Alykes Holidays 2024/2025
The quaint resort of Alykes, snuggled on the northeast coast of Zante, is less developed than those in the south, so what you’ll find here is a village atmosphere with traditional tavernas and friendly bars. With a long stretch of golden sand and transparent water for the perfect paddle, Alykes is a great location to explore the north side of the island on your Zante holidays.
Alykes Holiday Deals
Take a step back
The unspoilt village of Alykes, while less developed than neighbouring Laganas and Tsilivi, is bursting with charm and is popular with families and couples looking for some down-time from modern life. From the old stone bridge over the Skourtis River to the wildlife-filled salt flats, Alykes has managed to retain its Greek authenticity.
There are plenty of activities on offer – including boat excursions and watersports – and a picturesque beach where you can spend your days lounging in the Mediterranean sun. Everything you need is within walking distance including supermarkets, gift shops and a fantastic array of outdoor dining establishments. The resort enjoys a wonderful selection of traditional tavernas too, where you’ll find freshly prepared, homemade local dishes, and fresh seafood straight out of the ocean. Centred around the church square in Katastari, a 20-minute walk from Alykes, you’ll find street markets selling local produce and freshly cooked souvlaki.
Every July, a three-day festival is organised in the area to celebrate the arts from all over Greece and its European neighbours. Local performances include musical concerts, operas, traditional Greek plays and dance.
Take a boat cruise
The coast of Zante is adorned with coves, caves and secret bays and no cheap holiday to Zante is complete without exploring a few of them. Regular boat tours leave from Alykes to the most popular sights, including Turtle Island, Blue Caves, Shipwreck Beach and the Keri Caves.
Many of the cruises take place on glass-bottomed boats and, once anchored, you’ll be invited to jump into the water and try your hand at snorkelling. The warm, turquoise sea is rich with marine life and visibility is excellent. As Zante is a breeding ground for endangered loggerhead turtles, you can expect one or two of these reptiles to swim past and, if you’re really lucky, you may even spot a dolphin.
Go on a jeep safari
There is no better and easier way to see the hidden parts of the island than on a jeep safari. Head inland and experience rural Zante as you journey through authentic Greek villages and mountain ranges. An experienced guide travels with you to explain the history of the island and its culture, inviting you to look around scenic churches and monasteries – and stopping off to taste local delicacies and meet local craftsmen.
The island itself is quite small and can easily be crossed in a day. From its highest point you’ll enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the whole of Zante.
Relax on golden sand
Enjoying Blue Flag accreditation in recognition of their cleanliness, the long, sweeping beaches of Alykes and Alykanas are divided by a small canal. Both are ideal for families with small children as the warm, transparent water shelves gently into the Ionian sea, making it perfect for paddling and swimming.
Relax and unwind on one of the sunloungers serviced by the beachside tavernas, and enjoy ice-cold beverages and fresh fruit while you soak up the sun. If you fancy some action, take advantage of one of the many watersports on offer. You’ll find everything from pedalos, jet skiing, banana boats and paddleboarding. Alykanas Beach also offers up some great surf. If you’re booking All Inclusive holidays to Zante, it’s possible your package will include watersports activities or use of equipment, so make sure you check and get the most from your stay.
Salt flats
After the second world war, Alykes was chosen by the Greek government for the production of salt – the name Alykes actually means salt flats. Since 1980, when production stopped, the salt flats have remained undisturbed and are now a thriving habitat for local wildlife. Take a walk through the fields and keep a look out for geckos and owls.
Day trip to Kefalonia
If you’d like to experience another Greek island on your package holidays to Zante, neighbouring Kefalonia can be reached by boat in 45 minutes from Alykes port, and makes for a lovely day out.
Local tour-operators offer boat and bus trips which represent good value for money and are a fantastic way to pack in all the major sights. Potter around the Monastery of St. Gerasimos, visit a local wine factory and sample the exquisite produce, explore the magical underground Lake Melissani and relax on the famous Myrtos Beach.