Located west of the Greek mainland in the Ionian islands, Zakynthos, also known as Zante, boasts stunning beaches on its south and east coasts, but it’s most famous for the shipwreck that lies in Smugglers Cove along the mountainous north-west coast, with precipitous cliffs rising hundreds of feet from the sea. The scene of the ship’s rusty skeleton on the pristine white sands edged by turquoise waters has become a bucket-list destination, depicted in numerous images across the Internet, in Greek tourism ads, brochures, and postcards.
To get there, you can hop on a flight or take the one-hour ferry ride that departs daily from the seaside town of Killini on the western side of Peloponnese. As the Ionian islands aren’t far apart, there are many others that can easily be visited from here, including Kalonisi, Ithaka, Kefalonia, and Lefkada. If you’re looking for a high-end place to base yourself, the good news is that there are many luxury villas in Zakynthos, some of which even have their own private pools, rented out individually via Airbnb, or as part of a hotel or resort.
Nikolakos Villa - Agios Nikolaos
This stunning villa offers breathtaking views of the sea, yet you’ll be just five minutes from the center of Agios Nikolaos at the north end of the island. It includes two bedrooms, sleeping up to five, on one level with direct access to the gorgeous infinity pool and the endless turquoise waters beyond. The open-plan kitchen includes a Nespresso machine and is well-equipped for preparing meals. You’ll also have a BBQ area with an outdoor dining table for enjoying them with the salty sea breeze. Other notable features include free Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, and fresh fruit upon arrival.
Paradiso Luxury Beach Villas - Ano Gerakari
Less than 12 miles north of the airport, Paradiso Luxury Beach Villas offers some of the best luxury villas in Zakynthos. You’ll be just a two-minute walk from Ammoudi Beach, with access to two private beach areas. The grounds include a deck with loungers for soaking up the sun with a sea view, a garden with BBQs for cookouts, a pier, laundry facilities, and a playground. Massage services are available too. The villas are available in various layouts, with the two-bedroom options sleeping up to five. All come with terraces or balconies with sea views, satellite TV, Wi-Fi, kitchenettes, and air-conditioning.
Porto Zante Villas - Tragaki
If you’re looking for exceptional service with a high level of privacy, and a magnificent private villa, Porto Zante Villas is a high-end hotel that’s sure to fit the bill. Just over seven miles from the airport, it sits on a secluded private beach that overlooks the sea with the posh one- to four-bedroom villas all featuring private pools and whirlpool tubs. Standard amenities also include free Wi-Fi, iMac computers, flat-screen TVs, kitchenettes or kitchens. The most luxurious even have their own private beach areas, tropical gardens and/or additional pools, and fireplaces.
Calypso Villas and Suites - Katastari
Calypso Villas and Suites is a seafront property just four minutes on foot from Ammoudi Beach and a little over 10 miles from the airport. The exquisite Alkyone Villa has three bedrooms and provides awe-inspiring sea and sunset views. It includes two lavish bathrooms, one with a tub, a fully-equipped kitchen, and a spacious living room with a fireplace. Enjoy sea views from inside or out, with large windows, a private yard with lush greenery, and a space for outdoor dining. Massage and airport transportation are available too.
Villa Nina - Keri
Charming Villa Nina lies near Kerion Beach near the island’s southwestern tip, 11 miles from the airport. Ideal for a large family or any group traveling together, it accommodates up to a dozen guests in six bedrooms, some with their own balconies. The outdoor pool on the terrace offers what’s said to be the most spectacular sea and sunset view. It includes a kitchen and both indoor and outdoor dining areas, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, and a DVD player.
Villa Kanalos - Kalamaki
Located near Caretta’s Fun Park Center, less than a 15-minute drive from the airport, this stone-built villa has a fabulous medieval pool and an enticing outdoor living space with views of the ocean and surrounding mountains. It includes a full kitchen and dining area as well as a patio with built-in BBQ, a place for alfresco dining, and an outdoor pool. Nine guests can be accommodated in four bedrooms, while other notable features include a welcome basket, free Wi-Fi throughout, air-conditioning, and a variety of services. Airport transportation, boat trips, car, motorcycle, and bike rentals can all be arranged upon request.
Villa Status - Vougiato
Villa Status, also referred to as Villa Status Grande, sits in the charming village of Vougiato, a place where the old traditions are still followed, and everything is kept at a slow pace. It’s just a 15-minute drive west of the airport surrounded by pristine nature with lots of vineyards and olive groves. The three-level villa can accommodate up to 12 in four bedrooms and it comes complete with a private pool, outdoor dining space, and a large garden area. Enjoy all the comforts of home along with a rooftop and balconies for enjoying the serene views.
Domeneca Villa - Vasilikos
Located in Vasilikos in the southeastern part of the island, Domeneca Villa is a relatively short drive from both the airport and ferries. It’s close to tavernas and beach bars, while St. Nicolas Beach is just a three-minute walk away. Sleeping up to eight in three bedrooms, you’ll have a well-equipped kitchen with a Nespresso machine and dishwasher, a gas BBQ for cookouts, a 46″ Smart TV, and a laundry room. The highlight is the large garden and private pool surrounded by a grassy lawn.
DaLuz Villa - Agios Nikolaos
Only a few steps away from Skinari Lighthouse above the Blue Caves at the northern tip of the island, DaLuz Villa offers six bedrooms and plenty of space for up to a dozen guests. You’ll have a dazzling view of the Ionian Sea and sunsets along with a private pool. It has a fully equipped kitchen, indoor and outdoor dining rooms, and a fireplace. When you aren’t in the mood to cook your own meals, it’s just a three-minute walk from local restaurants.
Arismari Luxury Villas - Vasilikos
Surrounded by unique Mediterranean flora on the oceanfront of Porto Roma about 11 miles southeast of the airport, this stunning villa offers four bedrooms, each one offering a magnificent sea view and an en-suite bathroom. It accommodates up to eight guests and has a full kitchen, living room, and terrace. Relax on the loungers spread around your private infinity pool enjoy the hydro-massage. On-site services include a private chef, a chauffeur, massages, and a concierge.
