The staff do an amazing job at the rescue centre and have lots of knowledge. However, if you dont drive, no problem! The water is shallow and really warm in summer, making it feel like youre spending time in bathwater. This incredible Greek island has so much to explore that youll never be bored. Once at the top, you can explore the small cave and enjoy incredible views of the island and sea below. The beach itself is small and rocky, so actually it is good that not many people come here. Of the seven turtle species, this one is the largest of them all, weighing up to around 700 kg (1500 lbs). Its calm waters are great for swimming and snorkelling, so if you're looking for an underwater adventure, this is the perfect place. The National Marine Park of Zakynthos was established to preserve the coastal area and creating a safe place where Caretta caretta turtles can nest. The strip of clubs and bars in Laganas is world-famous for its party scene. Boat trips from the listed departure points take. Every inhabitant and settler seems to have been inspired by the island. Known locally as Caretta Caretta Turtles and by tourists as Zante Turtles or Zakynthos Turtles, Loggerheads are one of the world's most frequently studied sea turtles. Zante is an island made for exploring. We want that for you, too, which is why we have carefully crafted a list of some of the top attractions and hidden gems on Zante. Porto Vromi and Agios Nikolaos are the closest starting points for boat trips. To reach this unique place, drive to Agalas and follow the signs that will take you to the parking area. After dinner, head to Fantasy Mini Golf to play a game on one of their three fun-themed courses, or head over to Bowl m Over to play ping-pong, billiards, foosball, and much more. You can cancel this reservation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. You wont be the first to fall in love with Zante and you certainly wont be the last. Therefore, it is not the best ares the stay for families, but couples, solo travelers and visitors who love a lively atmosphere will find it perfect. Askos Stone Park. Turtle-spotting Cruise of Marathonisi Island and Keri Peninsula Marathonisi, also nicknamed Turtle Island, is only accessible by boat and offers tourists pristine white sand beaches and dramatic caves to discover, as well as a chance to spot some of the famous turtle nests! The sandy bottom and excellent visibility offer perfect conditions for snorkeling. Next to Laganas, there is another popular Zakynthos snorkeling spot, Kalamaki Beach that is located in a protected ara. To follow her adventures, check out her Instagram and Facebook pages! If you time your village visit to coincide with a festival, youll experience the kantathes. Laganas has to offer something for all types of beachgoers, although it is a tourist hotspot with vibrant nightlife. There are a few options and some will even take you into the sea! While most tourists will make their way to the Blue Caves via a boat trip, the Keri Caves are just as beautiful and less crowded for swimming. the canopies over the nests. When & Where to Swim with Sea Turtles: Ultimate Travel Guide you would like to know more about Turtles then here are some links:-. Marathonissi Island Zante Greece | Thomas Cook Youll have the most beautiful spots on the island all to yourself! You can visit the Blue Caves (yes, no other name would do) at the north of the island or the Keri Caves in the south and youll know exactly what we mean. Whereas, Kos is closer to Turkey, far offshore to Greece's East. The injured or sick sea turtle will be representing their own species and help raise awareness to the public. Zante is renowned for raucous nightlife, but theres a far more authentic side to the Venetians 'Fiore di Levante' (flower of the Levante) . Enter the incense-scented Zoodoxo Pigi church to see richly gilded Byzantine icons, and then hike back down to Bochali village nearby and order a beer and meze snacks in one of the cafs . This uninhabited islet off the coast of the main island got its name because of its turtle shape and because it is also an important nesting site. Explore and discover Laganas Bay (National Marine Park of Zakynthos) by a Glass Bottom Boat. It attracts thousands of visitors each year and stands out for its verdant landscape. There are beaches where you cannot enter because of the presence of nests, but your captain will take you to those spots where its allowed to swim. Here, you can hang out in cabanas or take a dip in the pool while sipping cocktails and listening to DJs. An informative guided visit is followed by a tasting session, when crusty local bread is dipped into fruity green oil. Sometimes inquisitive, sometimes indifferent to your presences, they rarely show any traits of aggression or discomfort. On average, they only give birth once every two to three years, mating for a period of up to six weeks, so it's an . Looking for great ideas to build your holiday around? 15 Best Things to Do in Zakynthos (Zante), Greece - Road Affair More specifically, if you want to see the Great Migration in the Serengeti then May to July are the best months to visit, when the plains are lush and green. Shell-fies. Your email address will not be published. important of these is Sekania. Price: . This Greek island offers a thrilling mix of natural wonders and exhilarating activities that will get your heart racing. 