Walking holiday Zakynthos: discover the island truly on foot
- Experience Hikes
- 1 day ago
- 4 min read
Zakynthos is known for its sun-drenched beaches, azure sea, and the famous Caretta Caretta turtles. Those who choose a walking holiday on Zakynthos will discover a completely different side of the island—a side you'd simply miss in a rental car.
During a walking holiday, you'll go beyond the highlights in the guidebook. You'll meet locals, learn about age-old traditions, sample authentic island cuisine, and experience nature up close. In this blog post, you'll discover why Zakynthos is ideally suited for exploring on foot—and why this is the most authentic way to experience the island.
Table of contents
Why choose a walking holiday in Zakynthos?
Renting a car in Zakynthos is easy. But easy isn't always better.
If you really want to get to know the island, do it on foot.
During a walking holiday Zakynthos, you:
Experience the island at a more leisurely pace
Visit places where buses and rental cars don't operate
Easily connect with locals
Discover the interplay of nature, culture, and gastronomy
Walking brings you closer to the soul of the island, both literally and figuratively.
Zakynthos off the beaten track
Most visitors stay on the coast. Understandably, because the beaches are beautiful.
But the interior of Zakynthos is just as impressive. Think of:
old donkey trails through the hills
quiet mountain villages where time seems to stand still
hidden chapels and monasteries
viewpoints with panoramic views of the sea and valleys
On foot, you'll see how the island lives—far from mass tourism.
Zakynthos' nature: flora, fauna, and seasons
Zakynthos is surprisingly green. Thanks to the rain during the winter months, the island explodes with scent and color in spring.
Spring and summer
Wildflowers along the paths
Flowering herbs and aromatic plants
Plenty of birds and insects
Autumn
Grapes on the vines
Olives on the trees
Pomegranates, figs, and citrus fruits
On a walking holiday to Zakynthos, you’ll not only learn about what grows there, but also what the locals use these plants for—from cooking to medicinal uses.
On the road with a local guide
The difference between "walking" and truly experiencing it? A local guide.
A guide:
knows hidden paths and stories
points out plants and trees you might otherwise miss
tells you how traditions are still practiced today
brings you into contact with locals
You might visit, for example:
a small-scale olive press
a local cheese factory
a traditional perfumery
This way, walking becomes a complete experience.
Culture, religion, and history along the way
Zakynthos has a rich religious and cultural history that is deeply intertwined with daily life.
During the walks:
You'll visit ancient monasteries in the mountains
You'll meet the nuns who still live here
You'll discover icons and colorful frescoes in churches
You'll learn how faith shapes the rhythm of the island
These encounters give context to what you see—and often create the most memorable moments of the trip.
A taste of Zakynthos: from tavernas to cooking workshops
Walking makes you hungry—and that's a good thing. Zakynthos' cuisine is pure, local, and seasonal.
During a walking holiday:
Have lunch in village taverns
Take a taste of traditional regional dishes
Join in the cooking class at a Greek cooking workshop
Learn family recipes
Food isn't an afterthought here, but an essential part of the culture.
Practical benefits of a walking holiday
Besides the experience, a walking holiday in Zakynthos also offers practical advantages:
No stress from traffic or parking
A sustainable way to travel
Suitable for active travelers aged 40+, 50+, and 60+
A varied program with rest periods
Everything is organized, but with room for freedom
All you have to do is put on your walking shoes.
Who is a walking holiday in Zakynthos suitable for?
This type of travel is ideal for:
Travelers who want more than just sun and sand
Nature lovers
Culture enthusiasts
People who enjoy being active
Couples or solo travelers seeking deeper exploration
You don't have to be a top athlete—just be curious.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Is a walking holiday on Zakynthos strenuous?
No. The routes are varied and geared towards an average fitness level, with plenty of rest periods.
What's the best time for a walking holiday on Zakynthos?
Spring and autumn are ideal because of the mild climate and thriving nature.
Do you walk every day?
Usually 4–5 walking days a week, interspersed with cultural visits and free time.
Is guidance included?
Yes, you'll walk with an experienced local guide who speaks Dutch or English.
Can I participate alone?
Absolutely. Many participants travel solo and experience a strong sense of community.
Conclusion: experience Zakynthos like few do
Want to truly get to know Zakynthos—its people, its nature, its flavors, and the stories behind the landscape? Then a Zakynthos walking holiday is the most complete and authentic way to experience the island. You don't just travel; you immerse yourself in it.
👉 Ready to explore Zakynthos off the beaten track? Check out the current offerings at https://www.experiencehikes.com and experience for yourself just how special a hiking holiday on Zakynthos can be.
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