Zakynthos

Zakynthos, or Zante, tells two distinct stories. The island’s southern and southeastern coasts are given over to the rhythms of package tourism, with busy resorts lining the shore. Yet, just a short journey inland or towards the west reveals a landscape of a completely different character — one of pine-forested hills, traditional villages and a dramatic coastline where limestone cliffs meet strikingly clear waters. The island’s capital, Zakynthos Town, reflects its layered history. A devastating earthquake in 1953 destroyed much of its Venetian-era architecture, but an Italianate atmosphere lingers in its porticoed streets and spacious main square. Above the town, the shell of a Venetian castle stands sentinel, offering panoramic views across the water. The island’s most famous landmark, Navagio or ‘Shipwreck Beach’, is found on the wild west coast. It is a cove of brilliant white sand and electric-blue water, accessible only by boat. This contrast between the developed and the pristine defines the Zakynthos experience. While the summer months see a steady influx of visitors, the island’s quieter corners, especially in the north and west, offer a sense of escape and a connection to its natural beauty.