Zakynthos Highlights

Highlights:

- Tour a traditional olive factory

- Drive through idyllic mountain villages in the north of the island

- Take a boat trip to caves (optional with an extra charge per person for this trip)

- Visit the 15th century monastery of St Dennis, the Patron Saint of the island

We begin our day at about 09.30 after all the guests have been picked up from their resorts and we return around

17.00 hours. (Depending on resort).

Zakynthos is a fantastic island steeped in history and culture. It is very proud of its many local products and crafts from olives, olive oil, sweets, honey, wines to lace, rugs and pottery.

On the way to the mountains we will visit an olive factory. Here we can see how the famous Zakynthian olive oil is produced in the winter.

Continuing northwest passing the mountain village of Kiliomeno and onwards, through

Agios Leon to the village of Kampi. Here we see the spectacular views over the cliffs

and the magnificent view of the out-stretched Ionian Sea. There will also be an

opportunity to have refreshments here. Following on then to Maries, where it is said

Mary Magdalene stopped on her way to Rome to protest the crucifixion of Christ and

started preaching Christianity.

Our next stop will be the visit to the caves in the North of the island. Here guests

can take an optional trip to the Caves. Small boats will take the guests to the caves

which are riddled with hollows eroded by the sea. Blue light is reflected on the walls

making the experience truly magical and definitely worth seeing. 

Also, the sea bottom is coloured as if scattered with precious gems. Anyone not wishing to go out on the boats can relax on shore or take a quick dip. (There will be an extra charge per person for the boat trip)

The next stop will be Anafonitria here we will visit the famous monastery of St Dennis - the

patron Saint of the Island. 

Here St Dennis served as an Abbot for the majority of his life until his death on the 17th December 1622. St Dennis was well- known for his healing powers and compassion. In 1703 he was declared a Saint. 

It is worth knowing that the monastery has recently been renovated uncovering 15th Century frescoes.

Lunch stop will be in one of the traditional mountain villages. We will have a shopping stop to sample and purchase various local produce. 

The bus will now cross over to the North East and head to the stunning photo stop in Katastari overlooking Alykes and beyond.

Finally you will be able to take in great views overlooking Zakynthos town from Bochali where the remains of the old Venetian castle lie. Bochali is a popular spot for the locals especially on an evening where they can relax and meet up with friends.

Things to remember

- Sensible footwear, sensible clothing for church & monastery stops.

- Camera, sunscreen, swim wear & towels, mineral water.

Not Included:

- Boat ticket (caves) – 6 euros per adult and 3 euros per child

- Lunch and refreshments.