12 Best Aruba Snorkeling Tours Which Should You Choose? You can drive down on a concrete road until you reach the parking area. Private Boat Trip to Turtle Island and the CavesIf youd like to have an exclusive experience, then look no further than this private tour where your skipper will show you some of Zakynthos most beautiful places. Your email address will not be published. So for your inspiration, head to Bochali, a small village on a promontory at the back of the main town. Just dont forget your camera. 11. Thats quite astounding, considering it began its life being less than 5 centimetres long! It is the best way to find a car as the website scans hundreds of rental car websites to find you the best prices! WHERE TO STAY NEAR THE AIRPORT: Kalamaki. The tour lasts approximately 7-8 hours, so it is excellent value for money! So be sure you plan a trip to a local winery, where you can meet the winemakers and learn all about the passions that drive them. Top 22 must-visit places in Slovenia! November to March are calving season, so also a great time for spotting baby animals. Things to do in Zante (Zakynthos): Excursions and Activities There are other attractions in Planos if you plan on spending the day. This of course coincides with the peak holiday season. Boat Tours to Zakynthos Marine Park take place twice a day. And second, third and fourth. The answer is fairly simple. Sunbeds are present on the shore for those who want to spend time lounging. Sail through the crystal blue waters of the Ionian sea, enjoy the sunshine and feel the sea breezes on this amazing sightseeing cruise from Zakynthos. Contact: 00 30 26950 31650; facebook.com Aurelia Teslaru is a professional travel blogger and the writer behind Daily Travel Pill. soft sand on a Turtle beach as they can puncture an egg and the Best time: December to March Nesting season: December to March Hatching season: February to May Find a liveaboard in the galapagos 2. Required fields are marked *. Making fires on beaches is strictly forbidden. The 13 Best Places to Swim and Dive with Sea Turtles - PADI Blog You can cancel this reservation up to 3 days in advance for a full refund. as a new road has been built behind the bars to accommodate the The Great Barrier Reef, Australia The Great Barrier Reef is the largest coral reef system in the world. Afterward, guests can enjoy a bite to eat at the Orizodes Restaurant and Skybar while taking in panoramic views of the island and sea. How to get to Turtle Island, Zakynthos, 6. The Best Time To Travel To Zante 2023 - Uncharted Zante By car or taxi: 32km (50mins) from Zakynthos town. The best time to see them is between May and October, which is also the best time to visit the island of Zakynthos, and for that matter, the whole of Greece itself. Zante offers its in the form of sunsets. Respect the marine life and the plants and animals on shore. Zante, or Zakynthos, sits offshore of Greece's West coast. They do allow travelers to hike the trail for free, after all! If you do visit Shipwreck beach in July-August, try and get there early in the morning or in the late afternoon when its cooler and quieter. There are also the remains of old stone stables and houses, cisterns, and other ruins to discover. The information center opened to the public in 2012, and has since encouraged visitors to take a closer look at the natural beauty, wildlife, and rich heritage of Zakynthos, and promoted the importance of sustainable tourism. The best months are between May and October and these are also the best months to plan a trip to Greece. hatchlings being born about 60 days after the eggs have been laid. Recognising the need to protect these creatures, the Greek Government formed the National Zakynthos Marine Park in 1999, encompassing the entire Laganas Gulf, of which Marathonisi Island forms an integral part. Top six things to do in Zante. The cobblestone paths, lush fields, and wood pergolas make for an unbeatable ambiance. If If you are interested in supporting this cause donations are accepted here. Kos vs Zante: Greece's Western or Eastern Islands? - Travel Snippet So lets get your heart thumping by sharing some of the best things to do on your holidays in Zante. Visit Navagio Beach (Shipwreck Beach) & Xigia Beach - explore amazing attractions on the Ionian island Zkynthos by car! Its not for nothing that the Venetians called ZakynthosFiore di Levante, the Flower of the East. Easybreath full face mask review Is it good for snorkeling? Consisting of a series of caves, arches and rugged rock formations, this section of the island provides some unusual but spectacular snorkelling and scuba diving spots. regulations also ensure that no boats are allowed in this area. to help yourself as they can give you a nasty bite. There are six We attract an estimated 15,000 tourists from across the globe every year! Link successfully copied to the clipboard. Our favorite Zakynthos snorkeling spot is Filippoi Beach. Turtle Island (Marathonisi) Photo by David Mark/Pixabay