Family Adventure in Zakynthos: Sun, Sea, and Culture

A Day Above Zakynthos

Today was all about seeing Zakynthos from a different perspective – literally! We traded the sandy beaches for hilltop vistas and historical explorations, and it was a refreshing change of pace. It’s amazing how a shift in scenery can rejuvenate the soul, and today, Zakynthos offered us just that.

Our day began, as most do on vacation, with a hearty breakfast. We headed to Nostimon Imar, a charming spot in Zakynthos Town. The kids were thrilled with the vegan mezze options, while Fatima and I enjoyed some traditional Greek fare. It's always a win when everyone finds something they love! Fuelled up, we set off for our first destination: Bohali.

Panoramic View of Bohali

The drive up to Bohali was an adventure in itself. The narrow, winding roads offered glimpses of the town below, each turn revealing a new postcard-worthy scene. When we arrived at the Panoramic View of Bohali, I was immediately struck by the stunning vista. The entire town of Zakynthos sprawled beneath us, a tapestry of terracotta roofs and whitewashed buildings, framed by the azure Ionian Sea.
Omar was fascinated by the Venetian Castle perched atop the hill. We explored the ruins, imagining what life must have been like centuries ago when the castle was a bustling fortress. Fatima, ever the history enthusiast, shared stories of the island's past, bringing the ancient stones to life.
We spent a good hour simply soaking in the view. The air was fresh and clean, carrying the scent of pine and wildflowers. I took dozens of photos, trying to capture the magic of the moment, knowing full well that no image could truly do it justice. There were some quaint cafes around, but we decided to keep moving to the next destination.

Sometimes, the best way to understand a place is to see it from above, to gain a broader perspective on its beauty and history.

Experience breathtaking panoramic views of Zakynthos Town and the Ionian Sea from the historic village of Bochali.

A Moment at Dot

Before lunch, Fatima wanted to do some shopping, so we stopped by Dot, a boutique in Zakynthos Town. Fatima and Omar explored the stylish offerings , while I enjoyed a strong Greek coffee at a nearby café. It was a perfect opportunity to soak in the local atmosphere and watch the world go by.

Explore the chic and stylish offerings at Dot Boutique in Zakinthos, where elegance meets contemporary fashion in a delightful shopping experience.

Lunch with a View at Keri Lighthouse Restaurant

After our brief shopping interlude, it was time for lunch. We drove south to the Keri Lighthouse Restaurant, a place I had read about for its stunning views. The drive itself was beautiful, taking us through quaint villages and past rolling hills dotted with olive groves.
As we approached the lighthouse, the landscape transformed into dramatic cliffs plunging into the turquoise sea. The restaurant was perched right on the edge, offering an unparalleled view of the Myzithres islets. We were lucky enough to snag a table overlooking the water, and the view was simply breathtaking.
We ordered a selection of Zakynthian specialties, including fresh seafood and local vegetables. The food was delicious, but honestly, the view was the main course. Omar was mesmerized by the sheer drop to the sea below, while Fatima and I simply savored the moment, feeling grateful for the opportunity to experience such beauty together.


Discover the exquisite flavors and stunning views at Keri Lighthouse Restaurant in Greece - where every meal is a celebration of Mediterranean cuisine.

Stranis Hill: Where Poetry Meets History

With our bellies full and our spirits high, we set off for our final destination of the day: Stranis Hill. This historical site is known as the place where Dionysios Solomos, the national poet of Greece, wrote the Hymn to Liberty, which later became the Greek National Anthem.
The hill itself was peaceful and serene, a world away from the bustling town below. We walked through the olive groves, the air filled with the sound of cicadas and the gentle rustling of leaves. We found the monument dedicated to Solomos, a simple bust atop a column. I tried to imagine the poet sitting there, inspired by the landscape and the struggles of his people, penning the words that would become a symbol of Greek freedom.
Omar, who has been learning about Greek history in school, was particularly interested in the story of Solomos. It was a great opportunity to connect him with his heritage and instill in him a sense of pride in his roots.
As the sun began to set, we sat on a bench overlooking the valley, watching the sky ablaze with color. It was a perfect end to a day of exploration, a moment of quiet reflection on the beauty and history of this incredible island.

Visit Stranis Hill in Zakynthos, the inspiring location where Dionysios Solomos wrote Greece's national anthem, offering stunning panoramic views.

Dinner at Taverna Alivizos-Asteria

For dinner, we chose Taverna Alivizos-Asteria, enticed by its reputation for authentic Zakynthian cuisine. The taverna was cozy and inviting, with a warm, family-friendly atmosphere. We feasted on fresh seafood, traditional Greek salads, and local wine. The food was delicious and comforting, the perfect way to end a long day of sightseeing.
As we savored our meal, we talked about our favorite moments of the day. Omar loved the Venetian Castle, while Fatima was captivated by the views from Keri Lighthouse. For me, it was the peacefulness of Stranis Hill and the connection to Greek history that resonated most deeply.
Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Anafonitria Monastery and the Old Lagadakia Village. I am looking forward to discovering more hidden gems and immersing ourselves in the local culture. And maybe, just maybe, we will find another breathtaking view to add to our collection.
It's moments like these, sharing experiences with my family, that make travel so rewarding. Zakynthos has a way of weaving its magic, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Experience authentic Greek cuisine at Taverna Alivizos-Asteria in Zakinthos - a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts.