The trip in short
Zakynthos has an incredible number of flowers, plants and herbs in all possible scents and colors;
a Mediterranean flora with varied species, depending on the composition of the soil and the difference in altitude.
As soon as spring comes, flowering starts from the coastal areas.
The most common flowers are bougainvilleas, cyclamen, irises, wild orchids and roses.
This trip is all about the beautiful flora, with a special focus on discovering wild orchids along
the hiking trails.
See also this blog post with a video impression of the last Spring tour
Day to day program
1
Arrival
Arrival in Zakynthos. We meet our guide who also takes us to our hotel in Alykanas, on the east side of the island. Here we stay the first four nights. The second half of the week we stay in Kalamaki, in the south of the island to also discover that part of Zakynthos.​​​​​
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2
North east
Pick up from the hotel, for a nice walk nearby, around the village Ano Gerakari, located on mountain top.
Above the village is a church that is visible from all around the area.
The view from the church is absolutely amazing - either the main ridge on Zakynthos, the bay of Alikes or endless olive groves. Hike about 5 km.
3
The north mountainous area
We get to know the traditional life on Zakynthos. In addition to tourism, the population of this fertile island lives from the rich yields of agriculture.
We visit an olive press factory and a cheese factory, where we also have lunch. We also visit an old monastery in the mountains. Finally, we go to the sea at Korakonissi. Nature has formed a unique creation there: a rock formation with an enormous arch. It hides a small bay where you can swim.
4
Central mountainous area
Today we walk in the area of ​​Giri, one of the oldest and highest villages on the island. It is located at an altitude of 550 m above sea level, close to the mountain Vrachionas, the highest point of Zakynthos (756 m).
On the way we visit the local Vertzageio museum, which gives an insight into the former rural life. We have lunch in an authentic restaurant in the area. ​​
5
North west area
A hike at the Keri area, ± 7 km. Keri is a charming, authentic mountain village. Part of the houses date from the period before the great earthquake of 1953. The village has been restored in a traditional way.
Afterwards we walk to Marathia to enjoy the view and lunch in local coffee place. Marathia is one of the most beautiful locations of Zakynthos, without mass tourism From Agios Sostis we then sail by boat to Marathonisi (turtle island) and the Keri caves.
6
South east area
A hike at Gerakas (± 6 km), located on the Vassilikos peninsula south of Zakynthos town. A beautiful sandy beach, located in a semicircular bay and surrounded by rock formations. This is one of the beaches where Caretta-Caretta turtles come to lay their eggs.
Afternoon: Lunch in a tavern at Dafni beach, located picturesque in a cypress forest; one of the most beautiful beaches in Zakynthos. It overlooks the Gulf of Turtles and is part of the Marine Park. This is also a nice day to take a swim at one of the beaches.
7
Zakynthos town & sunset hike
A visit to Zakynthos town in the morning. The city is a bustling port town and rebuilt after a wildfire destroyed everything that has been left by the earthquake in 1953. We will visit some historical sights (churches, museum etc.), can shop and walk around. Around noon we meet for lunch.
At the end of the afternoon we start the ‘sunset hike’; a beautiful walk at sunset of about 7 km at Agalas, a beautiful route, partly uphill and with beautiful views.
8
Optional & back home
We can fill this day in our own way in consultation. For example, a nice beach walk to nearby Alykes and take a dip in the sea. Or rent a bike and explore the area around Alikanas; quiet roads through olive groves and vineyards and picturesque villages in this flat part of the island.
Those who fly back home today will be picked up and taken to the airport.
Price of the tour
From € 695,- incl. domestic transport and overnights incl. breakfast in cozy small scale accommodation in Alykanas (4 nights) and Kalamaki (3 nights). This is the price based on a double room. Additional charge for a single room is € 150.
Excl. flights and other meals.
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​Tours on an individual basis starting from 2 people.
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​Tour dates for groups (starting from 4 people) in 2025​:
Wednesday 7-14 May 2025 (with the possibilty to extend).
