There's a beach on the island of Zante that has been voted one of the most popular beaches in Europe and was given the title of best beach in Europe for tots and toddlers by The Times in 2005. But you won't find any water parks, amusement parks or stalls selling buckets and spades here.

In fact Gerakas beach is so well protected that, apart from the sand, sea and a few pebbles, there's just a portaloo provided by the National Marine Park. There are just a few sunbeds and sunshades and if you want to buy any refreshments you'll need to walk back down the track away from the beach. There used to be a beach bar, some beach traders and even some pedalos, but these have all been removed now. Stand on the beach and look back towards the land and you'll see mainly sand dunes and grasses.

The sea water here is clean and shallow making the beach a superb place for a bit of swimming or for young children to splash around safely at the water's edge. It sounds like an idyllic place but during peak times it can get quite busy, although conservationists are working hard to make sure the area does not get spoiled. Because the beach is a protected area, due to the fact that Caretta Caretta turtles come ashore to lay their eggs in the sand, some parts of the beach may be out of bounds during the season and visitors are sometimes only allowed to stay for a maximum of three hours at a time. If you join one of the conservation parties you may be privileged enough to visit the beach between dusk and dawn and witness the turtles coming ashore.

There is very little development around here although there are a few villas that can be rented in nearby Gerakas Village. There is also a mini market and a family-run taverna there too. Besides the beach, the area is also perfect for walking and even a spot of mountain biking. Olive groves, pine woodlands and a host of flowers at certain times of the year contribute some wonderful fragrances to the spectacular views.(picture Anna Oates )