Lush vegetation, rocky cliffs and green water make up the charm of the Ionian Islands. Quite different from Mykonos, tranquility and closeness to nature prevail here. Pine forests, vineyards, monasteries, snow-white beaches and a Venetian feel make the seven islands along the west coast of Greece special - stretching from Albania to south of the Peloponnese.

Best nature experience

A real crowd pleaser and a popular photo motif are the Blue Grottoes on Zakynthos. The caves, where there are breathtaking light reflections to marvel at, are best visited on local fishing boats - larger tour boats from tour operators often don't manage to navigate the caves through the stone arches. Snorkelers love swimming through the blue and diving in the clear water. Some of the caves can only be explored with scuba gear. Departures are typically from Makris Gialos, from the port of Agios Nikolaos and from Cape Skinari. Tip: go there in the afternoon, when the first tourists are already on their way home!

Best beaches

With its pure white sandy beach and secluded location, Smuggler's Bay on Zakynthos, also called Navagio, is one of the most photographed beaches in Greece. An old shipwreck on the beach makes the hearts of small and big children beat faster. The bay is perfect for swimming a lap in the bright turquoise waters. It is a popular stopover on route to the Blue Grottoes. You can also reach the cove on foot, but then you can only admire it from above.

Best hike

Sports enthusiasts climb the highest peak on Zakynthos, Vrachionas. This easy hike takes only one hour and can also be done with children. On clear days, you not only have a great view from here, you can also see the neighboring island of Kefalonia and enjoy a far-reaching panorama. You can also admire the steep cliffs of the west coast. A small highlight are also the buildings from the 15th century in Loucha, which even withstood the severe earthquake in 1953.

History

Even Empress Sisi knew that salty sea air and the beautiful surroundings on the Greek islands are good for you. That's why she had the Achilleion, a monumental palace, built on the island of Corfu in 1890. Dedicated to the Greek god Achilleus, the palace was a veritable treasure trove of Greek treasures. Sisi spent many summers there alone, recuperating. Nowadays the palace is a museum where you can follow in the footsteps of the Austrian empress.
Admission from € 6,-. achillion-corfu.gr

Best Island Hopping

The Ionian Islands should definitely be explored by sailboat - island tours let you discover breathtaking natural jewels! Perfect starting point: the port of Lefkas. sunsail.com

Best of Hotels

Marbella Nido Suite Hotel & Villas

Enjoy an undisturbed holiday and indulge in luxury - that's what guests can do at the "Marbella Nido Suite Hotel & Villas". The adults-only hotel offers spacious suites, which are equipped with their own veranda, pool or whirlpool. From there, guests enjoy wonderful views over the sea, located a little below the hotel. Cross the road below and you're immediately on the sandy beach with loungers reserved for guests. Three restaurants, including a gourmet à la carte restaurant, a bar and a lounge promise not only culinary delights but also the finest drinks. The sommelier offers regular wine tastings. The spa has it all and comes up with numerous relaxing treatments and Cinq Mondes products. Double room including half board from € 183,- per night.

marbella.gr
Ag. Ioannis Peristeron, 49084 Corfu, Greece
T: +30 26610 71183

Olea All Suite Hotel

The "Olea All Suite Hotel", a real gem, is waiting ten minutes away from Zakynthos' capital. As the name suggests, the hotel only offers suites. The 93 suites boast sea or land views and some have their own pool. The interior is decorated in natural colours and materials such as wood and stone, which complete the elegant ambience. The Royal Spa marks the resort's haven of tranquillity. Here, the staff caringly attend to the guests' wishes. Babor's high-quality products are used for the treatments. The gym also scosre with a panoramic view. Three restaurants, from à la carte to buffet, cover a wide range of tastes. At the end of the evening, you can make yourself comfortable in one of the three bars and stick your toes in the sand ... Double room including breakfast from € 202,- per night.

oleaallsuitehotel.com
Tsilivi, 29100 Zakynthos, Greece
T: +30 26950 22265

Domes Miramare

White marble, natural materials and lovingly tended gardens the "Miramare" playfully combines pure luxury with naturalness. Famous names such as Jackie and Aristotle Onassis have already enjoyed the hospitality and excellent service of the hotel. The adults-only oasis is convincing all along the line. The suites and villas radiate a quiet elegance and are equipped with all amenities. In the famous "Blu Bar", Greek chic of marble slabs, silver and radiant blue prevails. The culinary highlight is "Makris Restaurant" and the accompanying "Makris Degustation Restaurant". Here guests can taste their way through excellent champagnes while enjoying superb cuisine. In addition to local wines and beers, top international drinks are of course also served to meet every demand. Double room including breakfast from € 438,- per night.

domesresorts.com
Miramare Beach, Moraitika, 49100 Corfu, Greece
T: +30 2661 440500

Hotel Electra Kefalonia & Spa

Directly on the southwestern coast of Kefalonia and only a few minutes away from the airport and the capital, a true wellness oasis awaits those seeking peace and quiet. Inside the spa temple, a heated indoor pool, jacuzzi, sauna, steam bath and other amenities await. Typical Greek scents such as citrus and lavender caress the nose during the treatments, which rely heavily on the healing power of regional plants. In the morning, you can work up a sweat in the gym and then take a dip in the outdoor pool. From the pool, you can look out over the Greek sea and relax in one of the comfortable sun loungers. The restaurant serves Greek specialties as well as international classics. The elegant rooms offer a perfect panoramic view over the sea and the suites have private pools where you can relax undisturbed. Double room including breakfast from € 184,- per night.

electrahotels.gr
Ammes, Svoronata, 28100 Kefalonia, Greece
T: +30 2103 370006