Europe -> Southern Europe -> Greece

Introduction:
Zante is located in the Ionian Islands off the west coast of Greece. Currently Zante is between unspoilt beauty and over commercialisation. A lot of the island is still 'untouched' but the development in some areas is threatening to take over these areas.


History:
Zante has been ruled by many foreign powers. Most noticibly the Roman Empire in the 3rd Century BC, which later developed into the Byzantine Empire. Venice ruled for 400 years and used the island for its resources of wine, fruit, silk and cotton. The Venetian influence can still be seen in the landscape, with olive trees populating Zante, and in the beautiful archietcure. When Venice fell to Napolean, France controled the Island. In 1815 the Island was ruled by the British who built infrastructure such as roads, hospitals and schools. In 1864 Zante was returned to the Greeks.




Things to See:
Zante town is a charming seaside town stretching the length of a busy harbour. There are a few things to see around town including the church of St Dhionysios which is decorated with murals inside. The Zakynthos Museum houses artwork from the Ionian school. The kastro is a stunning ruined Venetian fort complete with dungeons and a breathtaking view over the island.


Lagan's Bay in the south is home to Laganas, one of the islands biggest resorts which doesn't stop from April until October. Outside the resorts and towns the island is filled with vineyards and farms, quaint villages and beautiful ruins. Shipwreck beach (Navagio) is probably the most photographed and visited place in Zante. The 100m high cliffs mean that it is best accessed by boat, which arrive every hour, making it difficult to avoid the crowds. There is a viewing platform atop the cliffs, and the view is well worth the climb.

The northern coast is filled with caves and eroded cliffs, making it perfect for boat trips. The most spectacular is the Kianoun Cave which is best viewed in the morning.


Weather:
The weather on Zante is amazing. The average temperature in July and August is about 31C, there is little rainfall and loads of sunshine. The winters are cooler but still mild, with the average maximum of 15C.


Getting There:
There are direct flights from Athens to Zante, and some charter flights from European cities. Ferries to Zante go from Kyllini in the Peloponnese, and there are also good connections from the other Ionian Islands including Corfu.