The Sporades: Skiathos, Skopelos, Alonissos.
Three lush green enchanting islands with stunning beaches. Among them, the famous sea park of the Northern Sporades. Discover Skiathos, the birthplace of Alexandros Papadiamantis, and enjoy a relaxing swim in Koukounaries, one of the most beautiful beaches in Greece. On Skopelos, where “Mamma Mia” was filmed, you will admire the unique architecture of its capital town (“Hora”). On Alonissos’ hiking trails, you will explore the beauty of unspoiled nature.
Here, in this peaceful and beautiful Greek island in the Sporades, nature will provide you with everything you need
On the western side of the Aegean, on the edge of the Sporades, you’ll find one of the less developed islands, Alonissos. It will captivate you with its unpretentious magic. Charming and pure, its lush, green landscape and pristine beaches with crystal-clear water make it the perfect destination for a relaxing holiday in Greece, filled with beautiful imagery. If you’re looking for a quiet vacation, ensconced in nature, you need look no further. Unspoiled and authentic, it discreetly lets the wind share its secrets.
What to do on Alonissos
Splendour of the Sporades
Alonissos is definitely a place for profound relaxation and rejuvenation of your soul. The southern part of the island is embroidered with beaches, charming bays and green-blue water, with pine trees that reach the water’s edge. In the central and northern parts of Alonissos, you’ll meet the traditional settlement Hora and a network of marked hiking trails and tranquil surroundings. All create an unparalleled combination and you’ll forget the meaning of the word stress.
A stroll through Hora
Walk around the streets in the traditional island town at dusk as a crimson sun disappears into the sea. When you find it, you’ll be rewarded with one of the most beautiful sunsets in the Aegean. The old Hora of Alonissos, with its homes lined up like soldiers, looks like a castle contemplating the sea from above.
A hiker’s paradise
You’ll discover the pure, unadulterated and wild Mediterranean beauty of the island step by step. Whether on a leisurely walk or more strenuous hike, you’ll encounter dense pine forests, bushes, lush vegetation, cedar trees and holly bushes, not to mention wild herbs of all kinds. Make a point of hiking to one of the most stunning spots on the island, the chapel of Agion Anargyron.
Alonissos: Home of the Mediterranean monk seal
Precious islets are divided into two zones, forming the grid of a national marine park for the protection of the Mediterranean monk seal. The valuable habitat is one of the last refuges for this rare and highly intelligent mammal that lives in inaccessible caves. For their protection, people and boats are prohibited from approaching most of the islands in this park.
Hidden gems of Alonissos
Treasures in the deep of the Aegean
Archaeologists excavating in Peristera couldn’t believe their eyes when they happened upon an ancient shipwreck revealing that the first Greeks- built cargo ships had a capacity of over 100 tons. As if that weren’t amazing enough, a total of eight ancient and mediaeval shipwrecks have been found in the area. The treasures that lie on the seabed around Alonissos are priceless!
The threshing festival
Don’t miss the threshing festival of Alonissos, where the island’s women prepare trahana (a soup of cracked wheat and fermented milk) and other homemade food, whilst musicians lift the spirits with traditional songs of the island. It makes a pleasant surprise during your holiday in Alonissos.
The islet of Pelagonisi
Today Kyra-Panagia, or Pelagonisi, is the largest uninhabited island of the Northern Sporades. However, archaeological findings show that it was inhabited very early (6,000 B.C.) and it’s probable that this was ancient Alonissos. The monastery of Kyra Panagia can be found on the southeast of the island and an old olive oil press and windmill are the only other buildings that remain; perfect for a little peace and quiet.
From its deep green trees to its rockin’ bars and restaurants, Skiathos invites you to take part in its distinctive and spirited vibe. Perfect for those who demand high standards, it has long been a premier destination for cosmopolitan, international travellers, particularly those on yachts and sailboats cruising the Mediterranean. At its lively marina, boats of all kinds – many available for private charter – are docked side by side. Holidays on this idyllic Greek island are unforgettable.
The beach service is flawless. Nights in Hora are lively and fun and the spectacular beaches Lalaria and Koukounaria are among the best in Greece. The 14th century castle, the habitat of Strofilias, the caves… there’s beauty on Skiathos at every turn. Youthful and exuberant, this is an island on which you can be sure that the locals will go out of their way to make your stay unforgettable!
What to do on Skiathos
Lalaria beach: Beauty that knows no bounds
This dazzlingly beautiful beach and surrounding landscape put Skiathos on the map. Crystal clear waters, smooth white pebbles, steep cliffs that plunge into the sea. Little boats, yachts and day cruises bring visitors from all over the world to experience its splendour.
Natural wonders: Koukounaries and Lake Strofilias
Discover the second-most talked about beach on Skiathos, Koukounaries. Famous for its golden sand, this seemingly endless beach is considered one of the most natural in the Mediterranean. It is embraced by a dense pine forest, behind which is Lake Strofilias, a unique habitat that is home to a variety of rare birds.
