Awesome Zakynthos. Island: reviews and attractions

The Greek word "zakynthos" has long attracted tourists. Even in his pronunciation there is something fascinating. But he's so polysemantic, this Zakynthos. Island (reviews about it will be given below), then the reserve, as well as the city. They all bear the same name. The reserve is actually the first national marine park in Greece. It was created for the sake of a unique turtle, which is included in the list of endangered species. After all, only on the local shores she lays eggs. In addition, there are still seals, endemic trees and grass grow.

What else is meant by the word "Zakynthos"? The island, the reviews of which cause envy in those who are forced to sit in their office, and before the holidays are still so long. It is practically the most southerly of the Greek islands of the Ionian Sea. Tourists know that it is famous for its bays with magnificent panoramic views (for example, Navajo). If mostly go to Greece - except for beach holidays - in hiking through museums and shopping, then these places are visited for the sake of their beauty and meditation. Experienced travelers claim that everything here as if in abundance. The sea is incredibly blue, the beaches are huge and golden, the pines are emerald green. This is the island of Zakynthos. Greece, a photo of which allows tourists to view travel agencies, it's quite different here. This place of rest was liked even by the Olympic gods, and people always admired him - from Homer to the medieval Venetians.

So, Zakynthos. The island - reviews, as well as descriptions of its nature are full of delight - not very big. Residents here mainly grow olives and citrus fruits, in the north there are beautiful mountains and the world-famous "blue caves" - grottoes with a stunning color of water. There are also the most amazing bays, including "Shipwreck". True, there are relatively few settlements here, which made it possible to preserve almost original nature. But the most "wild" beaches can be reached only on a rented boat, and it is advisable to do it early in the morning. And there are forty-four villages in all. True, most of them from fishing have already turned into first-class resorts. But this is the "beach" Greece (islands). Zakynthos, whose hotels are very different, can provide both budget "troika" - "quartet", and high-class exclusive hotels. For Russian tourists, even the all-inclusive system has appeared. However, all these hotels are small, compact, there are no huge "a la carte" facilities.

Now the city of Zakynthos. The island (the reviews, as we have seen, are very commendable) has its own capital of the same name. She is also on the beach. This city seems to be surrounded by a kind of aura of the Venetian presence. Indeed, the famous Italian trade republic had long owned it, so all the local architecture bears this imprint. There is even St. Mark's Square and a cathedral dedicated to the same evangelist. Almost all the ancient ruins were built up by Venetian fortifications and temples. The most beautiful fortress is on the hill of Bokali, next to which is a good walk on a hot day and drink coffee in one of the authentic Greek institutions.