Zante (Zakynthos)

Zakynthos - Navagio Cove

Rhodes

Zakynthos or Zante is one of the Ionian Islands of Greece. It is the third largest island in the group. In his Lonely Planet Greek Islands, David Willets states:

"... it is an island of exceptional natural beauty and outstanding beaches. Unfortunately, in many coastal areas it has been the victim of the worst manifestations of package tourism."

However, Zakynthos has some excellent beaches, including Alikes, Alikanas, Argasi, Bouka, Gerakas, Laganas, Navagio, Porto Koukla, Porto Roma, and Tsilivi. The fabulous Navagio Cove (see picture) is only accessible by boat. Willett says that it is still possible to have a relaxing holiday if you avoid high season and built-up resorts such as Laganas.

Zakynthos town has some imposing buildings for a small Greek island, having been rebuilt in a sprawling neo-classical styke. The Byzantine Museum is worth visiting, holding many superb exhibits from ruined churches around the island. There are also remains of a Venetian fortress (the Kastro), high above the town.

Fair isle, that from the fairest of all flowers,
Thy gentlest of all gentle names dost take!
How many memories of what radiant hours
At sight of thee and thine at once awake!
How many scenes of what departed bliss!
How many thoughts of what entombed hopes!
How many visions of a maiden that is
No more- no more upon thy verdant slopes!
No more! alas, that magical sad sound
Transforming all! Thy charms chall please no more-
Thy memory no more! Accursed ground
Henceforth I hold thy flower-enameled shore,
O hyacinthine isle! O purple Zante!
"Isola d'oro! Fior di Levante!"
- Edgar Allan Poe, 1837

• The Greek Islands
• The Ionian Islands
• Corfu
• Kefalonia
• Zakynthos (Zante)
• Crete
• Cretan History
• Cyclades
• Paros
• Rhodes

Travel guides are available through the following links:

• Greece Travel Guides from Amazon.co.uk
• Greece Travel Guides from Amazon.com
• Amazon.de Reiseführer - Griechenland