Zakynthos: The Jewel of the Ionian Sea
Zakynthos, the jewel of the Ionian Sea, is one of the most beautiful Greek islands, a true paradise for nature lovers. The island got its name from Zakynthos, son of Dardanus, who was the leader of the first inhabitants. The coastline is full of stunning cliffs and turquoise water bays. The "zakynthos_myzithres_millstones.jpg" image shows the Myzithres rocks, which rise from the sea on the southern part of the Keri peninsula. These two huge rocks, the Big and the Small Myzithres, are one of the island's most iconic sights. In the "zakynthos_myzithres.jpg" image, we can admire these rocks from a distance, as they stand in the deep, clear water.
The western coast of the island is particularly dramatic and breathtaking. The "zakynthos_west.jpg" image was taken from the western coastline, where the turquoise sea stretches to the horizon. The water here is crystal clear, and the rocks on the seabed are clearly visible in the shallower parts. The "zakynthos_blue.jpg" and "zakynthos_greek_skyline.jpg" images show the incredibly vibrant blue colors of the western side of the island. The contrast between the deep sea blue and the lighter, turquoise colors near the shore is unforgettable. In the distance, the mountains of the Peloponnese peninsula can also be seen, which makes the view even more picturesque.
The southern and eastern sides of the island are a bit gentler, but here too, we find beautiful landscapes. The "zakynthos.jpg" image was taken from a hill, showing a view of the coastal settlements. Olive and cypress trees are green on the hillsides, and in the valleys, houses and cultivated fields are lined up. The "zakynthos_agalas.jpg" image shows a coastal settlement near Agalas, where the meeting of the hills and the coast creates an idyllic environment. A few scattered buildings and a house built on a hill are also visible on the coast, which is characteristic of the local architecture.
The Keri Caves and the Breathtaking Sea
The island is also famous for its blue caves, which were formed by sea erosion. The "zakynthos_keri_port.jpg" and "zakynthos_ceri_caves.jpg" images show the caves around Keri Bay. You can enter the Keri Caves with small boats, and the turquoise color of the water in the caves provides a special sight. The small harbor shown in the "zakynthos_keri_port.jpg" image is the starting point for cave tours. There is also a small, sandy section on the shore, which is ideal for relaxation. The "zakynthos_ceri_caves.jpg" image shows the rocky shore and the entrance to the caves, as the calm waves of the sea wash the shore. The water is incredibly clear, and for visitors, snorkeling is also a great experience.
The contrast between the steep, rocky coast and the blue of the sea is breathtaking. In the Blue Caves, the water turns a brilliant blue due to the sunlight pouring in, which is how they got their name. This natural phenomenon is one of the most popular tourist attractions. Zakynthos is a true island of diverse landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and stunning natural wonders. You can admire its unspoiled beauty along the rocky coastlines, at the **Myzithres** rocks, the **Keri Caves**, and the dramatic scenery of the western coast. In contrast, the gentler topography of the eastern and southern shores, with their villages and olive groves, radiates a sense of peace. The island is an unforgettable destination where the beauty of nature and the sea unfolds before your eyes. Even the clouds are beautiful here, often dotting the wonderfully shimmering blue sky. Travelers should make sure to explore both the wild western coast and the peaceful bays of the eastern side. The small harbor of **Keri Bay** is an ideal starting point for sea adventures. Greek hospitality and a relaxed Mediterranean lifestyle are palpable everywhere on the island. The coast of Zakynthos offers numerous stunning beaches. The western part of the island features dramatic cliffs and beautiful yet hard-to-reach bays that await adventurers, such as the world-famous **Navagio**, or Shipwreck Bay. In contrast, the sandy, gently sloping beaches of the southern and eastern coasts are ideal for families and those seeking relaxation, like **Tsilivi** or **Laganas**. Zakynthos is one of the most important nesting sites in the Mediterranean for the **Caretta caretta**, also known as the loggerhead sea turtle. These endangered sea turtles gather particularly along the shores of **Laganas Bay**, where they can lay their eggs in protected areas under calm conditions. On many of the island's coastlines, you have the opportunity to observe them as they swim in the shallow waters.
