Zante’s coastline is one of the most dramatic in Greece. Iconic Navagio (Shipwreck) Beach tends to steal the limelight, but the rest of the island offers a varied, genuinely beautiful natural landscape. Think emerald hillsides and hidden coves. Wander sleepy mountain villages, linger over long taverna lunches, taste local wine in family-run vineyards and watch the sun sink into the Ionian Sea from a quiet clifftop instead of a crowded bar strip. Zante is strikingly green with olive groves, vineyards and cypress trees blanketing the hills.

Zante is also an important habitat for wildlife, particularly the loggerhead sea turtle. The protected beaches around Laganas Bay are some of the most significant nesting sites in the Mediterranean. Responsible boat tours (keeping a respectful distance) allow clients to see turtles in the wild, rather than in captivity. The protected status of the National Marine Park means certain beaches maintain a wonderfully unspoilt feel.

During our stay in Zante we took a boat trip along the coast to spot the turtles and we got to learn a little about them too. This has actually been on my bucket list to do this so that’s another thing I have managed to tick off.

My top tip for Turtle spotting: If you take an excursion try to get a smaller boat. We were on a bigger boat for our trip and we did not get as close to see the turtles as the smaller boats did.

Zante’s culinary scene goes far beyond tourist menus and club cocktails. Try local dishes like slow-cooked lamb and fresh seafood in cliffside restaurants overlooking the sunset, or simple beach tavernas with feet-in-the-sand dining. The island is dotted with small, family-owned vineyards and olive presses with tasting sessions available.

For my holiday in Zante I stayed at the 5* Atlantica Eleon Grand Resort on all inclusive basis.<br/>This hotel is located on the picturesque coast line of Tragaki, on the eastern part of the island of Zante with crystal clear waters of the Ionian Sea. We picked this hotel as we wanted to stay somewhere quieter and Tragaki was perfect although if you do want to venture out, the busier resort of Tsilivi, with all its bars, clubs, and family-run tavernas, is just a 5 minute taxi ride from the hotel.

The hotel is a luxury resort on the beach but as it is based on farm full of olive trees, it does have a lovely rustic Greek feel. There is a variety of rooms including garden and sea view rooms, suites and rooms with private pools. There is a busier main pools with activities, a quieter infinity pool with views of the Ionian Sea and a kids pool aswell as a small waterpark area with slides. There are activities for all ages and entertainment every day and evening. There is a spa with indoor pool, a fully-equipped gym, tennis, archery and a small gift shop onsite.

Now the food and drink! …. The food here was amazing with such a massive choice! There is buffet breakfast, lunch and evening meal with huge spreads and themed nights featuring Asian, Italian, Surf & Turf, Street Food and Greek …. Which was our favourite! If you fancy something extra special you can eat at either the Mediterranean or Italian à la carte restaurants. There is a pool snack bar open during the day time and a main bar serving drinks and cocktails on the terrace.

 I would absolutely recommend the Atlantica Eleon Grand Resort to people of all ages, couple, groups and families.

 If your idea of Zante is nature, culture, great food and authentic Greek hospitality or you would prefer one of the party resorts like Laganas .... I can help you find the perfect choice for you.

 I have a massive choice of apartments, smaller authentic and boutique hotels and bigger all inclusive properties .... so hotels to suit every taste and every budget. 

Let me know if you would like more information on Zante.