Ian John takes a look at the other side of Zante, the third largest of the Ionian Islands, and discovers a destination of small villages, secluded beaches and museums.
The picturesque Greek island of Zante, also known as Zakynthos, has become one of the most popular holiday destinations for party lovers. The bustling town of Laganas is particularly renowned for its loud bars, fabulous nightlife and red-cheeked revelry into the small hours. Indeed, Laganas’ popularity as a clubbing destination has ensured its status as a rival to that most famous of Ionian party island destinations,Corfu.
Yet to assume that Zante’s popularity is due to its strident nightlife does the island a great disservice. Away from the loud sounds and bright lights of Laganas lies one of Greece’s most beautiful island destinations, with many other delightful beachfront towns and resorts offering an ideal getaway for holidaymakers seeking a quieter break.
Almost all of Zante’s famed nightlife is based around the resort of Laganas close to the airport, but away from the town there are plenty of smaller resorts worth considering.
If you’re a family or couple, the resorts of Alykes and Alikanas are excellent choices. Located on Alykon bay, both towns have gently-shelving beaches that dip into the warm, azure waters of theMediterranean, making them a safe haven for families to enjoy a paddle or, for the more energetic, one of the many water sports at Alikanas beach.
Both resorts are home to several small supermarkets, shops, cafes, tavernas and bars – meaning everything for a holiday can be easily found and the Greeks’ famous hospitality, especially towards younger guests, means a warm welcome is assured. Accommodation in the region is plentiful with several popular hotels and villas for rental allowing easy exploration of this beautiful region of the island.
Another excellent destination for those seeking a quieter time is Tsilivi. This small town is situated on the east coast of the island around five miles from Alykes and Alikanas and roughly the same distance from the airport near Laganas. Tsilivi beach is a blue flag-rated and has abundant water sports available.
Tsilivi is close to Zante Town, the island’s capital, and this beautiful harbour town is well worth a visit, especially to enjoy the fabulous Byzantine Museum, located on the equally grand Solomou Square – a real joy to behold when beautifully lit on a warm summer’s evening. Overlooking the square is the statue of Dionysus (pronounced ‘Dennis’) Solomos, the famed Greek poet who penned the epic poem Hymn to Freedom, which subsequently became adopted as the lyrics of the Greek national anthem.
One of the best ways to see the island’s abundant attractions is via an all-day cruise, several of which set off daily from the harbour in Zante Town. The cruise is a leisurely way to enjoy the sights of Zante and offers the chance to explore some of the island’s most famous (yet inaccessible from land) landmarks, such as the Blue Caves, the island of Marathonisi, the caves at Keri and the famous Smugglers Cove beach.
Inland there are several small villages that are easily accessible if you choose to rent a small car or motorbike from a variety of vendors all across the Zante. The island is only small and even renting a car for a few days will allow you to enjoy the slower pace of life in villages such as Katastari and Volimes in the north as well as Kalamaki, Keri and Vassilikos in the south.
To conclude, don’t be fooled by the hype of Zante as a clubbers’ paradise. While Laganas may offer the nightlife, the rest of this beautiful island remains a quiet, friendly haven for holidaymakers of all ages to enjoy.
Discover more of Zante with the following hand-picked travel guides and maps:
Zakynthos – Sunflower Complete Guide