The dominant feature of the landscape around the long Zakynthos bay of Laganas is Mount Skopos with an altitude of 496 metres (incidentally, the highest peak of the island of Zakynthos is Mount Vrachionas at 758 metres above sea level). Skopos is located at the beginning of the Vasilikos peninsula, close to the popular tourist resorts of Laganas, Kalamaki and Argassi.A hike to the top of the mountain is a popular tip for tourists from this area.

The road to Mount Skopos starts in the resort of Argassi. The most popular and also the most romantic way to get to the top is by foot. Along the way you will gradually get a magnificent view of the nearby and more distant surroundings and you will enjoy your victory at the end of the route all the more. In addition, the trail is lined with many bushes and various herbs, whose scents will accompany you throughout the trip. But to be honest, this is a more challenging hiking trail, which goes uphill, over not very paved terrain in places, and is about 4 km long in total. So some people opt for the motorised transport option - preferably a quad bike or an off-road type of car from the rental company.

At the top of Mount Skopos stands the old monastery of Panagia Skopiotissa (Our Lady of Skopiotissa), or rather its remains. In fact, only part of the whole monastery has survived, namely the beautiful church of Our Lady. The monastery and church originally date from 1446 and were built on the ruins of an old temple dedicated to the gods Apollo and Artemis. Over time, however, the monastery fell into disrepair and was damaged by an earthquake, so it was rebuilt in 1638. Its current appearance dates back to the 17th century and it is said to be the only church with a dome on the island of Zakynthos. A few years ago, the church was renovated and opened to the public.

There is also a small bar just below the top of the mountain, selling refreshing drinks and ice creams. It is recommended to stop here, as the owner of the bar comes up to unlock the church for tourists to see inside. The interior of the church is decorated with beautiful murals, and it would be such a shame not to see the inside as well.

Now just stand back and enjoy the magnificent view from Mount Skopos. The island of Zakynthos is in the palm of your hand - Laganas Bay, Argassi, the capital and the port of Zakynthos. You can also see the Greek mainland (Peloponnese peninsula) and the neighbouring island of Kefalonia.

More touristic destinations of Zakynthos

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.