset to get a good observation spot and watch the sun’s magical slow descent into the transformative seascape and colour formations in the early evening sky. Family run tavernas are available both at the foot and the top of the hill with good vantage points for you to enjoy the sunset over a delicious traditional meal.
3. Mpohali
Just 2 km from Zakynthos Town, at the top of the hill is Mpohali. Overlooking the port, neighbourhoods and streets below (as well as Argasi to the right) one can take in the wonderful views of the town and port below, the sea and beyond. Visit Mpohali in the morning to enjoy a relaxed breakfast and coffee or by night to indulge in a moonlit dinner or cocktails at the many beautiful lounge bars and cafeterias.
4. Strada Marina walk
Starting at Zakynthos Port on the Argasi side by the church and bell tower of Agios Dionysios take a slow walk on the sea front, also known as Strada Marina, and enjoy the beautiful scenes of fishermen and sailing boats, local shops, cafeterias and horse-drawn carriage tours. The walk will bring you to the big square of Dionysios Solomos (in front of the Byzantine Museum) which hosts the poet’s statue in honour of his ‘Hymn to Freedom’, which later became Greece’s national anthem. The square is surrounded by local sweet sellers and play activities for the young visitors. During the summer months there is also a local outdoor book exhibition. Whilst at the square you can also visit St Nicolas church and the cultural centre which hosts regular guest art exhibitions.
5. Marathonissi
The small islet is situated in Laganas bay and provides one of the nesting homes for the loggerhead turtle Caretta Caretta. Its turtled-shape formation has evoked a number of myths over the years one of which is that it was carved by the ancients in honour of the visiting creature! Restrictions for visiting the islet are imposed by the National Marine Park in order to protect the nesting grounds in the area. The islet is surrounded by crystal clear deep waters and rich vegetation. You can catch a boat from either Keri or Laganas.
6. Anafonitria
Approximately 25 k from Zakynthos is the small village of Anafonitria situated near Volimes and hosting a beautiful 15th century Byzantine monastery, which was built in honour of the Virgin Mary. It was in this monastery that the patron saint of Zakynhtos, Agios Dionysios, lived the last years of his life as a monk. In the surrounding locality you will find traditional tavernas, local produce such as cheese, honey, wine and olive oil as well as arts and crafts hand-made by the villagers.
7. Gerakas
At the southern most point of the island is the Cape of Gerakas. The beach of Gerakas forms the eastern part of Laganas bay and is a protected area and part of the National Marine Park. Gerakas beach is one of the most beautiful on the island and the shallow turquoise waters combined with the golden sand and rocky formations in the distance make-up an impressive spectacle. Gerakas is virtually unspoiled by the mass tourism on the island and there are very few hotels and restaurants in the vicinity. There is a strong local initiative led by the villagers to maintain the natural beauty and ecological significance of Gerakas and the wider area of Vasilikos.
8. Keri
Keri is one of the most scenic destinations at the South of the island and is formed by Keri Lake by the sea and a traditional village at the top of the hill. Limni Keriou (Keri lake) took its name by the wetland that is still home to many animal and plant species. Down by the narrow strip of shore and the pedestrianised walk along the sea front you can find many local tavernas, cafes and bars to choose from. From the small port you can hire a boat, visit Keri Caves and dive into the cool crystal clear turquoise waters. Back at the small and quiet village of Keri at the top of the hill you can enjoy the simple joys of village life like hand-made coffee at the local kafeneion and a stroll among the small cobbled streets and traditional stone houses. You can also enjoy the magnificent views of Myzithres, two large rocky formations in the sea, viewed by the Faros (lighthouse).
9. Limnionas
Some 25k from the town and just off Agios Leon in the West there is Limnionas a beautiful unspoiled lagoon with transparent and emerald green waters. There is no beach as such but plenty of flat rocks you can sunbathe on. The best experience is diving into the freezing cold waters of the bay a combination of sea currents and underwater streams. The scenic views are also enjoyed by the only taverna in the vicinity which serves fresh fish and other local delicacies.
10. Zakynthos Town
The town is best enjoyed on foot. Explore its paved streets and squares and take your time to really explore the local arts and produce generously available from corner to corner. From bakeries to cafes, local markets, sweet shops, clothes and jewellery boutiques to picturesque neighbourhoods, museums and hidden heritage (like the English cemetery), Zakynthos Town has it all. The town’s architecture is reminiscent of the Venetian and Byzantine eras. The town is vibrant and on the move until the early hours of the morning, however under strict regulations night clubs can only be found on the outskirts of the town along the sea front road leading to Argasi.
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