The name alone should be enough to get you packing the snorkel gear and hopping on a boat to this spot. You wont need any encouragement to learn about them and even less to drink them. For further Zante inspiration, see our guides to the isalnds's besthotels,restaurantsandnightlife. Insider's tip: Never disturb the turtles, or stay on the beaches after sunset when they could be nesting or hatching out. The first is by hiking. Captain spiros is a fantastic host and you're almost guaranteed to see turtles. This seemingly insignificant rock is however, of high significance, providing one of the last remaining breeding grounds of the endangered loggerhead turtles in Zante (scientific name: Caretta Caretta) and in the entire Mediterranean. There are over 19,000 acres dedicated to growing vines on Zante and dozens of different grape varieties. Their habitat includes the Indian, Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, as well as the Mediterranean. Enter the incense-scented Zoodoxo Pigi church to see richly gilded Byzantine icons, and then hike back down to Bochali village nearby and order a beer and meze snacks in one of the cafs clustered around the square. You will also receive a small plate of bread, cheese, and olive oil to nibble on while you sip your wine. Situated on the opposite side of the island, but only a few minutes away, the secondary beach lies hidden behind the Marathonisi Caves, and below some towering cliffs. Since then, many governments started providing funding and passed legislation to protect these slow-growing and low-reproducing creatures. The island of Zakynthos has many beautiful landscapes, with the Blue Caves being one of the most popular to visit. The marine life here is incredibly diverse, so it easy to spend several hours in the water. 5 -10 min walk down the road. There are so many great beaches in Zante, it seems wrong to highlight just a few. From there, it is a 100-meter uphill hike. There are also two even tinier islands nearby, so small, the locals have named them Pontikonisia (Mouse Islands). Insider's tip: Dont miss the other rooms dedicated to the life and times of other famous island scholars, including celebrated Greek Revolution poet Andreas Kalvos. After flying into Athens International Airport, rent a car and drive the 3.5 hours to Kyllini. The temperatures are bearable, the prices are lower, and . main nesting beaches in the Bay of Lagana, by far the most In the past years, the numbers of loggerhead turtles were estimated at several million, but only about 50000 exist in the world today. Daily 3 hours trip for turtle spotting to the Turtle island and Keri Caves. The Turtles of Zante Hundreds of tourists and locals gather in this Zakynthos town to dance, drink, and party at beach clubs with private pools. Other critically endangered species that can be found frolicking in this protected zone, which stretches from wild and lonely Cape Marathia to Gerakas talc-soft beach, include doe-eyed Mediterranean monk seals. The path is well marked, and there are ropes to hold onto for support as well, but definitely bring proper footwear as the ground is very uneven. Zakynthos Turtle TripCameo Island, Keri Caves and - Viator If youre looking to party it up during the day, head over to Pure Beach Clubs for their incredible day events. In 1978 they were listed as an endangered species, meaning they were in danger of becoming extinct. With crystalline blue waters, magnificent caves and dramatic rock formations, swimming and snorkeling is fantastic here. Slightly more expensive that others but worth every penny. But, the adult loggerhead turtles spending their time here swimming over the sea grass meadows don't seem to mind. These creatures are an absolute miracle of nature. When in Zakynthos, it is a perfect choice to have a comfortable day at the beach! Are you looking for things to do in Zante town? By car or taxi: 36km (1hr) from Zakynthos town, Agios Nikolaos (northeast) You will visit Cameo Islet and Marathonisi Island, which are their natural habitat. 7-day road trip from Thessaloniki into northern Greece, Take a boat trip to Shipwreck beach in Zante (Navagio) and discover what makes it the most famous beach in Zakynthos, Keri Caves, another landmark in Zakynthos, The water in Navagio often radiates impossible shades of blue, from the mineral deposits in the caves around the beach. Instead, youll go out searching for turtles and snorkel alongside them. Did you enjoy your visit at Zakynthos Sea Turtle Rescue and Information Center? The best months are between May and October and these are also the best months to plan a trip to Greece. And to cap the sense of mystery, its a beach accessible only by sea. What is Slovenia best known for? Last but not least, food is a powerful lure here: sit in a rustic sea view tavern sipping local Verdea white wine with a plate full of traditional kouneli stifado garlic and tomato-soaked rabbit stew and youll be hooked. Let's get to know each other better! During these tours, guests can go snorkeling and check out the shipwreck, stroll along the white sand beach, and explore the famous Blue Caves on the coast. Excursion to Zakynthos Marine Park with a 9 to 