The most southern and one of the most popular of the Ionian islands, Zakynthos offers all the ingredients for a relaxing holiday. With its green vineyards, fruit orchards and almond groves creating a pastoral chequerboard, its inland appeal is matched only by that of its sandy sunbathing stretches and vibrant nightlife.

Savour the slow pace of island life with a carafe of local wine from the terrace of one of three beautiful villas that we have to rent. Nestled amidst olive trees and offering spectacular sea views, these homes are located to the north of the island, close to the pretty port of Aghios Nikolaos.

Once you have lazed the day away at the island’s safe and sandy shores, self-catering is an easy option with many large supermarkets just to the north of Zakynthos town, new modern supermarkets in Alikes, as well as a choice of smaller mini markets and speciality food shops. You might prefer to stumble across a family-run taverna off the beaten track, where you will enjoy fish straight from the boat and a variety of locally produced wines. There are many such restaurants that offer good, inexpensive dining.

Zakynthos is easily reached by regular charter flights from many UK airports, or a short connecting flight from Athens. A ferry from Killini on the Peloponnese is another alternative, and takes about an hour.