Zakynthos is a Greek’s third largest island in the Ionian Sea and a well-known summer resort. According to archeological findings the island has been inhabited since the Neolithic Age. In Homer’s writings it is stated that Zakynthos and his men were the first inhabitants of the island.
The harbor city of Zakynthos is the capital and major hub, centered around waterfront Solomos Square. The biggest resort is Laganás, on Laganás Bay in the south, a 24-hour party venue that doesn’t give up from Easter until the last flight home in October. There are smaller, quieter resorts north and south of the capital, and the southerly Vassilikós peninsula has some of the best countryside and beaches, including exquisite Yérakas.
Zakynthos Motology
Zakynthos, the first inhabitant of the island and, eventually, its king came from Arcadia. According to a theory the Arcadians came first on the island in the first millennium B.C., in their effort to find new colonies. The rich music tradition and the worship of the ancient Goddess Artemis were characteristics of the land of Arcadia. In mythology it is stated that Artemis, Goddess of hunting, used to visit and wander into the forests of Zakynthos, while Apollo praised the beauty of the island playing his lyre.
Zakynthos Beaches
Popular beaches like Agios Nikolaos, Alykanas and Tsilivi offer swimming and water sports. Accessed by boat, Navagio beach is the site of a famed 1980 shipwreck resting in a sandy cove framed by cliffs.
Shipwreck, Navagio Beach
On the north west coast of the Greek Ionian island of Zakynthos you will find Shipwreck Cove or Smugglers Cove also called Navagio Beach which is probably the most famous beach in Greece and can only be accessed by boat but is well worth the trip. The boat was shipwrecked back in 1980 after hitting rocks in bad weather while being pursued by the Greek Navy who suspected it was carrying contraband cigarettes.
Marathonisi Island
The only known resident of this island is the loggerhead sea turtle, making this secluded paradise Zakynthos´ marine sanctuary and a dream destination that boasts some of Greece´s best beaches and stunning caves. Several tours of the island take place everyday and, though no restaurants nor bars are located in Marathonisi, a picnic boat cruises around, offering snacks and beverages.
Blue Caves
The blue caves are only accessible by the sea, but this fact has not stopped them from being one of the main attractions of this Greek island, especially at certain times of the day. The biggest cave is called Kianoun, and there are many boats available for rent in the town port for tourists to be able to get to the blue caves. One should definitely bring a camera when visiting The Blue Caves.
Wines
The island still produces fine wines, such as the white Popolaro, as well as sugar-shock-inducing mandoláto nougat, whose honey-sweetened form is best.
