Zakynthos, also sometimes known by its Italian name, Zante (the island was under centuries-long Venetian rule and was occupied by the Italians during the second world war), is located roughly 300km west of Athens. Famous for its resorts and nightlife in the south, the island holds countless hidden gems the further north you get – including Peligoni itself. Peaceful coves, pretty hilltops, and the daily chorus of fishing boats are the norm, and an ode to the nostalgic spirit of Greek summers.

Probably Zakynthos’ most famous attractions, Shipwreck Beach and the Blue Caves should be on every traveller’s itinerary. The Blue Caves are famous for their beauty, with arches through the white cliffs and waters so bright they take your breath away. The shipwreck on Navagio Beach is all that’s left of a cigarette smuggler’s ship, which ran aground in the 1970s. Framed by white sand and turquoise seas, it’s a sight to behold, either from the water or the cliffs high above. Our recommendation: hire a skipper for the day to explore properly, swimming, snorkelling and enjoying boat life at your own pace.

The pretty village of Volimes (20 minutes from Peligoni) is steeped in history – when an earthquake hit the island back in the ’50s, it was one of the few villages to remain relatively unharmed thanks to its elevated position. First, we’d suggest a visit to Madina’s. For the past 30 years, Madina has been toiling away at her loom, making beautiful rugs of all shapes, colours and sizes that are well deserving of a spot in your suitcase. Set in her own courtyard, the shop also displays some of Madina’s cousin’s pottery, as well as the family’s cheese and olive oil. It’s a very easy – and highly recommended – way to spend those spare euros at the bottom of your bag. 

Take a trip west to explore more of the island’s charms. Exo Chora is a small village half an hour's drive from Peligoni, with a pretty square, and a beautiful, gnarled olive tree that’s rumoured to be the oldest on Zakynthos. Enjoy a cold beer and plates of spanakopita and saganaki in one of the local tavernas. Just past the village, you’ll find Kampi, arguably the best place on the island to watch the sunset. Set up camp in one of the tavernas, perched high on the cliffs, or drive until the road ends and see the sun go down from the beautiful bay. 

The nearby village of Maries is home to Alexandra, a taverna known for its friendly service and terrace with a view, while Porto Vromi, just 10 minutes further on, is a picturesque cove in which to spend unhurried afternoons. Porto Limnionas and Porto Roxa (both 50 minutes from Peligoni) are rocky inlets with some of the best swimming around – the water is crystal clear and there’s a high diving board at Roxa for the most daredevil guests. Both are home to charming tavernas, but we reckon Limnionas just tips it thanks to its balcony above the sparkling sea. When it comes to sundowners with a view, this is hard to beat.

Island life has a way of gently resetting everything, and Zakynthos is no exception. From relaxed days at The Club to unhurried journeys discovering the island’s hidden treasures, there are so many ways to get the most out of this beautiful slice of paradise. And maybe, just maybe, fall in love with it as much as we have.