Hotels near Anafonitria Monastery & Volimes Village

Inland from the Navagio viewpoint, the small village of Anafonitria is built around a 15th-century monastery that holds a special place in Zakynthian Orthodox life: this is where Saint Dionysios, patron saint of the island, lived as a monk in the 17th century. The fortified compound retains its medieval defensive tower and a small chapel decorated with post-Byzantine frescoes; the saint's old cell is preserved as a tiny museum behind the main church.

A few kilometres further north, Volimes is famous for handmade textiles - rugs, embroidered tablecloths, local kefalotyri cheese, and thyme honey from the surrounding hills. The drive itself is part of the pleasure: olive groves, dry-stone walls, and views over the western escarpment. Combine both stops with the Navagio viewpoint and the Mizithres terrace at Kampi for a complete west-coast day.

Pro Tip: Anafonitria Monastery requires modest dress - long trousers or skirts and shoulders covered. Wraps are available at the entrance for visitors who turn up in beachwear, but bring your own to skip the queue. The monastery is open 08:00-13:00 and 16:30-19:30; entry is free.