Zakynthos
Wednesday, October 21st, 2009Zakynthos, or Zante as the visitor more commonly knows it, is also referred to as the “Flower of the Orient” for it truly is an island of exceptional beauty. The locals are renowned for their true Greek hospitality, which probably accounts for why so many holidaymakers return to the island time and time again.
Geographically the island is the most southern of the six Ionian Islands located off western mainland Greece. It is approximately 40km long and 17km wide giving an area of over 400 sq. km and hosts a population of approximately 45,000 with an extra 300,000 holidaymakers during the summer months.
The island has a Mediterranean climate providing long hot summers and warm wet winters. Zakynthos gets a lot of rainfall during the winter months and this is the reason it is very green and fertile. The countryside is covered in wildflowers, especially in the spring, and the island has rich vegetation including raisins, olives, vines and citrus fruits.
Zakynthos is well known as one of the favourite nesting sites during the summer months of the Loggerhead turtle Caretta Caretta. Turtles can easily be spotted if you visit the beaches where they lay their eggs during nesting time.
The main town Zakynthos was destroyed in the earthquake of 1953 and since then the town has been rebuilt in a similar style of its former architecture. Today design and construction of buildings in the whole of Greece have to comply with European standards and there are stringent regulations regarding earthquake protection.
There is definitely something special about this idyllic island. Whether you come just to visit or to stay for good, the magic of Zakynthos will remain in your memory forever.
Kalamaki
Kalamaki is located in the south east of the island Zakynthos and is known as a quiet and sophisticated resort. It is located less than 5 km from the capital town of Zakynthos and it is also near (3 km) to the most popular resort on the island, Lagana. Therefore a stay at Kalamaki combines the best of both worlds, a chance to enjoy the facilities and nightlife in Lagana or to spend a tranquil holiday in quieter locations. Kalamaki has managed to maintain its Greek feel even though this resort is becoming increasing popular with tourists; the relaxed and slow place of life are still very apparent.
The beach at Kalamaki is part of Laganas bay. Although it is not as big as Laganas beach it is still a nice sandy beach with gently shelving water. Parts of Kalamaki beach are restricted for the turtles to use as a breading ground. Turtles can be spotted during the summer months simply by taking a pedalo out and not even to very deep waters!
The nightlife in this resort is not as lively as Lagana but there are several bars and classy restaurants to entertain you during the evening. The night can be spent fine dining, drinking or a bit of dancing if the mood takes you. This is a lovely resort, which is also ideal for families.