34-Passenger Boat. When the MV Panagiotis ran aground on a sandy cove in northwest Zakynthos in 1980, no one could have predicted that one of Europes most iconic beaches would be born. Dig deep into the soul of this culture-loving island at the Solomos Museum, which is dedicated to Greeces national poet, who was born here in 1798. The Ionian island (known as Zakynthos in Greek) has a way of connecting with its visitors. Oh,yesit is! Dafni is about 30 minutes from Laganas. Find her photos on @anett.szaszi Instagram too! Your email address will not be published. Late summer in Zakynthos - Greece without the crowds - Heather on her Make sure you follow any instructions about where you can sit on the beach, as there have been some landslides in the past. If you seek out a secluded Zakynthos snorkeling beach where there is a high chance to see turtles, make sure to go to Dafni Beach. In the water, cold and warm streams are mixing and you can see white flakes (sulfur that didnt dissolve completely) that look like it is snowing underwater! Where To See Turtles In Greece - 2023 Guide - Traveller's Elixir: A This beautiful beach is one of the top locations in the world to see humongous leatherback turtles all year-round. There are actually two beaches, right next to the coastal road towards Agios Nikolaos. All boat trips are dependent on weather conditions. while swimming please inform the nearest volunteer don't attempt Youll discover aromatic honey (from bees feeding on local mountain herbs) and peppery olive oil. I recommend visiting Greece in June or early October. Start at pretty Cameo Island, then cruise the marine park in a glass-bottom boatgreat turtle pictures are guaranteed! We recommend marking the location on your map because getting here is a bit tricky since the beach is not visible from the road, it is hidden at the bottom of the bay. Zakynthos in Greece has a reputation for having vibrant blue waters and an impressive landscape with high cliffs and caves. It is also a nesting ground that is observed by marine biologists. If you plan on renting a car, we recommend using Rentalcars.com for all your booking needs. Most trips also stop off at the Blue Caves, so-called because their pale limestone walls give the sea a ghostly turquoise hue. For tips on where to go or what to do check out our other website SeaSpiration.com! Youre pretty much guaranteed to spot a few swimming around Marathonisi Island or anywhere within the entire Gulf of Laganas. From the resort of Kalamaki on Zantes south east coast, its a long, steep hike along thyme-scented, boulder-strewn paths to reach Panagia Skopiotissa (the islands oldest monastery), but its well worth it for the views from this lofty leafy mountaintop whose name Skopos means watchtower. Licence: 020660000796201 | : 125083101000. A turtle spotting boat trip on Zante - in Greece - Heather on her travels Please however follow these few She is interested in sustainable traveling and marine conservation. Although these ancient and prehistoric creatures average around 135 kilograms in weight, they can reach twice that weight. Hi there! Enjoy the Ionian sun while swimming in the crystal-clear waters of the Ionian Sea. Spend a memorable day steeped in history and culture discovering Zakynthos with an expert guide. 10 Best Places to Visit in the Scottish Highlands, 2 Weeks in Vietnam: The Perfect Vietnam Itinerary. especially empty water bottles. simple rules. Marathonisi Island is one of the few remaining turtle nesting sites in the Mediterranean. The tour starts from Laganas Beach and you can book it here. From caves to beautiful blue water beaches, here is a list of the best things to do in Zakynthos. Shipwreck beach * Please note that Shipwreck beach (Navagio) is closed for the 2023 season and access is prohibited . Don't leave litter on the beach Link successfully copied to the clipboard. The Bay of Laganas Tourists can go diving, snorkeling, or take a glass-bottom boat tour of the area. There are a few ways you can experience the area. 1. Every year, hundreds of them lay their eggs at the southern beaches between May and August when you can easily see them while snorkeling in Zakynthos. If youre dying to watch a football match, there are also plenty of sports bars in the town that televise the games. Interesting facts about the Loggerhead turtle, 10. It is less crowded and offers the perfect spot to watch the sunset. The other beaches in The calm, clear and shallow water makes it easy to spot them as well as to get a closer look at the different types of fish present. Another train leaving from Alykes beach chugs through ancient olive groves to visit the high flung mountain villages of Katastari and Pigadakia, and culminates in a boozy tasting session local Graigos wine served with spicy lado tyri cheese and other specialties in the tree-shaded tavern Kaki Rahi. To complete the trip, you will be swimming and snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters around Keri Caves and Mizithres rocks. Re: Turtle Island 5 years ago Save I can't recommend levante boat trips enough. The best time to visit Tanzania for safari | On The Go Tours Best things to do in Zante | Telegraph Travel When you jump into