The small island of Cameo is located in the southern part of the Greek island of Zakynthos, in the popular tourist bay of Laganas. It is mainly known as the "party island", which can be reached by dry foot thanks to a narrow wooden bridge.
Laganas Bay is a popular holiday destination on Zakynthos, with the most popular tourist resorts of Laganas, Kalamaki and Agios Sostis, as well as the three small islands of Pelouzo, Marathonisi and Cameo (Agios Sostis).
The islet of Cameo is the closest to the mainland of Zakynthos, just opposite the beach of Agios Sostis and the local port of Port Sostis. Beautiful photographs of the iconic Cameo islet adorn just about every promotional material about Zante, including offers from wedding agencies specialising in Greek wedding ceremonies. The island is connected to the mainland by a small wooden bridge, which adds to its uniqueness. Moreover, at night, the island and the bridge are beautifully illuminated.
But it wasn't always an island. In 1633, during a strong earthquake, this part of the coastline was separated from the rest, creating a separate island. The island was named Agios Sostis after the small church that stands on it. The locals, however, call the island something other than Cameo Island, after the bar there.
But the island itself is nothing special, it is more of a "party island" for younger visitors. There are two bars where you can refresh yourself with tasty summer drinks - one at the top of the island, which offers a spectacular view of the surrounding area, and the other down by the small beach overlooking the "turtle island" of Marathonisi. This little beach, Cameo, is on the other side of the island, so you can't see it from the bay, and it's a popular choice for honeymooners for their big day. White veils billow here, and the small pier jutting out into the sea makes for beautiful wedding photographs.
The Cameo is privately owned but open to the public. In the 2018 tourist season, the island charged a €5 entrance fee and included a drink at one of two small bars. However, if there is a wedding taking place, the lower part of the island is closed and only the upper lookout is allowed (weddings happen mainly in the evening). In the 2020 tourist season, visitors received a small personal gift for an entrance fee of 5 Euros and, on selected days, a welcome drink of their choice for an entrance fee of 11 Euros.
Tips for trips on Zakynthos: Zakynthos Capital City, Marathonisi (Turtle Island), Blue Caves, Aristeon Press and Museum, Olympia, Callinico Winery, Water park Zante Water Village (Sarakinado), Shipwreck (Navagio Beach)
Resorts, beaches, sights or trips - clearly listed on the map of Zakynthos.
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