Zakynthos - the colorful island of Greece in the Ionian Sea

Zakynthos island Greece is a magic corner from beautiful dreams. Thousands of poets and writers sang this paradise island, endowed with the beauty of untouched nature, a variety of rich colors and all the conditions for a wonderful holiday. It smells of needles, the aromas of exotic flowers, citruses and grapes are felt.

Luxurious Mediterranean Flower

The island of Zakynthos or Zakynthos, as it is commonly called in Greece, is included in the group of the Ionian Islands. It is located 300 km west of mainland Greece and is the third largest among all the islands of its group. It will be absolutely not difficult for tourists to get to the mainland if desired. The capital city, by the way, is also called Zakynthos. It is very convenient - no one will confuse anything when planning a vacation, because Zakynthos and Zakynthos are, in fact, the same thing.

The total area of ​​Zakynthos is 407 km square ... The length of the coastline is 123 km. The population is about 39,000 people. Sufficiently modest sizes absolutely do not prevent this island from developing in a tourist direction, because the nature here is truly beautiful, small villages are very colorful and attractive, and sandy beaches are very convenient and beautiful.

Features of Zakynthos

The Greek island of Zakynthos in ancient times was called the "flower of the Levant" or the "flower of the Mediterranean East." These names were bestowed upon a beautiful corner by the Venetians, who appreciated all its beauty back in the 15th century. The island not only inspires musicians, artists and writers, but also attracts many tourists with amazing beaches, clear emerald sea, unusual sights. The greatest flowering of the culture of this Greek corner falls on the reign of the Venetians.

According to legend, Zakynthos charmed even the Greek gods with its beauty. Apollo and Artemis most admired him. Perhaps that is why the indigenous people from ancient times especially revered this couple. In the immortal poetry of Homer, Zakynthos is also described as "a paradise drowning in emerald forests."

In early summer, people gather in Zakynthos to see one interesting event. The impressive size of the Caretta turtles in the summer laid eggs in the sand. 55 days after laying, new individuals hatch from the eggs and massively go to the sea. The process is monitored by experts, because only 1-2 turtles can independently get to the water. Such an event is also of great interest. Turtles Caretta-Caretta reach up to 1 m in length.

The island of Zakynthos, or Zakynthos, is unique in that here nature has been preserved almost in its original form. Greens are rampant everywhere, numerous flowers bloom and spread their honey aromas. There are no aggressive industrial facilities here, so no harmful substances pollute the atmosphere, water and land. The activities of small factories producing olive oil and wine are strictly regulated by environmental standards and do not harm the environment at all.

Photos of tourists returning from Zakynthos Island in Greece are literally full of images of folk and music festivals. This place is very honored by cultural traditions, so you can meet many authentic objects of painting and local architecture. In colorful taverns on the seashore, you can taste delicious food.Find out RATES or book any accommodation using this form

What to see and where to have fun?

The most important thing for travelers and vacationers who come to Zakynthos from different parts of the world is the nature of the island: picturesque beaches, natural origin of the grottoes, dense greenery and truly beautiful panoramic views. It is unfortunate that most historical monuments have not survived. But the population of the island is trying to protect all that is beautiful and interesting that remains. And there really is something to see!

In the north of Zakynthos, you can take a stunning photo if you decide to visit the unique blue caves. Admire the many picturesque grottoes, stone arches and clear blue water. The originality of this attraction is added by the fact that you can get to the caves only on occasion. The most visited and famous blue cave is located on Cape Skinari. Artists, professional photographers and directors love to work in it.

By the way, the water in the snow-white grottoes is very saturated with calcium and other minerals. Therefore, washing with such water has a very beneficial effect on the skin. The depth of these waters reaches four meters. Thanks to a sufficiently large depth, here you can dive with a mask and admire the corals as much as you like.

In the northwest of Zakynthos is the famous Navajo Bay. This is a very beautiful beach, surrounded on all sides by white limestone cliffs. People seeking thrills on vacation like jumping from cliffs into the sea. Read more about Navajo Bay and other Zakynthos beaches.

On the city promenade of Zakynthos, there is a temple with an impressive bell tower, which can be seen from afar. This is the church of St. Dionysius, named after a priest with a difficult fate, who, contrary to human malice, has earned great respect and love of the inhabitants of the island. The interior of the temple is striking in its luxury and splendor.

By the way, another outstanding islander was named in honor of the priest. For the Greeks, the island of Zakynthos is not just beautiful beaches and pristine forests. First of all, this is the homeland of a revered person, a great poet, the author of the national anthem - Dionysius Solomos. On the main square of the capital, his monument is installed.

If you want to spend time on Zakynthos, it’s not only useful, but also fun, you should definitely visit the water park. There are three of them on the island, but the most famous and largest is Water Village. It is located in the village of Sarakinado. There are slides of different levels for children and adults, a huge number of pools and various water activities. In the many cafes located right on the territory of the water park, you can perfectly refresh yourself or refresh yourself with a cocktail.

Ticket price: 18 EUR for adults and 14 EUR - for children, for half a day (after 14:30) 14 and 10 EUR, respectively.

In 1999, a reserve was founded on the island. It is located on several beaches and 2 small islands. This is a miniature example of the Mediterranean ecosystem. It will be very interesting for both children and adults. Everyone can see iguanas, porcupines, dolphins, rare turtles, unique seals and many other inhabitants of the sea.

In addition to the sea, there is also the Askos stone reserve, famous for its simply unearthly beauty. On the limited territory of the park, many rare species of animals and plants from around the planet are collected. Huge stone buildings, large water tanks and wooden compositions are in harmony with the untouched nature of Zakynthos.

Children will be delighted with a walk around Askos. Employees of the park are allowed to feed some animals with food that they themselves give. Admission is € 9.50.

The monastery was built in 1241 on one of the islands near Zakynthos. In the XV century, the monastery building was rebuilt, and it became like a castle or a medieval fortress. Such a structure served as an excellent shelter for monks from pirates. The central temple is made in the shape of a tower. It was here that for some time Saint Dionysius served as a simple monk. As a result of the earthquake, the monastery was badly damaged, but they tried to restore it, restoring the original appearance. Nowadays, the monastery operates, 60 monks live in it.
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Weather on the island

Zakynthos attracts vacationers and tourists with its mild Mediterranean climate. In winter it is not cold at all, and in summer there is no burning heat. In winter, the earth is generously rained. Such weather conditions favor the formation of rich vegetation and the constant accumulation of fresh water. In the summer season, from early May to October, there is practically no rain. In July and August, a constant fresh breeze from the sea helps to soften the heat.

The weather of air and water in the sea for months on Zakynthos is displayed on graphs.

Average temperature in summer: + 24 ... + 30 ° С. Experienced tourists believe that the best period for a vacation in Zakynthos is June-October. At other times, it is also not cold, but the sea is not warming up enough. If a beach holiday is not important for you, then year-round excursions and recreational tours are held on the island.

Zakynthos Island, Greece is an informative and harmonious vacation in an ecologically clean area with unspoiled nature.

Watch the video: Ζάκυνθος Zakynthos Island Ionian Sea Beauties Greece HD (December 2024).