Zante Holidays

Zante: Introduction

Brilliant sunshine and a friendly welcome are the hallmark of this beautiful Greek island. Known for centuries as the ‘Flower of the East, Zante is a land of contrasts, with stunning green scenery, white cliffs, sleepy olive groves and dusky mountains. Zante holidays have a distinct and charming village atmosphere, with friendly tavernas, shops and bars, and is packed full of historical and cultural delights. Clubbers and night owls will also be spoilt for choice by a range of exciting nightlife in the party resort of Lagunas.

Zakynthos Town has been extensively rebuilt since the devastating earthquake of 1953, which destroyed much of the original Venetian architecture. Visitors looking for a cheap holiday to Zante, however, will still find traditional market places, museums, churches to explore, and the magnificent old Venetian Castle towers above the town.

In the southeastern part of the island, about 9km from Zakynthos Town, lies the Laganas resort. The closely packed beach is a safe haven for families looking for a cheap package holiday to Zante, with 9km of golden sand and a range of water sports on offer. Laganas will also help you party from dawn to dusk with an impressive selection of restaurants, bars and nightclubs.

Zante is the most important nesting area for Loggerhead turtles to nest, and there is a national marine park near Laganas Beach, Marathonisi Island and the resort town of Kalamaki to protect these animals. Nature-lovers traveling to the island in June, July or August may be fortunate enough to catch the baby turtles hatching in the evening, or see the adult turtles swimming near Lagunas Beach. For a secluded beach break, Gerakas beach is also a protected area for turtles and is one of the best stretches of sand in Zante.

Tsilivi beach offers a cool breeze from the bay to refresh the tourists that return year after year to its spectacular sands. There are sporting activities galore to enjoy, including tennis, water-ski, windsurfing, or visitors can escape the hustle and bustle on a peaceful fishing trip. Tsilivi beach is also a great option for walking holidays to Zante, with a number of coastal trails that will take you past scent-filled vineyards and a Venetian vardiola.

Culture vultures will be rewarded by a trip to the traditional village of Bohali, situated amongst picturesque flowery gardens and rolling hills. Sip a coffee whilst enjoying spell-binding panoramic views of the island, with traditional Zakynthian music providing a relaxing soundtrack. Wander further afield to Strani Hill where Dionysos Solomos composed the Greek National Anthem.

One of the most spectacular sights on Zante is the Navayio, known as Smuggler’s Cove. The most photographed beach in Greece recalls images from times long past, featuring vertical rock faces towering over a rusty shipwreck, while the beautiful blue Ionian sea sparkles in the background.

Check our Hot Offer holidays section for cheap Zante holidays to start looking forward to a sunshine getaway now, or browse our range of Zante accommodation and Zante cheap flights to tailor your own perfect holiday.

Other Greek holiday destinations available
Corfu,  Kefalonia,  Kos,  Lefkas,  Preveza,  Rhodes,  Skiathos and Crete