Navagio Beach: Greece’s Secluded Paradise

Vocabulary Table

Word	Definition
Secluded	Hidden away, isolated, or not easily accessible.
Azure	Bright blue, like a clear sky or tropical sea.
Serene	Peaceful, calm, and untroubled.
Invigorating	Refreshing, energizing, and making you feel more alive.
Tranquil	Free from disturbance, very calm.
Lush	Full of healthy, green plants.
Breeze	A light and refreshing wind.
Glistening	Shining with reflected light.

Reading Passage

Hidden on the Greek island of Zakynthos, Navagio Beach is one of the most breathtaking and secluded beaches in the world. Also called Shipwreck Beach, this cove is only accessible by boat, surrounded by towering limestone cliffs that create a natural barrier from the outside world. As visitors approach, the first thing they notice is the azure water—so clear and blue that it almost looks unreal.

The beach itself is covered in soft, white sand that glows under the sun. At the center lies an old shipwreck, rusted by time, adding an air of mystery to this already stunning location. Despite its dramatic appearance, the atmosphere at Navagio Beach is incredibly serene. The only sounds are the gentle lapping of waves and the occasional call of seabirds. The air is filled with the scent of salt and sea breeze, making every breath invigorating.

From above, visitors can admire the beach from a clifftop viewpoint, where the contrast between the golden sand, glistening waters, and rugged cliffs creates a picture-perfect scene. Those lucky enough to swim in these waters describe the experience as tranquil, with the sunlight reflecting off the sea’s surface in a mesmerizing dance of light.

Navagio Beach remains one of Greece’s most famous natural wonders. Although it requires effort to reach, those who visit never forget its unique beauty—a paradise untouched by time.

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Vocabulary Practice

Task: Write a short paragraph (3-4 sentences) using at least two of the vocabulary words in a meaningful way.

Example:
The secluded beach was surrounded by towering cliffs, making it feel like a secret paradise. The azure water was so clear that I could see fish swimming beneath the surface. The gentle breeze carried the scent of salt, making the moment feel truly serene.

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TOEIC-Style Questions

1. What does the word “secluded” most likely mean in the sentence below?
“Navagio Beach is a secluded paradise, only accessible by boat.”

A) Easily accessible
B) Hidden and private
C) Large and crowded
D) Dangerous and rocky

2. Which word best completes the sentence?
_”The ocean at Navagio Beach is a stunning shade of ____, making it one of the most photographed beaches in the world.”

A) Lush
B) Serene
C) Azure
D) Invigorating

3. What does “invigorating” mean in the sentence below?
“As I stepped into the cool, clear water, I felt an invigorating sensation rush through my body.”

A) Refreshing and energizing
B) Heavy and tiring
C) Soft and smooth
D) Slow and calming

4. What is the main idea of the passage?
A) Navagio Beach is a famous tourist destination that requires effort to reach.
B) Navagio Beach is a dangerous place for visitors.
C) The shipwreck at Navagio Beach is the only reason people visit.
D) The island of Zakynthos is the least visited island in Greece.

5. Why do visitors describe Navagio Beach as serene?
A) It has many hotels and restaurants.
B) It is far from noisy cities and surrounded by nature.
C) It has large waves that attract surfers.
D) It is always crowded with tourists.

Answers to TOEIC-style questions

1. B
2. C
3. A
4. A
5. B

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In-Class Discussion Questions

1. Have you ever visited a beach or natural location that felt secluded or peaceful? What was it like?
2. How do descriptions of nature help you imagine a place you have never been?
3. What makes a place feel serene? Is it the scenery, the sounds, or something else?
4. Navagio Beach is only accessible by boat. Do you think this makes it more special or more inconvenient? Why?
5. If you could describe your dream travel destination, what words would you use?