Zakynthos

Also known by its Italian name Zante, Zakynthos, is an island of two halves. To the south, you will find resorts popular with tourists, but beyond the south is a quieter, more charming side of the island. Leave behind the many holidaymakers and instead discover the forested wilderness and traditional rural villages, rugged west coast of limestone cliffs, and iridescent turquoise waters. The most dramatic sight along the west coast is magnificent Shipwreck Beach; only accessible by boat, the beach is home to a stranded cargo ship that ran aground in the 1960s, as well as magical turquoise waters, white sand, and a dramatic towering cliff backdrop. There are plenty of other lovely beaches, including those where endangered Caretta-caretta sea turtles lay their eggs every spring and summer. Away from the bays, Zakynthos Town offers many hidden gems to explore, such as Saint Mark Square, the Venetian Castle, Solomos Square, and the Post-Byzantine Museum.