Zakynthos, also known as Zante , is the third largest and southernmost Greek island in the Ionian Sea off the western coast of the mainland. The island is a tourist destination, especially among British tourists , with an international airport served by charter flights from all over northern Europe . The western half of the island is a mountainous plateau, while the southwest coast consists of mostly steep cliffs.
The eastern half is a densely populated fertile plain with long sandy beaches and is also home to the town of Zakynthos, also known as Chora. While temperatures are in the 30sC during the summer months, Zakynthos still has temperatures in the high 20sC in September. The average daily maximum during this month is 27.
6C, according to NOAA . In 1953, the island was hit by a massive 7.3-magnitude earthquake , which destroyed much of the buildings on the island.
Subsequently, all buildings have been strengthened to protect against future tremors. Since the mid-1980s, Zakynthos has become a hub for 18-to-30-year-old tourists, leading to Alykanas and Laganas (previously quiet villages) becoming the new home of clubbing hotels, nightclubs, bars and restaurants. However, for those wanting a quieter scene, it is possible to leave these areas behind for unspoiled nature and golden beaches with crystal clear water.
With an area of over 156 square miles, Zakynthos boasts a coastline 76 miles in length. Gerakas Beach is the southernmost beach of Zakynthos and is definitely one of.