Villas in Zakynthos, Greece

Leisure pursuits, including cycling, hiking, horseback riding and nature trails, offer wonderful ways to enjoy the changeable Zakynthos landscape – from its rolling hills and olive groves to scented citrus orchards. A divers’ paradise, this Greek Island has an underwater world well worthy of exploration. On land, in between the sharp-edged rocks and protected white sandy beaches, you can watch the famous sea-turtles, native to Zakynthos, find refuge to reproduce. Paragliding, banana rides, pedalos and canoes are also available to help you cool off on your villa holiday in the dazzling sun.

Modern amenities are a feature of this Greek Island, but a long history steeped in tradition is also waiting to be discovered in Zakynthos. Beautiful orthodox churches, archaeological sites and Venetian castle ruins are dotted all around. Quiet villages and traditional stone houses line narrow streets, often perched in the mountains. Museums celebrate the Byzantine era and Greek literary works. Baroque and Renaissance architecture is also found all over Zakynthos, proudly maintained by its Greek Island native inhabitants.

The superb beaches of Zakynthos are famed for their natural, unspoilt beauty, fine white volcanic sand and turquoise waters. A Greek Island full of coastline variations, you’ll find rugged natural beaches nestled in rocky formations and little private, pine-clad islets for total seclusion. To protect the habitat of the endangered sea-turtle, many bays forbid building work and nightlife. Sunbeds and parasols can be found in most villa holiday resorts, alongside a wide variety of watersports facilities, snack bars and tavernas.

Zakynthos has a great variety of night-time entertainment with something to suit every taste. In early evening, bars and outside terraces offer magnificent views out to sea – best enjoyed over a soothing cocktail. Later on, the livelier atmosphere and faster tempo found in Zakynthos is perfect for dancing into the early hours. Traditional tavernas and nightspots are found in smaller resorts, with amenities that appeal to all ages. Live music, cabaret and authentic Greek dancing are among the best attractions.

• Take a boat trip round the island and explore the amazing blue-water caves and stunning Shipwreck Bay

• At sunset, look out to sea and watch for Mediterranean monk seals from the tiny cliff-top hamlet of Kambi

• Try the local ‘popolaro’ white wine and the honey-sweetened mandoláto nougat

• Join a glass-bottomed boat trip and observe the nesting loggerhead turtles in Laganas Bay

• Drive into the mountains and discover the traditional Zakynthian way of life at ancient towns and villages like Kiliomenos and Agios Leon.

• Catch the ferry to neighbouring Kefalonia for the day and explore its many golden sandy beaches.