zakynthos (zante) is one of the ionian islands. it is reachable by air (the flight duration is 50 minutes from the athens international airport) and by sea (ferryboats from kyllini, peloponnese – period of travel less than 2 hours). kyllini is located 80 kilometres south of the port of patra, which links the peloponnese to italy.
due to its diverse underwater environment, zakynthos and, especially, the region “keri” are considered paradises for those who love scuba diving, as they offer the chance to explore caverns and tunnels. furthermore, lovers of marine life are attracted to the island to see the beach of laganas gulf, where sea turtles lay their eggs on the beach. laganas beach is a protected area and belongs to the national marine park of zakynthos.
zakynthos is the birthplace of many intellectuals, among them dionysios solomos, the greek poet who wrote the “hymn to liberty” that became the national anthem. also, the island has a long musical tradition of serenade love songs sung by men, expressing their feelings under the moonlight.
in ancient times, zakynthos was part of odysseus’s kingdom, while during contemporary history the island incurred many years of venetian, french and british domination until 1864 when it was united with greece. the island’s history interweaves with earthquakes, so the building regulations are stringent.
the island’s patron saint, saint dionysios, is considered a remarkable example of forgiveness as, according to tradition, he saved the murder of his beloved brother. his body remains intact and rests in the church of saint dionysios in the capital of the island.
levante is set within six thousand square metres of landscaped grounds on the outskirts of zakynthos town, positioned between the northern coastline and the long sandy beaches of tsilivi and planos. tall palms, clipped hedging and mature trees give the estate a composed, almost park-like atmosphere, while the symmetry of the gardens creates a strong sense of arrival from the moment the gates open.
a stone pathway runs through the centre of the grounds toward the main residence, bordered by carefully shaped planting and shaded seating areas. the house itself follows a restrained classical style, with soft cream façades, arched windows and wide covered terraces overlooking the gardens and pool. although substantial in size, the property feels notably calm and private, enclosed by greenery on all sides.
the outdoor spaces are designed for long days spent entirely outside. at the centre sits a large swimming pool framed by sun loungers, pergolas and open terraces that move gradually between full sun and shade throughout the day. a separate outdoor kitchen and barbecue area sits just beyond the pool, connected to a generous covered dining space where the breeze moves easily through the trees in the evening. the gardens soften the scale of the property, creating smaller corners for reading, resting or sitting quietly away from the main terraces.
inside, the atmosphere becomes lighter and more understated. pale walls, natural timber floors and soft neutral tones reflect the island light throughout the day, while large openings and arched windows bring views of the gardens into almost every room. the main living areas are open yet clearly defined, allowing the house to function comfortably both for larger gatherings and quieter family use.
the kitchen combines practicality with warmth, fitted with extensive wooden cabinetry, stone worktops and a central island designed for everyday use. adjacent dining and sitting areas open directly onto covered terraces, allowing an easy transition between indoor and outdoor living during the summer months.
accommodation is arranged across six bedrooms, each with its own en suite bathroom and many with private balconies or terrace access overlooking the gardens. the bedrooms maintain the same restrained palette found throughout the house, with natural materials and soft light creating a relaxed, uncluttered atmosphere. several bathrooms feature curved windows and stone-toned finishes that subtly reference the island’s traditional architecture without becoming decorative.
the scale of the estate makes it particularly suited to larger families or guests, yet the layout avoids feeling overly formal. wide circulation spaces, shaded verandas and the separation between indoor and outdoor zones give the property an easy rhythm throughout the day.
despite its privacy, levante remains close to the island’s main amenities. zakynthos town is only a short drive away, while the beaches, waterfront cafés and marinas of tsilivi and planos can be reached within minutes. the location balances accessibility with a quieter residential setting, surrounded more by gardens and open space than neighbouring development.
as evening settles across the grounds, the pool lights reflect through the trees and the scent of warm pine and cut grass lingers quietly across the terraces.
