Xigia Beach Zakynthos

For many, Xigia beach is one of the most beautiful and special in Zakynthos. It is located in the wildest part of the island heading north about 6 kilometers from the picturesque Alykes village.

It is wedged in a hollow on the rocky coast surrounded by steep white cliffs dotted with lush Mediterranean scrub which together with the turquoise color of the waters give it an almost tropical touch.

The coast is made of small white pebbles and the sea has a particular shade of blue thanks to the high concentration of sulfur that comes from a natural sulfur spring of fresh water inside a cave that opens onto the vertical cliff twenty meters from the beach. Reaching the entrance to the cave is not really that easy due to the water which has a very low temperature, therefore cold and the strong concentration of sulfur which makes the water cloudy with little visibility. However, the presence of non-metal gives healing and therapeutic effects, a true free spa session, beneficial for those with muscle pain, arthritis and skin complications. The only drawback is perhaps the strong smell in the air, but you get used to it in a short time. A tip, do not immediately remove the sulfur from the skin, a real panacea for the epidermis and also remember not to show off your best costume, remove the jewelry as the mineral deteriorates the fabrics and oxidizes the metals.

Given the conformation of its depths that descend quickly and therefore not very suitable for children and mainly rocky, they are perfect for snorkelers who can have fun discovering a varied fish fauna and flora. Don't forget to bring flippers and a mask to explore the depths of the sea.

Note that there are two beaches with the same name. Coming from the south you will find the first less known one where at the end of the dirt road that reaches it there is a parking lot. From here two paths start, the first passes right in front of the only tavern present and through a staircase you arrive at the more known Xigia beach, the other instead more' steep and demanding, arrives at the second larger in both length and width but definitely much less crowded and popular.

The beach is equipped with a few umbrellas and deck chairs, given its size there are not many places so it is better to arrive early to be able to enjoy the comforts. The only refreshment point is the tavern before the stairs that descend towards the bay where you can taste dishes of the classic local and Greek cuisine with a wonderful view over the whole district. However, it would be better to avoid going back and forth, especially bring something to drink if your intention is to spend the whole day there.

Simple, heading north east towards Alykes and follow the road signs. It is necessary to have your own vehicle to reach Xigia as there are no public buses that reach the beach.

To end the day with a flourish, you can continue for about ten kilometers always towards the northern part on the east coast passing through the Zante countryside that slowly descends towards the sea and then goes up again, reaching Cape Skinari where on particularly clear days you can can see the beautiful Kefalonia island right in front.

To put among the things to do in Zakynthos, you can take a nice wellness bath and see places that will remain forever in the luggage of memories during your holiday in Zakynthos.