Zakynthos: can you actually trail run there?

“ Where are you going?!? Can you trail run there?” people often say when I tell them I’m going to Zakynthos for a trail running week; as a tour guide and trail runner, people expect me more in Austria.

At first glance, Zakynthos does not exactly seem like a paradise for runners and walkers. Most people know the island for its beaches, party holidays, the famous Shipwreck Bay, and turtles. Not for hiking trails, Instagram or TikTok hypes, and trail races.

It is the same island, but from the trails you see a completely different world than from the beach.

However, together with local runners and our Dutch-Greek partner Michael Travel, we discovered that there is much more to be found on the island than the average tourist ever sees. Over the past few years, we have explored dozens of paths, tested routes, and connected them into a network of beautiful trail routes for trail runners and hikers alike. Since 2024, we have been organizing a trail and hiking week here twice a year, and with every edition, we discover new places.

An island full of surprises

Zakynthos is the southernmost of the large Ionian Islands. With an area of approximately 406 square kilometers, it may not be enormous, but the variety is impressive. From steep limestone cliffs and hidden coves to olive groves, mountain villages, and rugged coastlines.

The island is approximately 40 kilometers long and 20 kilometers wide. The highest point, Vrachionas, lies 758 meters above sea level. Enough elevation difference, then, to really put you to work.

Those who only visit the tourist coastal towns actually miss the most beautiful part of Zakynthos. It is precisely in the interior and along the lesser-known coastal areas that the paths lie that make this island so interesting for us trail runners and hikers.

Running, but with a view of the sea

Our routes run along cliffs, over mountain paths, and through centuries-old olive groves. Sometimes you look out over the beautiful blue Ionian Sea, and a few kilometers later you walk through a virtually deserted (dilapidated) village where time seems to stand still. The routes are designed so that both advanced trail runners and beginner hikers can participate. Do bring good, sturdy hiking boots and/or trail running shoes. The rocky paths require good grip. I personally found the heat on most trails to be quite bearable, and you can cool off in the sea every now and then. It is only on sections to and from the village, where you still have to cover a short distance on the road, that it is sometimes tough, so water, electrolytes, and sunscreen are important items in your backpack.

During the trail and hiking week, we combine daily runs/walks with plenty of time to enjoy everything the island has to offer besides running. So be sure to bring your swimsuit too.

“What I find so wonderful about this week is that it’s not just about exercise. We walk through a landscape that most people on Zakynthos never see. Along the way, there is plenty of time to pause, enjoy the view, and have beautiful conversations. And afterwards? You dive into the sea or sit down for a delicious Greek lunch. That combination makes this week truly special to me.”

– Sylvia, power walking trainer

The boat trip you don't want to miss

One of the highlights of the week is the boat trip. A morning or afternoon of rest for your feet. From the water (yet another perspective!), you can see just how impressive the coast of Zakynthos is. We sail past white cliffs, hidden caves, and beaches inaccessible from the road. Along the way, we visit various bays and caves, and there is an opportunity to swim. You will see many beautiful fish in the clear water. You might even spot a turtle!

My personal highlights of the trail week

The food

After a long trail run, everything tastes better, but Greek cuisine makes it very easy. Every evening you choose a different nice little restaurant, and the food is tasty and varied everywhere. I always find it easier here to eat well, with variety, and tailored to my needs (sports and diet) than in Austria.

Myzithres

The iconic limestone rock formations on the southwest coast are perhaps one of the most beautiful places on the island. The contrast between the white rocks and the clear blue sea seems almost unreal. I find it magical (and the abyss a bit scary, without a fence; definitely a case of: don't tell my mother I walked there ).

Swimming in the caves of Keri

One of those moments when you briefly forget that you actually came for the run. I hadn't expected to dare to do this (I'm not much of an open water swimmer), but I did it anyway. And what a fun experience. I even took photos of it!

The climb to the monastery

During one of the routes, we reach a remote monastery. That alone would be reason enough to pause for a moment and enjoy the view. But then follows an extra exciting bonus climb (with ropes and everything). The reward, in my opinion, is the most beautiful view of the entire week.

The mixed feeling: the turtles

I completely understand that everyone wants to see a turtle. Me too. And we succeeded (the boat captain knows exactly where to find them, of course), even though there were five other boats surrounding it at that moment. That actually felt quite strange; that poor little creature obviously can't just live its life in peace like that.

On the other hand, much is being invested in education and the protection of the animals and their habitats. Fortunately, local organizations and conservationists are actively working to maintain the balance between tourism and nature conservation.

During every trip, we also visit the Turtle Rescue Center. There, we learn more about sea turtles and the work being done to protect them. That, at least for me, gave me more confidence that turtle protection takes precedence over tourism for most people. That this is succeeding is also evident from reports like this one on nu.nl.

But anyway, the question was: Can you trail run on Zakynthos?

The answer is: absolutely. Perhaps not in the way you do in the Alps or on Madeira, but that is precisely what makes it special. You will find surprisingly beautiful trails, impressive views, charming mountain villages, and delicious Greek food. And believe me: once you have walked these paths, you will never look at Zakynthos the same way again.

So, you can take it from me that this is a great place for hiking and trail running (and vacationing). However, there is just one thing you might still have doubts about… Guido’s stories. Should Guido tell you anything during the week about bats in bat caves, mysterious rituals, or sacrificed virgins, take it with a hefty grain of salt. Or Tzatziki.