Introduction to Zante

The main attraction for visitors to the Greek island of Zante (also known as Zakynthos) are the island's 57 miles of coastline. In particular the eastern and southern shores which are packed with beautiful coves and picture postcard bays. One of the largest of the Ionian Islands with a great Mediterranean climate and Zante is a popular destination perfect for a low cost getaway. Because of its unique shape Zante offers many bays and coves ideal for exploration by tourists of all ages. Zante is often referred to as 'the green island of poetry, song and love' and the approach by ferry certainly provides an inspiring and poetic sight. This picturesque town curves around a bay which is dominated by a Venetian Fortress as well as the St Dennis Cathedral.

Holidays to Zante

Although Zante is only a medium sized island it caters for a whole range of visitors from family groups with a desire for an unusual beach holiday to more mature groups who wish to experience the sun whilst exploring. It also caters well for the 18-30 party crowd with resorts such as Laganas. Boasting bars and nightclubs that are open until dawn with dancing and drinking to please even the most heavyweight party animal Laganas is an extremely popular party destination. In contrast on the other side of the island there is Argassi which offers a much more family orientated atmosphere to which one can escape with or without children.

Zakynthos town is reminiscent of Venice with its historic Solomos Square, lined by neoclassical buildings. Offering a much more traditional Grecian setting for a holiday, although tourism is now the main industry in Zante it is still possible to find traditional Greek culture if one is willing to look for it.

The white sandy beaches of Lagana and Geraka are also well known as the nesting grounds of the Caretta-Caretta sea turtles, a remarkable and unusual sight on any holiday. Inland the mountain villages lure holidaymakers away from the beach to explore quaint monasteries tucked away amongst the greenery as well as to enjoy fine food and wine served with traditional warm, local hospitality.

A holiday to Zante makes for great sun worshipping, in high season, with highs of just over 90 degrees Farenheight, the climate simply expands the ever increasing list of reasons to visit this wonderful island.

Flights to Zante

One of the reasons Zante is so popular is because of it's ease in accessibility. Flights to D.Solomos(Zante) Airport are both quick and frequent and because of the size of the island one is never far from any resort, keeping transfers short and cheap. Many low cost and charter airlines fly to Zante at very competitive rates, ensuring you can spend you money on what really matters; the holiday!

History and Culture of Zante

Zante or Zakynthos has been well known since early Greek times and features in many Myths and Legends and it is said that the Goddess Artemis and her brother Apollo used to hunt and play instruments in the forests of the island to enchant the beauty of the island. Since these early myths Zante and all of the Greek islands have moved through many denominations from, Venetian, through France/Russia/Turkey, to English. This sheds light as to the reason why the island's culture and art in particular has so many diverse influences. The Island really gained a true identity when Greece gained independence from Turkey and began to lean more towards European standards. Tourism has become the main income earner for this popular resort but the rapid development of infrastructure in recent years has in no way depleted its traditional charm. All of these influences and changes in Zante's history make for an enchanting holiday destination, Zante remains a very beautiful and poetic island escape.