Just Back From Zakynthos
July 20, 2022 by Laura Fishman
Discover the untouched beauty of Greece’s Ionian Islands on Zakynthos, a hidden gem teeming with culture and stunning natural beauty that feels worlds apart from the other more visited islands in the Aegean Sea. Zakynthos is the third largest island in the region and covers over 76 miles of coastline, including secluded beaches and mesmerizing views of Kefalonia Island with the Peloponnese in the distance.
The Venetians, who once ruled the island in the Middle Ages, coined Zakynthos as the “Flower of the East”, as it soon became the crossroads for other nations. Its topography has an Italian-like feel, as it is covered with over two million soaring olive trees, reminiscent of the Tuscan countryside. (A visit to Aristeon is a must to learn how Zakynthoian olive oil is produced.)
One of many draws to Zakynthos is the incredible Navagio Beach (Shipwreck Beach), a stunning natural wonder which attracts visitors from around the world who flock to see this famous cove. The unbelievable clear, turquoise waters are juxtaposed perfectly by soaring white cliffs and lush flora. Travelers can either rent a boat (and consider combining it with a day trip to the sought-out Blue and Kerí Caves) or rent a car and drive along the coast to get a birds-eye view and a great photo-op.
Zakynthos is a perfect destination for travelers looking to combine some relaxing island time with a trip to a European city such as London, Paris, Munich, or Venice. Zakynthos can also be combined with Athens, Kefalonia, or the Peloponnese, making for a very well-rounded Grecian adventure. If you are traveling to any of the Ionian Islands, keep in mind that a connecting flight through Athens (ATH) International Airport is required.
For accommodation, Lesante Blu and Lesante Cape are the top hotels on Zakynthos, both properties being are proud members of Leading Hotels of the World. Lesante Blu is the perfect choice for travelers seeking an adults-only option with traditional five-star resort amenities. This 92-suite boutique hotel offers a luxurious pool with sweeping views of Kefalonia and the Peloponnese, private beach access, a jetty for boat transfers, water sports, a spa, fully equipped fitness center, five restaurants, in-suite dining, and more. In the evenings, guests can enjoy live music at Ostria restaurant, while the picturesque Melia offers breathtaking sea views in a truly romantic setting.
Lesante Cape is the newest property on the island, located in a serene setting that welcomes both adults and families. Designed to look and feel like a traditional Greek village, this luxurious yet intimate resort makes guests feel completely transported to another world from the moment they arrive.
The hotel’s sleek and modern aesthetic draws on white-stone facades with impressive Venetian-inspired archways, direct sea views, and soaring olive trees planted throughout the property.
Next summer, Lesante Cape plans to harvest produce from its own organic garden, in addition to olives and grapes to produce their own olive oil and wine. Guests will get to participate in the harvest and even crush grapes with their feet.
Days at Lesante Cape can be easily spent relaxing languidly at one of the three multi-level pools with incredible sea views dotted with comfortable daybeds and lounge chaises, all for both adults and families to enjoy.
At the charming Kafeneio café, traditional Greek snacks and coffee heated over sand are a must-try, while next door is a quaint shopping area and a folklore museum.
The Armonia Wellness Spa (opening soon) is an oasis of relaxation and tranquility, offering a heated indoor pool, four massage treatment rooms, a sauna, Hammam, indoor heated jacuzzi, and a fully equipped fitness center.
Lesante Cape has 55 suites and 10 villas, ranging from one-two-and three-bedrooms, all with natural wheat growing on the roofs. All rooms offer direct sea views and private heated pools, and terraces with lounge chaises, a dining area, and indoor lounging area.
The villas offer a fully equipped kitchen with an option to reserve a chef for private dinners. The interiors have a neutral palette with sandstone floors, woven baskets and hats, nautical details, and sage green Italian ceramics.
The luxurious bathrooms are all accented with smooth Italian marble, deep soaking tubs, and stand-alone showers.
Dining at Lesante Cape is a feast for the senses, beginning with a delicious breakfasts of freshly baked breads and village pastries enjoyed in the balmy morning air at Elena Restaurant. Savor traditional and contemporary Greek cuisine at the three bespoke restaurants and enjoy refreshing cocktails with incredible sunset views at two lively bars. Don’t miss Novita’s tender grilled octopus, fresh sea bass, burrata, or Greek salad– a love letter to Ionian gastronomy.
Fiore, Lesante Cape’s fine-dining restaurant, is the perfect spot for a romantic evening of candle-lit dining and incredible sea views.
Lesante Cape has a laid-back, relaxed island style and a multitude of cuisine and activity options that make it is a perfect fit for couples, families, or group getaways, and it also offers a stunning backdrop for destination weddings.
Perfectly situated to explore the island from its secluded Grecian beaches and beautiful, unique topography, guests can fully immerse themselves in what makes Zakynthos one of the Greek Isles’ most-loved hidden gems.
Contact:
Lesante Cape & Lesante Blu
Email: info@lesantecape.gr
Website for Lesante Blu: https://www.lesanteblu.gr/
Website for Lesante Cape: https://www.lesantecape.gr/
