Skiathos
Sporades group’s busiest member- Skiáthos Island
The most cosmopolitan island in the Northern Sporades is Skiáthos. It is an actual paradise on earth. The lush pine forests and crystal-clear azure waters make the islands atmosphere incredible. The island remains picturesque and unspoilt, despite the growth of tourism during the last decades. Skiáthos is blessed with more than 60 clean and very beautiful beaches. Koukounariés happens to be the most popular one. It was has even been stated as Mediterranean’s third most beautiful beach. Moreover, if you think of the bustling nightlife that the island has to offer it makes no wonder why it attracts thousands of visitors, mostly young ones, every year!
Skiáthos is a real treat for visitors as you can chose whether to party until you drop or hide yourself away from the crowds. The street perfect for full entertainment is situated by the Old Harbour. Plenty of bars and clubs can offer a delirious night life for the young. The party then continues in Ammoudiá where you can find big open air clubs. The Ammoudiá area is on the road to the airport. Moreover, throughout the summer the island has to offer plenty of concerts, exhibitions, colourful cultural events and many more venues that can create your perfect holidays.
Taking a walk around the town of Skiáthos
The biggest settlement on the island is the capital town. It is a modern resort with exceptional facilities for tourists. The settlement is quite new. It is generally assumed to have been built around 1829-30 on the same site as an older town. The town’s natural harbour is probably the most significant landmark. The destiny of the town has been determined by the harbour, for centuries. Today it serves as a popular yacht and sailing boat heaven that gives the island a cosmopolitan stylishness. Walking around the paved streets you will see the charming white houses with red tiled roofs and their beautiful, colourful gardens. Try not to miss visiting Boúrtzi, which is a small peninsula with verdant vegetation where the ruins of a Venetian fortress still stand. The Gizi brothers established the fortress in 1207; however, it was destroyed in 1660 when the island got conquered by Admiral Morozini. Thanks to its densely planted pine trees and stunning views of the archipelago, the fortress is nowadays one of the most romantic and astonishing spots of the island.
Try not to miss the chance to visit the museum of the famous author Alexandros Papadiamantis (whose memory is honoured every year with special celebrations taking place on the 3-4 January and on the 4th of March). Papadiamantis was born and raised on the island. Moreover, you can also go and see the Church of the Annunciation of the Virgin Mary as well as its four museums and the castle. It is a fortress which was used by the residents during the 14th century as a refugee against pirate attacks. Thanks to the breathtaking natural beauty, Kástro attracts many visitors nowadays.
Looking for splendid beaches?
60 are the superb beaches that the island has to offer. Among them is Koukounariés or Golden Sand located in the south-western part of the island that stands out. The lush pine forest is also what makes Koukounaries so famous. The needles of the pines “touch” the water which has unique natural shade- and Strofiliá, a rare wetland nestling amidst the pine forest. It has been declared as a protected area because of its ecological value of great importance. If you are looking for accommodation you can try the campsite at Koukounariés, which is famous among young people. Moreover, you will come across plenty of tavernas and lively cafes and bars. Boat renting is also available as well as tennis courts and exciting sea activities! Meyáli Ámmos, is a popular beach with its characteristic crystal clear waters and picturesque tavernas situated by the sea. The beach is on way to Koukounaries and Ahladiés,
Banana (or Krassa bay) is a wonderful beach surrounded by pine trees while the water sports facilities attract the young visitors. In addition to this, the frantic parties actually take place in the cafes and bars of Banana, 24 hours! Small Banana, is considered to be Banana’s sister beach. You can choose this beach if you are looking for a peaceful place to avoid the crowds. Its clear blue waters and its pine trees will bring you tranquillity and seclusion. The western part of the island also has to offer places where you can avoid the crowds:
Mandráki, Eliá, Agkistros and Small and Big Asélinos are a perfect escape from the cosmopolite side of Skiáthos. on the north-eastern part of the island the Lalária beach lies. It is the kind of place you can find once in a lifetime. You will be impressed by its white rock formations as well as the small round pebbles and the incredibly clean waters. The “hollow rock” that stands strikingly on the beach endows with a beautiful natural backdrop that will leave you wordless. Note that the beach can be reached by boat departing and weather permission given from the port of Skiáthos.
Interesting walking routes:
The lovers of nature will be delighted by the 25 197-km long, well signposted walking routes and trails that give the chance to see several beautiful and unspoilt parts of the island. You can chose your walk depending on your stamina. Some walks can last up to six hours! By following the paths you will let yourself discover the pristine inner side of the island as well as the fabulous secluded spots that will satisfy you with the amazing views of the Aegean! A suggested route is the one that starts from Asélinos and continues past Kounistra Monastery, Small Asélinos Beach and Alygariés Beach and finally ends at Kehriá Beach. Other routes are the ones that go from Ayia Eleni to Krifi Ammos and Madraki-Elia-Agkistro. All of them are a perfect choice for discovering brilliant beaches of unique beauty!
How to get there:
By ferry or high speed ship departing from Volos’ port or Ayios Konstantinos port.
By ferry from the port of Thessaloniki but this applies only for the summertime.
By airplane you can get from both Athens and Thessaloniki.
www.skiathos.gr