Homer refers to the island in his works the Iliad and Odyssey, stating that Zakynthos, a prince of Troy and son of King Dardanos arrived here somewhere between 1500 and 1600 BC. The Italians named it Zacinto and in more recent years, following the struggle for national independence, it became Zante. Today, the island, with its reputation for fun has become one of the most popular holiday destinations in Greece and the names Zakynthos and Zante are used interchangeably, when referring to the island.
One of its main attractions is arranged by Mother Nature. Every year, great numbers of loggerhead turtles descend upon the Bay of Laganas in Zante to nest. The wonder of young hatchlings bravely venturing towards the sea is beautiful and miraculous, and draws a fair amount of tourists.
The invitingly azure waters draw human visitors to Zante as well. The coastline alternates between craggy rock features and golden, sandy beaches. The East Coast of the island has numerous small coves that are ideal for snorkelling and underwater exploration. The West Coast offers amazing cliffside views and beautifully painted sunset skies. The island is also unusually fertile. Olive groves are found everywhere and a variety of fruits and vegetables are cultivated here. Not everyone, though, seeks their holiday fun by daylight and the flipside of Zante's allure is the vibrant party atmosphere that often lasts until sunrise.
TABLE OF CONTENTS: Introduction to Zakynthos (Zante) Overview Culture Location & Orientation Climate & When to Visit Sightseeing Highlights Zante Town Solomos Square Byzantine Museum of Zakynthos Museum of Solomos and Kalvos Venetian Castle Mansion of the Roma Family Vertzagio Folk Museum Laganas The National Marine Park Tsilivi Tsilivi Waterpark Water Village Argassi Beaches of Zante Nightlife of Zante Diving in Zante Recommendations For The Budget Traveller Places to Stay Zante Star Hotel Strada Marina Cronulla Hotel Poseidon Beach Hotel Contessa Hotel Places to Eat Thymalos Obelix Restaurant The Green Frog Olive Tree Horizon Restaurant Places to Shop Zante Pleasures O Zakynthos Gold M Buying Ceramics in Zante Levantino Gift Shop
