Zante Blue Caves

The natural wonders of the blue caves of Zante, or Zakyntos, have to be seen to be believed. The blue caves are actually a series of natural formations to the north of the island, in the cliffs below Cape Skinari. The carving out of the soft limestone due to the rough currents of the ocean is responsible for these incredible formations, which have slowly eroded the stone over the centuries and created the stunning seascape.

The special feature of this island is the beautiful blue colour of the water, which gives the name to it. This is due to the refraction of light, which filters through the tiny sand particles to give the sea its unusual colour. The best time to view the caves is when the seas are calm, and at sunrise or sunset. The refraction of the light within the sea, at the same time reflecting the blue of the sky above, creates a magical atmosphere, the stuff of fairy tales.

It is truly a feast for the eyes, and is worth spending hours with the camera. The diffused sunlight travels through the water, taking its colour and reflecting it in marvelous shades of turquoise blue- a unique sight not to be viewed anywhere else in the world. Visitors can travel through the arches, and enjoy the inimitable opportunity to dive or snorkel. Nature has indeed lavished its time to lovingly fashion these wonderful unique sculptures!

These caves were discovered in 1897 and have been the popular destination of tourists ever since. The blue caves are approachable only by boat, and there are numerous excursions, which can take the traveler there. The largest cave is called Blue Grotto. The nearest point to the caves to take a boat is the harbor of St. Nikolaos, near Volimes, but trips depart from many other points on the island. The area is also unusually good for snorkeling and scuba diving. Visitors can swim right up to the shipwreck and explore it in the fantastic blue waters which are a deep azure colour when the light is at its brightest. The diving also reveals further wonders of the blue caves, as the effect of the shafts of sunlight filtering through the blue waters into the dark caves, gives an unreal experience, and almost as if one was in a dream.

The biggest of the caves is the Kianoun cave, or the blue Grotto. The port of the town or the port of St. Nicholas in Volimes, are the closest to this fantastic panorama. For the non-divers, sailing through the arches and traversing the peaceful blue waters is an once-in-a-lifetime experience, away from the hustle bustle of the town. It is definitely not a spot to be missed while traveling in this part of the world.