Sugglers Cove - Zante

The Smugglers Cove in Zante, also called Navagio bay, or Shipwreck cove lives up to its romantic name. Probably the most famous beach in Greece, the beach is only accessed by boat, and well worth the trip. About 20 years ago, contraband cigarettes was wrecked and washed on the shore that gave the beach its present name.

Smugglers Cove is topped with lush green vegetation that contrasts dramatically with the white limestone cliffs that border a deep beach that contain the remnants of the shipwreck that looks as though it is of a bygone era. The beach is curious because of its various sections, each one unique due to various stages of erosion perfectly carved and harmonized by the hand of nature. The more fierce sea currents coming from the inner depths of the western seas have created the magnificent limestone cliffs and white beaches by eating the soft stone away slowly over centuries.

The limestone beach has strips of fine white sand, shingles and pebbles of different sizes from miniscule ones to larger, round ones making it a very interesting sight. The dirt track that goes from the west of the beach gives a breathtaking view of the beach, and is one of the most spectacular pictures of all Greece. The track is only accessible on foot or if the tourist has hired a 4 X 4 vehicle, and the view of the beach from above as the turquoise blue waters of the sea merges with the pure white beach, can indeed be a unforgettable view. This track however does not go down to the beach: only boats can take one there.

The spotless beach is very clean with all rubbish washed up by the sea removed immediately. Those tourists planning to lounge in the sun are advised to bring all necessities with them as there are not many facilities in this secluded bay, cut of from the rest of the island by the cliffs and accessible by boat. A sun umbrella is a must, as the heat radiates off the white cliffs and there is no shade on the beach to get away from it, especially in the midday.

There is a café that serves drinks and food, and a few loungers and umbrellas, but it is advisable not to depend on it. The nearest resort is Alikes, and there are conveniently frequent boat trips. The resorts offer great food, complete with deliciously fresh seafood that can be a truly rewarding to the palate. With the elements of adventure, romance and exploration a trip to the Smugglers Cove in Zante is a must see, for the honeymooner, the family vacationer and casual traveler alike on a Zante holiday.