Zante Travel Guide
Turtles and paint parties are an unlikely pairing. But, Zante is the island of choice for both the loggerhead turtle and freshers looking to party their summers away. And, from there, it would be easy to dismiss this Ionian isle – if you’re not particularly fond of hedonism or sea creatures. But, there’s a whole island of idyllic escapes, tree-topped wilderness and stunning beaches just waiting for you to land in. Though, beautifully, Zante lets you quite happily flump down on a sun lounger for a fortnight and do little except enjoy the Greek hospitality. A rare treat in these times of explorative Insta stories. Equally, you can skip away from your beach towel to find intriguing ruins, underwater worlds of seagrass meadows and marine life, vine-filled wine estates and wildlife peppered salt flats.
Sure, there are jeep safaris, rusty shipwrecks, private boat charters, sea kayaking tours and quirky little museums to mooch through. But, ultimately, a day page flipping through your holiday novel will never feel like a day wasted. Yes, you’ll likely hear murmurs of turtle spotting echoing around the hotel pool, but if there’s one thing Zante’s turtles could do with? It’s a little peace and quiet.
Zante Travel Guide
Turtles and paint parties are an unlikely pairing. But, Zante is the island of choice for both the loggerhead turtle and freshers looking to party their summers away. And, from there, it would be easy to dismiss this Ionian isle – if you’re not particularly fond of hedonism or sea creatures. But, there’s a whole island of idyllic escapes, tree-topped wilderness and stunning beaches just waiting for you to land in. Though, beautifully, Zante lets you quite happily flump down on a sun lounger for a fortnight and do little except enjoy the Greek hospitality. A rare treat in these times of explorative Insta stories. Equally, you can skip away from your beach towel to find intriguing ruins, underwater worlds of seagrass meadows and marine life, vine-filled wine estates and wildlife peppered salt flats.
Sure, there are jeep safaris, rusty shipwrecks, private boat charters, sea kayaking tours and quirky little museums to mooch through. But, ultimately, a day page flipping through your holiday novel will never feel like a day wasted. Yes, you’ll likely hear murmurs of turtle spotting echoing around the hotel pool, but if there’s one thing Zante’s turtles could do with? It’s a little peace and quiet.
Soundtrack of the city
A slice of island life
3 course meal for 2: £29.18
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A regular cappuccino: £2.08
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A medium beer: £3.13
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One-way (Local Transport): £1.42
A slice of island life
-
3 course meal for 2: £29.18
-
A regular cappuccino: £2.08
-
A medium beer: £3.13
-
One-way (Local Transport): £1.42
Soundtrack of the city
Weather in Zante
For some, the best time to visit Zante is the turtle breeding season. Which, for better or worse, coincides with peak holiday season. Drop by from April to October for turtles. For sun and sizzling beach parties, it’s July and August.
Discover the real Zante
Make no mistake, the real Zante isn’t to be found at the end of a long line of free shots. Whether you can still find it among the tourist-centric hubs remains to be seen. Head north, dip into family-run ventures and listen out for traditional folk songs.
Much of your time here could be spent on or in the sea. And, if you’re not kayaking, swimming and boating in Ionian waters, you’ll be looking at them. Or possibly snorkelling. Do try to head inland once in a while, the views, vineyards and Venetian Castle are worth it.
Away from the gyros, souvlaki and fries on the strip, Zante’s serving feta laden salads in the salt sea air, home-cooking in gorgeous tavernas and strong Greek coffee next to rich baklava. Foodies will not go hungry – but be sure to investigate the small, but historic wine scene.
Zante’s huge collection of beaches – along with the island’s secret nooks and crannies all compete for your time here. Spend more of it sunbathing – and less of it researching, with our tips and hints to make the most of this gorgeous Greek island.
- See & do
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Much of your time here could be spent on or in the sea. And, if you’re not kayaking, swimming and boating in Ionian waters, you’ll be looking at them. Or possibly snorkelling. Do try to head inland once in a while, the views, vineyards and Venetian Castle are worth it.
- Food & Drink
-
Away from the gyros, souvlaki and fries on the strip, Zante’s serving feta laden salads in the salt sea air, home-cooking in gorgeous tavernas and strong Greek coffee next to rich baklava. Foodies will not go hungry – but be sure to investigate the small, but historic wine scene.
- Guides & tips
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Zante’s huge collection of beaches – along with the island’s secret nooks and crannies all compete for your time here. Spend more of it sunbathing – and less of it researching, with our tips and hints to make the most of this gorgeous Greek island.
- Map View
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More of Ionian Islands
Island hopping around the Ionian Islands puts you right in the midst of stunning beaches, gorgeous Greek villages, magical scenery and a bountiful menu of watersport options. Banana boat your way across the waves or take mindful steps through historic streets. At the end of it all, expect to sit down to plates of Greek gastronomy that’s sublime in its simplicity.
