Local area
The island
Zakynthos—Homer’s “wooded island”—has a magical character, with its rolling hills, fragrant pine forests, and fields of wild thyme and rosemary. Long, warm summer days soften the landscape in a gentle haze, inviting you to swim, read, sail, or simply unwind and do nothing at all.
Northern Zakynthos, in particular, is rich in olive groves and embodies the relaxed charm of rural Greek life. It’s not unusual to see goats perched improbably in olive trees, adding to the island’s quiet sense of character. Traditional, family-run tavernas with shaded terraces welcome visitors with warm hospitality and serve freshly grilled fish—often caught that very day, perhaps even by the person dining at the next table.
Alongside its rural tranquillity, Zakynthos also has a strong cultural and spiritual heritage. The island’s churches and monasteries, adorned with intricate carvings and gold-embellished icons, are well worth exploring. Zakynthos Town offers a lively contrast, with its museum, shaded colonnades, and the bustling shopping street of Alexandrou Roma. The annual carnival brings the town to life with vibrant medieval-inspired celebrations, including processions and jousting displays. Jewellery, pottery, clothing, and shoe shops line the streets, while the central square is filled with lively bars, tavernas, and cafés.
The Peligoni Club is a family-run beach club in the secluded north of Zakynthos, an island in Greece. It’s a members-only retreat for a fun-loving crowd. Small and personal with a focus on quality over quantity, the club will mould itself around your idea of the perfect Greek island holiday. Open from May Half Term until September every summer.
the peligoni club
🍽️ restaurants & tavernas
There is a wonderful choice of restaurants at this end of the island. Some of our favourites include:
La Storia
📞 +30 26950 31635
A beautiful fish taverna on the beach in Agios Nikolaos, run by the Actipis family.
Mandrakia
📞 +30 6973 450794
Harbour-side, family-run, with excellent service and delicious food.
Micronisi
📞 +30 6973 050680
A stunning seaside setting—perfect for lunch with direct sea access.
El Sueño
📞 +30 6944 941247
Relaxed atmosphere with great pizzas, sea views, and a pool.
Orizontes
📞 +30 26950 31627
A lovely bar and beautiful setting—ideal for dinner.
Ammoudi
📞 +30 26950 62536
Shallow turquoise waters, perfect for families.
Xigia Taverna
📞 +30 6982 148306
Clifftop dining with spectacular coastal views.
Nobelos
📞 +30 26950 31400
Stylish beachfront restaurant and boutique hotel. A premium option.
The Windmill
📞 +30 26950 31555
Family-run, with incredible sunset views.
Ex Animo
📞 +30 6970 408931
Traditional, informal, and very welcoming.
Kaminaki
📞 +30 26950 31304
A peaceful taverna near Volimes—perfect for a more authentic experience.
Pair with local craft shopping (pottery, lace, carpets).
🛍️ supermarkets & shopping
Agios Nikolaos (5 minutes) offers supermarkets, boutiques, bars, and tavernas
Fresh produce, meat, and fish can be ordered from the local supermarket (Actipis family)
Delivery to the villa may be available—please enquire
Pharmacy in Volimes (10 minutes)
Local farms sell honey, olive oil, and wine—well worth trying
🚤 boating
Private boats are available from Micronisi (Nico Stoufis: +30 695 031 566), with or without a skipper.
Highly recommended trip:
Blue Caves
Navagio (Shipwreck) Beach
Crystal-clear water makes this ideal for swimming and snorkelling.
Tip:
Go in the morning—afternoon winds can make conditions rough, especially in the north.
Boats to Turtle Island (Marathonisi) are also available from Laganas (approx. 45 minutes’ drive).
🏄 sup / paddle boards
Available in Alykes (25 minutes away), which also offers sandy beaches and calm waters.
🐢 turtles
Visit Turtle Bay in the south of the island (boats from Keri Beach or Laganas).
A rare chance to see loggerhead turtles in their natural habitat.
Please respect wildlife:
Do not touch turtles and swim calmly if nearby.
⛪ volimes & anafonitria monastery
Explore peaceful monasteries and traditional villages in the hills.
The drive to the Shipwreck Beach viewpoint is spectacular—offering views as impressive as by boat.
Stop along the way for local crafts and produce.
🏖️ beaches
The best sandy beaches are in the south:
Alykes
Alykanas
Laganas
These are more developed and can be busier, but offer easy access and calm swimming.
🌞 final tips
Book restaurants ahead in peak season
Plan boat trips early in the day
Support local producers where possible
Explore beyond the main tourist spots