Attractions and Places To See around Εθνικό Θαλάσσιο Πάρκο Ζακύνθου - Top 20

The Monastery of Panagia Skopiotissa (often simply called Monastery Skopos) is located on the summit of Mount Skopós at an altitude of about 496 meters. Originally, the monastery was built in 1446 on the ruins of an ancient temple dedicated to the goddesses Artemis and Apollo. Fragments of the ancient temple were used in the construction of the entrance gate and inside the church. After damage from earthquakes, it was rebuilt in the Byzantine style in 1638. It is known for being the only domed church on Zakynthos. Due to its location, the complex also served as a watchtower for the city of Zakynthos and large parts of the island.

Gerakas Beach is considered one of the most beautiful and natural beaches in the region. It is located at the southernmost tip of the Vasilikos peninsula and is particularly known for its role as an important nesting area for the endangered loggerhead sea turtle (Caretta caretta). The beach is part of the National Marine Park of Zakynthos. To protect the turtle nests, access is time-limited (usually from 7:00 AM to sunset). You will find fine golden sand and crystal-clear, very shallow water here, making the beach ideal for families with children. The impressive clay cliffs in the background are also characteristic. Turtle Information Center: Near the parking lot is the Zakynthos Sea Turtle Rescue & Information Center.

The Myzithres rocks (also called Mizithres) are two imposing, chalk-white limestone cliffs that rise out of the sea near the village of Keri. The rocks owe their name to the local Greek cheese „Myzithra", as their shape and white color are reminiscent of it. Before an earthquake in 2018, both rocks were completely separated from the land as small islands. Since then, they have been partially connected to the coast by fallen rock masses, creating a narrow beach. They are located directly below the Keri Lighthouse (Faros Keriou). From there, one of the island's most famous panoramic views is offered.

Since 1534, the monastery has been owned by the noble Logothetis family, whose descendants still look after the site today. Inside, you can see valuable wall paintings (frescoes) from the late 17th century, as well as a marble iconostasis in the Baroque style. The double-headed eagle, the symbol of the Orthodox Church and the Byzantine Empire, is engraved on the floor. A small path leads behind the monastery to an even higher rocky peak with ropes for support, offering one of the best views on the island. Shortly before the summit, there is the "Kantina Skopos", a small café offering refreshments. The owner also has the key to the church.

The monastery of Panagia Skopiotissa is the oldest church on the island. It is located on the summit of Mount Skopos (492 m) near Argassi and offers an impressive 360-degree panoramic view of the entire island. The monastery was built in the 15th century (around 1400 AD) in the Byzantine style on the ruins of an ancient temple of the hunting goddess Artemis. Marble parts from the ancient temple were used for the construction, which can still be seen today at the entrance gate and inside. The current whitewashed cross-domed church dates from 1624.

The ruin of the Byzantine Church of Saint Nicholas Megalomatis (also called Agios Nikolaos Megalomatis) is considered one of the most important ecclesiastical monuments on the island, as it is one of the few churches dating from the Middle Byzantine period (10th to 12th centuries). The ruin is located on the east side of Mount Skopos, southeast of Zakynthos Town. It offers a wide panoramic view of the coast and as far as the mainland. Originally, it was a cross-domed church with a narthex and three apses on the east side. It was part of a larger monastic complex, built in the 18th century, which also lies in ruins today.

The wooden bridge to Cameo Island connects the port of Agios Sostis with the small, private island of Cameo, also known as the "Wedding Island". The bridge is located in the bay of Laganas, about an 8-10 minute walk along the beach from Laganas or directly at the port of Agios Sostis. Crossing the bridge is often free, but there is usually a fee of approx. €5 to enter the island. The price often includes a personalized souvenir, such as a photo keychain. The island is famous for its photogenic backdrop with white cloths blowing in the wind over a small beach. It is also a popular place for weddings. Visitors can swim, snorkel (water shoes recommended due to the stones), or enjoy the view from the bar. With a bit of luck, loggerhead sea turtles can be spotted in the surrounding waters.

Beautiful panorama over the rocks.