Zakynthos (also known as Zante) is the third largest of the Ionian Islands. It covers an area of 405.55 km2 (156.6 sq mi) and its coastline is roughly 123 km (76 mi) in length.
The name, like all similar names ending in -nthos, is pre-Mycenaean or Pelasgian in origin. The ancient Greek poet Homer mentioned Zakynthos in the Iliad and the Odyssey, stating that its first inhabitants were the son of King Dardanos of Arcadia, called Zakynthos, and his men.
Zakynthos has a rich cultural history too, with the national poet (Dionisios Solomos) hailing from the island, as well as other well respected authors, poets and musicians. You can also find several really old and unique monasteries on the island. The locals are really fond of “omilia”, which is a traditional street theatre and is performed all over the island by different groups almost throughout the year.
Here is a 3d map of the island:
Our island is a popular tourist destination and is most famous for the Shipwreck Beach, that has been voted numerous times as one of the best beaches in the world.
Other popular sites are the Turtle Island (Marathonisi), the Blue Caves, the turtle nesting beach of Gerakas, the Keri caves etc.
The island is lush and green year round and the climate is warm and moderately more wet than the mainland. Winters are mild and summers are usually hot and dry.
Peak season is July and August, but you can visit the island from April to November, off season visits are much better to enjoy the sites in peace and relative privacy.