My love affair with Greece and the Greek Islands started when I was in my early teens and I first visited this beautiful country. The affair is still on-going and I visit Greece at any opportunity I get. One of my favourite destinations is the beautiful Zakynthos, otherwise known as Zante, and in this article I'm hoping to show you all about this island in a bite size summary.

 

As is the case with much of Greece, the history of Zante is rich, first mentioned by Homer in his famous historical books the Iliad and The Odyssey. Coveted by many of the world's biggest empires, Zakynthos has found itself under British, Turkish and even French rule over the years, but is now well and truly a part of Greece.

 

Zante is around 30 miles long and 14 miles wide, covering 158 square miles in total with a 76 mile coastline surrounded by beautiful smaller islands, some of which are uninhabited (and even up for sale if you look in the right places). The population is a modest 45,000.

 

These days, the island boasts a thriving tourist industry, making it one of the best places to visit for holiday makers and those looking for a traditional break. Many travel agents around Europe offer package deals to the island and people come from further afield to see its beautiful sites.

 

The flora and fauna of Zakynthos is very typical of Mediterranean countries, with some beautiful scattered Greek buildings. Greece is famous for its stunning architectural history which isn't only seen in Athens but all of the islands surrounding the mainland too. Some of the most famous tourist hangouts and beautiful spots in the country include coves and stunning beaches with golden sand and clear blue seas. Beach lovers be alert, Zante offers some of the greatest sun sea and sand in the whole of Europe.

 

Zante is also famous for its loggerhead turtles, an endangered species who are well cared for by the locals, who will happy to direct you to where you might see them. You might not be able to mix with them all the time, though, as they are very well protected during their mating systems and whilst rearing their young.

 

Zante has an international airport and is fairly easily accessible, it makes a great spot for a holiday, for families or for backpackers and boasts stunning scenery, good nightlife and extremely tasty Greek food. A must visit on your next journey around Europe.