What's the Weather Like in Zante in November
Many tourists may not consider November a ideal time to visit a Greek island but for the intrepid traveler seeking a different and unusual experience, Zante, Greece might be the perfect spot. Enough hotels, apartments, restaurants, taverns, and shops remain open to accommodate visitors and the Mediterranean climate is still mild and pleasant. Even swimming is still possible as the water remains warm.
Temperature and Humidity
Zante, Greece reflects diminishing weather conditions. The thermometer shows temperatures averaging 16ºC (61ºF) and an average high of 19ºC 66ºF) and average low of 12ºC (47ºF), a significantly less than the previous month. The highest recorded November 1st temperature was 25ºC (77ºF) in 2008 and and a low, of 7.7ºC (46ºF) in 1998.
The November dew point, a better measure of comfort per person, increases from the previous month, so the air feels like 13ºC (55ºF) on average with a high of 19ºC (66ºF) and a low of 6ºC (43º) so there is no discomfort from heat and humidity. The average relative humidity is 76% which is still comfortable.
Wind and Rain
The wind is minimal, averaging only about 6 mph but with an occasional gust of 27 mph. The winds increasingly come from north. Rainfall days are 10 with a total of 6 ¼ inches.
Average Sunshine Hours and Sea Temperatures
There are approximately 5 daily sunshine hours and visible daylight jumps to an average of hours. Some days November be slightly to partially cloudy. The November average sea temperatures are starting to cool to 20º C (68ºF), slightly chilly but still decent swimming.
November may be the time to enjoy real Greek living as the island residents with uncrowded beaches and restaurants but with still many of things to do.
Zante Hotels in November
Book the Anna Koralli Studios for beachside self-catering accommodation. The terrace overlooks the bay, with Cameo and Marthonisi islands in the distance. The rooms are beautifully decorated with room for families or friends up to nine people. Each unit has two bedrooms, a television and a well equipped kitchenette with refrigerator and stove. Shops, restaurants, and bars are practically next door.
For accommodation in Zakynthos Town, the Pettas Apartments are hard to beat. Recently-renovated, this is a family-run facility that provides accommodation to an exceedingly high standard. Each apartment is decked out with all the modern conveniences, not to mention large bedrooms and spacious bathrooms. It's the ideal place to stay if you want somewhere that's in close proximity to all the shops and sights.
The Zakynthos Villas are the ideal option for a family holiday, especially if you're looking for somewhere that's a bit more excluded. Tucked up in the hillside of Vasilikos, this rustic accommodation combines classic local architecture with all the modern comforts and affords amazing sea views from the balconies and bespoke pool. Laundry facilities are also available.
Zante Beach for November
Near the village of Agios Leon you'll find the beach Porto Limnionas, which comes as a welcome respite from the mass tourism you'll find elsewhere on the island. Travel down a heather-lined country road before hiking down a path to the beach. There aren't many facilities on the beach itself, but it's a small price to pay for the seclusion and beauty you'll find here.
A short drive from the town of Zakynthos is the small Plaka Beach, which lies at the tip of the Vassilikos Peninsula. This beach is beautiful, but undeveloped, so don't expect a variety of facilities available. The beach is usually crowded in the summer months, but it's usually much quieter during the winter months.
Bars and Restaurants
The Horizon Greek International Restaurant in Laganas specialises in Greek, Italian and Mediterranean dining. Try the gyros club sandwich, a rack of barbecue ribs, the lamb or chicken Klefiko, which is flamed at your table. Leave room for the chocolate crepes and enjoy the frozen cocktails. This is a family-run business which has a rooftop garden overlooking the beach.
The CheekyTikis Bar on the strip in Laganas, is a whacky, British owned Tiki Bar with a Hawaiian theme. A great place to stop for an afternoon or evening drink, this is a family-friendly establishment thanks to the activities they put on for children.
Another Laganas establishment worth trying is Cool Peppers. Situated directly on the beachfront, this restaurant-bar brings together friendly service, delicious dishes and reasonable prices. The cocktails here come recommended and there's a good wine list paired to the food.
Just 30 yards opposite the St. Dennis church in Argassi is The Peppermint, which is open only on weekends during the winter months. It specialises in the local tastes of Zante, with vegetables sourced from their own garden. Try the mussels, prawns in white wine sauce, honey sesame chicken, pork in cream sauce, and the meatballs. There's also a children's menu and play area for younger diners to let off steam.
Things to do in Zante in November
For a family friendly destination on rainy days, visit Bowl'm Over , situated near the main strip in Tsilivi. Offering mini golf, pool tables, air hockey and table football, it makes an ideal place to spend rainy days. The prices are reasonable and it's located near all the local restaurants and cafes.
If you want to learn about the island's past, visit the Jewish Cemetery near Bohali, which honours the Jewish islanders who were saved by two local men during World War 2 when the country fell under Nazi occupation. When asked for a list of names, the island official Loukas Karrer and Bishop Chrysostomos refused, supplying their own instead.
During the confusion, the Jewish islanders were hidden in remote villages until the German army withdrew from the island in October 1944. A plaque at 44 Tertseti Street commemorates the heroism of these two men. In 1948, in recognition of the heroism of the Zakynthians during the Holocaust, the Jewish community donated a stained glass window to the Church of Saint Dionyssios.
The Monastery of Panagia Skopiotissa, located near Argassi, will take you back to another period in time. Whether or not you're religious, you'll nonetheless be inspired by the beautiful frescoes and elaborate decorations of this humbling and historic building.
