The Island of Dreams
This my friends is my favourite Island. I spend as much of my holiday time that I can there. Depending on my affordability. One or twice a year.
This page will be dedicated to my friends and people whom I have met and spent some time with in ZANTE.
ZAKYNTHOS, ( The Greek Name ) the most southern of the Ionian islands, it owes its name to the son of Dardanos, the king of Troy, who according to myth was the first to set foot on the island. He then built the first Town. Named Zakynthos Town after him. It is also mentioned in "The Iliad". All who came to this island fell under its spell. Others gave it just as names like "earthly paradise", and "Perfumed Isle", while Dionysios Solomos, of modern Greek poetry and originally from the Island, wrote "Zakyinthos could make one forget the Elysian Fields". And in a recent documentary shown in Britain in my belief reflects the truest name of all " THE ISLAND OF DREAMS."
LAGANAS, the largest resort on the Island supports a vast array of different things available to all ages of holiday makers. At Laganas, Vassilikos and Gerakas, the endangered sea turtle "Caretta-Caretta" comes to mate in the early part of the year ( between April and May ) and lays her eggs on the beaches. In September and October the young hatch and have only a short walk to the beach to carry on their lives. It is possible to swim and view these Turtles easily from a few metres into the sea. A totally awesome sight.
This is the main Beach at Laganas ( Taken from Kalamaki ) and stretches for about 6 miles. The centre area is where the Turtles lay their eggs and is protected by a conservation group.
These are the young turtles making their way to the sea from where the mother laid her eggs earlier in the year.
Who builds sandcastles when you can build a sand Turtle?
Click for recreational
beach view.
The mountainous region of the Island is very fertile and has many Grape Vine plantations, Olive Groves and Lemon Orchards. These are the main income of the Islanders out of the holiday season.
Also during the winter season many hand made items are done in readiness for the hoards of tourists that visit the Island every year. Items such as Wool carpets, filigree and lace, table cloths and napkins. Their own Honey and nougat, and of course the local wines.
Some Of My Favourite
Places on the Island
Links to other Greek sites
on the Web:-
Opa's Greek Links
Ellada
(Greece in Greek)
Zante
Net
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