The Greek Island of Zakynthos is one of the Ionian Islands just off mainland Greece.
Despite tourism being its main industry, it is a largely unspoilt and quiet island, except for the main tourist resort of Laganas.
The town of Laganas consists of one main street down to the coast along which is littered with assorted bars, restaurants and hotels.
It is the only real resort on the island with a wide choice of entertainment that carries on throughout the night. Many of the bar workers are British or Australians who are just there for the summer. Between May and August Loggerhead turtles comes to the shore to lay eggs. The number of turtles on the island is diminishing, so steps are being made to protect them.
The beaches are closed after sunset to encourage egg laying, and water sports are strictly monitored. During the day glass bottomed boats from the beach of Laganas travel guarantee seeing a turtle or promise your money back.
Streets apart in Zante Town |
Zante town is the capital of the island.
It is where the vast majority of the locals live and they far outnumber the number of tourists.
It was rebuilt in 1953 after being largely destroyed in an earthquake.
It now has a harbour and plenty of quaint street and tavernas.
Like much of the Mediterranean, the summers in Zante are hot with loads of sunshine.
Being an island, the heat is kept bearable by daytime breezes. If you come here at the beginning of the season, the start of May, remember your jumpers for the evening, as it can get really quite chilly.
It is best not to visit Zante in winter as it tends to be rather unsettled. The Ionian Islands are the wettest part of Greece, but it is still less than you can expect at home! |
