Scattered along the west coast of mainland Greece the Ionian Islands are lush and green, with vast olive groves, tall cypress trees, imposing mountain landscapes, beautiful beaches and crystal clear blue waters. Each island has a natural beauty and a distinct tradition, cuisine and architecture. * Zakynthos has a varied terrain, with fertile plains in the south-eastern part and mountainous terrain with steep cliffs along the coasts on the west. The mild, Mediterranean climate and the plentiful winter rainfall accounts for the island’s dense vegetation. The Zakynthos / Kypseli area * Zakynthos, also known as Zante, the southernmost and third largest of the Ionian Islands, covers an area of 410 square kilometres (157 square miles) and its coastline is roughly 123 kilometres (76 miles) in length. The island is 40 km long, 20 km wide and its highest point is Vrachionas at 758 metres. According to the 2001 census, the island has a population of 38,957. The capital is the town of Zakynthos. The principal products are olive oil, currants, grapes and citrus fruit. * The island was named Fiore di Levante by its Venetian rulers meaning Flower of the East because of its exceptional beauty. * To the southwest is the National Marine Park of Zakynthos where loggerhead turtles (Caretta caretta) are found in the bay of Laganas. Caretta is an endangered species. Every year beginning in June the female turtles come to the southern beaches in order to bury their eggs in the sand. * The western coast is refuge and breeding ground for another endangered species the Mediterranean monk seal (Monachus monachus). * The locals are renowned for their hospitality which, together with the excellent climate and enchanting beauty of the island, is probably why over 300,000 holidaymakers visit the island each year and return time and time again. Some never leave and the island is home to one of the largest populations of permanent foreign residents in Greece. * Climate Zakynthos is the most southerly of the Ionian Islands and enjoys over 300 days of sun (over 8.5 hours per day) a year. The summers are hot and dry, often with a cooling breeze. Winters are short and mild with most rainfall between December and February but even during this time there are many days with cloudless skies. * Activities There is something for everybody close by. * Enjoy the varied night life, tour the island, enjoy one of the many cruises around the island, shop or stroll in Zakynthos town, learn to sail, try diving, enjoy the many water sports, go fishing go cycling, go hiking, go horse riding or simply relax on one of the many beautiful beaches. * There are also a number of boat trips available including a superb Catamaran Cruise in the Caretta-Caretta (Loggerhead) turtle habitat of Laganas Bay. Cruise from Zakynthos port to Porto Roma, around Gerakas Cape and towards Pelouzo Island through Laganas Bay to Keri and finally Marathonisi Island. * Take the time to enjoy the island you will never forget the beautiful clear blue waters and stunning scenery. Drosia, Kypseli There are restaurants, tavernas, snack bars, a bakery and supermarket within walking distance. On the sea front less than 50 metres along the beach is Porto Roulis Fish Taverna & Vardiola Restaurant & Snack Bar about 900 metres away and also Andreas Fish Taverna is about 500 metres away from the villa. EOT - Greek Tourist Holiday Rental Licence No: 0428K91000442601