The most southern of the Ionian chain, Zakynthos, also called Zante, shares the history of invasion, freedom from Ottoman rule and devastation by earthquakes. Much of the island is still green, untouched. The north and west is mountainous, the centre very fertile, with farms, vineyards and lovely old villages set in beautiful countryside where life is more or less untouched by tourism. Photo by: Tr8la

Zakynthos Town was rebuilt on the old plan, an attempt to recreate the atmosphere of the pre-earthquake ‘Flower of the Levant’. It is handsome place, with arcaded streets, grand public buildings, museum and busy working port. Round the island boat trips to sea caves and beaches start there. Photo by: mcdermgl

On the east coast, the resorts close to Zakynthos Town are overcrowded. However the Vassilikos Peninsula to the south still has small resorts and beaches, and traveling northwards the parade of fishing villages and beach resorts become less developed. The north coast is rocky and inaccessible, with dizzying views. There are one or two spots along the wild and remote west coast where the sea can be reached. Photo by: Skinnyde

When to go: May, June, September and October. Population: 38,600. How to get there: Direct charter and domestic flights. Ferry from the mainland inter-island ferries. Photo by: Adamos Maximus