the water, youll immediately notice that the sea here is colder than at other beaches on the island. Shipwreck Beach in Zante has only natural shade and no amenities selling food and drinks, so plan well and dont forget: Beaches are delicate ecosystems so please help keep them in the best possible condition and leave only your footprints. Outside these months, you can track the migration elsewhere in the Serengeti. The cruise also visits Keri cave along the islands southwest coast where you will pass under the islands famous rock arch! I only recommend companies and products that I trust and the income goes to keeping this website running. A truly unique experience. The largest ever recorded loggerhead was a gigantic 450 kg specimen. Other day activities in Laganas include go-karting at Formula Zante Go Karting or horseback riding along the beach at Happy Horse Riding School. Zante clubs will be full to the brim and the vibe will be top. Depending on the tour youve booked, your boat could travel into the caves, where youll be treated to a light show by the dazzling Ionian Sea. Dont forget to buy some olive oil on your way out so you can bring it home and prepare Greek-inspired dishes after your holiday! Marathonisi Looking for paradise? Don't drive on the beach. Whether youre on a boat or just frolicking in the water around Marathonisi Island, Laganas Beach or anywhere else in the gulf, always be on the lookout for turtles, and always carry your goggles and flippers as these creatures often pop up out of nowhere when you least expect them. Don't miss it!, Amazing.This place really fascinated me, and you can share the beach with the turtle nests. This article will guide you through some of the best things to do in Zakynthos, from visiting hidden caves and wine museums to sunning on beaches with healing waters. Youll have the chance to stay on the beach and swim. Anett is a certified scuba diver, freediver and an expert in snorkeling with more than 10 years experience. Why cant our kids do that? Insider's tip: Hire a car most wineries are well off the beaten track. You can rent one from Keri Beach for about 80 per 4 hours. May-June and late September-October are the best and quietest months to visit Zante. Best time to visit Tanzania - Responsible Travel If you come in the shoulder seasons, Korakonissi is very quiet, but in the main season it gets busy. Spotting Turtles on Turtle Island Zakynthos - Goats On The Road Tourists can snorkel and dive in the sea caves via an excursion or, if youre planning on visiting Turtle Island too, you can opt to couple the Keri Caves tour with a trip to Turtle Island and spend the day snorkeling and swimming at the caves and the island. Best Time to Visit Tanzania | Climate Guide | Audley Travel UK Insider's tip:Look out for the Provenal-style faade of Archontiko Roma. If you do visit Shipwreck beach in July-August, try and get there early in the morning or in the late afternoon when it's cooler and quieter. Apart from being the home of many turtles, Marathonisi Island is also one of the main tourist attractions in Zakynthos. In September and October you can still enjoy a swim in the sea but many of the sun-loungers will have been packed away and you can see the natural beauty of the beaches. Without doubt, Marathonisi or Turtle Island, Zakynthos, is one of the best spots in Europe for snorkelers, where youre most likely to encounter loggerhead turtles in the wild. Please take all your provisions for the day with you, and leave only your footprints behind. If you make a purchase through these links, I will earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Just 3 kilometres off Keri Beach, on the Greek Island of Zakynthos, is the tiny uninhabited and completely underdeveloped Marathonisi Island, also known as Turtle Island. This place is so remote that not even locals know it, although it is not difficult to get to. Although Zakynthos Island is an absolute gem of the Ionian Sea, with endless beaches, secluded coves, spectacular scenery, vibrant night life, bursting with the warm Greek hospitality, the turtles of Zakynthos provide an extra reason to visit this stunningly beautiful part of the world. Inside the church, there are gorgeous murals of saints and other religious iconography, though the best thing about this area is probably the incredible panoramic views of the Mediterranean sea and the island. Related posts:Which Greek islands have the best snorkelingSnorkeling beaches in CorfuTop 10 Crete snorkel spotsSnorkeling in Kefalonia. Choose a tour that includes a visit to the Zantes Blue Caves. Xigia Sulfur Beach on the eastern coast is famous for its sulfuric water that is not only healthy for the skin but also an interesting snorkeling spot in Zante. Even though others have been tempted to in the past, please dont write anything on the ship. Where to Stay on Zakynthos: Ultimate Beach Resort Guide You can access this beach by taking a long drive on a winding road, which will take you to a small parking lot. To get up close without disturbing them, take a day trip to Marathonissi better known as Turtle Island with eco-friendly experts Nefis Travel.
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