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Visiting Zante

Visiting Zante

By Sean Mahon

Olympia
 
Whilst Zakynthos has so much to offer, there are thousands of notable landmarks across Greece that you won’t want to miss out on.  Deep in the ‘Valley of Gods’ in the western Peloponnese lies the most celebrated site of ancient Greece – the birthplace of the greatest athletic sporting event of all time.   Take an exclusive tour around one of the most well-known tourist destinations in Greece, and visit the ruins where mighty athletes once competed for honour so long ago. 
 
After a short ferry ride from Zakynthos you will be able to explore the intriguing archaeological sites in small groups.  Visit the awe inspiring stadium, the Temple of Hera and the sacred site where the Olympic Flame is lit every four years in a highly symbolic and traditional ceremony.   Visit the museum to see an abundance of wondrous artefacts that have been carefully unearthed over the centuries, or take in the beauty of some unbelievable sculptures, such as Hermes of Praxiteles, Nike of Paionios and the decoration of the temple of Zeus, once one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. 
 
In contrasting the crumbling splendour of ancient Olympia, the modern village offers visitors a chance to break up their tour browsing the shops and enjoying refreshments.   Pause to enjoy the final view of the ancient castle which stands proudly about the port before making your way back to Zakynthos. 
 
 
Walking Tours
 
The island of Zakynthos is often called the jewel of the Ionian Islands.  It covers 405 square kilometres of incredibly diverse landscapes, with flourishing flora and fauna and thousands of historic landmarks all waiting to be discovered.  Away from the built up coastal regions, the beauty of the island remain relatively unspoilt and vineyards, olive groves and orchards fill the air with fragrant aromas.  And with Nefis Travel’s walking tours, you can uncover some of this natural splendour for yourself. 
 
Nefis Travel offers a variety of walks for all levels of experience and fitness, usually lasting between three and six hours.  Visit authentic villages and stop at the local tavern for coffee and delicious mezedes (a traditional Zakynthian snack), embrace the peaceful atmosphere of the monasteries and admire the exquisite architecture of the ancient churches and temples, and enjoy the magnificent panoramic views from Mount Vrachionas, the highest point on the island. 
 
From April to September the island is at its most luscious; the winding country paths plough through fields of colourful wild flowers, whilst the balmy climate is ideal for enjoying the great outdoors.  Your guides will bring the walks to life, sharing with you the hidden natural treasures of the landscape, the history of Zakynthos and interesting knowledge about the local herbs and flowers. 

‘Once Upon a Time’ Greek Theatre Tour
 
Join Nefis Travel for an evening of cultural delights; take your seat in the magical Avouris Theatre and prepare to explore the rich history of Zakynthos .The charming little hand built theatre (constructed from pebbles and stones collected from the nearby beaches) and the beautiful surrounding gardens are guaranteed to give visitors the feeling of having travelled back in time to ancient Greece for a night of traditional entertainment.
 
The theatre was an integral part of life for the ancient Greeks; whilst they used theatre as a means to honour the gods, they went on to develop the concepts of tragedy, comedy and satire, creating the very basis for live entertainment as we know it today.  At the Avouris Theatre, revel in a selection of traditional Greek plays, amusing stories and fairy tales from Greek mythology.
 
During the course of the evening guests can enjoy some tasty refreshments and local dishes, before rounding off the evening with a stroll in the beautiful gardens – gather around the campfire and join in with the music with gusto.  The ‘Once Upon a Time’ Greek theatre tour is a unique and educational experience for all ages, and you will leave the Avouris having experienced a real fairy tale evening with a distinct cultural twist.  The magic of the night is sure to stay with you forever. 

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