Hora and Bourtzi: A stately welcome
Entering the port, you are welcomed by Bourtzi: a pine-wood islet that is home to the ruins of a Venetian fortress, built in the 13th century. Across the way, Skiathos’ Hora rises up from the shore like an amphitheatre, with its cluster of homes with blossom-red rooftops.
Meet you at Papadiamanti St
This is the main meeting point every night, and where your holidays will take on the rhythm of the island. Cafes and bars throb with life, while restaurants, tavernas and stylish boutiques are sure to entice you in.
Local Legend: Alexandros Papadiamantis
Known as the “patron saint of modern Greek literature", Alexandros Papadiamantis was a significant and influential Greek writer. Here’s your chance to find out more about this towering figure. Born on Skiathos, his work frequently features his birthplace. You will discover in his stories another side to the island, as it was in the 19th century. The Papadiamantis house-museum is located right in the centre of Hora and is one of the most significant attractions in Skiathos.
Sail away ... to the castle
Although also accessible by land, a great way to arrive at beautiful, isolated Kastro (Castle) is by boat (if you don’t have your own, tours leave from Skiathos town daily). Located in the northern part of the island, it was built in the 14th century to protect the Skiathians from pirates. Today, its mystical allure is captivating. Admire the art in two of the 22 surviving churches and marvel at the murals depicting the Nativity of Christ and the ceramics of St Nicholas.
An infinite ring of beaches
There are so many terrific beaches to choose from that you’ll be scratching your head about where to go first. Here’s a sample of some of the names to pique your interest; Big Banana, Troullos, Agia Paraskevi, Kanapitsa, Xanemos and Megalos Aselinos. With beach bars, water-front tavernas, umbrellas, sun beds and watersports, Skiathos’ beaches have your maximum comfort and enjoyment as their primary design feature!
Hidden gems of Skiathos
The sea caves
Holidays mean adventure and exploration – the sea caves of Skiathos await! As long as you have a boat (and it’s very easy to rent one) Pounta, Fonissa and Altanous are all waiting to be discovered.
The watchtower
Pagan altar, Christian spire or Venetian castle? Find the circular building at Pyrgi, hidden among the oaks, and let your imagination run wild.
The monastery of Evangelistria
The stone walls make it look like a monastery on Mount Athos. Located on the northeastern tip of Skiathos, it has been there since 1794.
Here, in this peaceful and beautiful Greek island in the Sporades, nature will provide you with everything you need
On the western side of the Aegean, on the edge of the Sporades, you’ll find one of the less developed islands, Alonissos. It will captivate you with its unpretentious magic. Charming and pure, its lush, green landscape and pristine beaches with crystal-clear water make it the perfect destination for a relaxing holiday in Greece, filled with beautiful imagery. If you’re looking for a quiet vacation, ensconced in nature, you need look no further. Unspoiled and authentic, it discreetly lets the wind share its secrets.
What to do on Alonissos
Splendour of the Sporades
Alonissos is definitely a place for profound relaxation and rejuvenation of your soul. The southern part of the island is embroidered with beaches, charming bays and green-blue water, with pine trees that reach the water’s edge. In the central and northern parts of Alonissos, you’ll meet the traditional settlement Hora and a network of marked hiking trails and tranquil surroundings. All create an unparalleled combination and you’ll forget the meaning of the word stress.
A stroll through Hora
Walk around the streets in the traditional island town at dusk as a crimson sun disappears into the sea. When you find it, you’ll be rewarded with one of the most beautiful sunsets in the Aegean. The old Hora of Alonissos, with its homes lined up like soldiers, looks like a castle contemplating the sea from above.
A hiker’s paradise
You’ll discover the pure, unadulterated and wild Mediterranean beauty of the island step by step. Whether on a leisurely walk or more strenuous hike, you’ll encounter dense pine forests, bushes, lush vegetation, cedar trees and holly bushes, not to mention wild herbs of all kinds. Make a point of hiking to one of the most stunning spots on the island, the chapel of Agion Anargyron.
Alonissos: Home of the Mediterranean monk seal
Precious islets are divided into two zones, forming the grid of a national marine park for the protection of the Mediterranean monk seal. The valuable habitat is one of the last refuges for this rare and highly intelligent mammal that lives in inaccessible caves. For their protection, people and boats are prohibited from approaching most of the islands in this park.
Hidden gems of Alonissos
Treasures in the deep of the Aegean
Archaeologists excavating in Peristera couldn’t believe their eyes when they happened upon an ancient shipwreck revealing that the first Greeks- built cargo ships had a capacity of over 100 tons. As if that weren’t amazing enough, a total of eight ancient and mediaeval shipwrecks have been found in the area. The treasures that lie on the seabed around Alonissos are priceless!
The threshing festival
Don’t miss the threshing festival of Alonissos, where the island’s women prepare trahana (a soup of cracked wheat and fermented milk) and other homemade food, whilst musicians lift the spirits with traditional songs of the island. It makes a pleasant surprise during your holiday in Alonissos.
The islet of Pelagonisi
Today Kyra-Panagia, or Pelagonisi, is the largest uninhabited island of the Northern Sporades. However, archaeological findings show that it was inhabited very early (6,000 B.C.) and it’s probable that this was ancient Alonissos. The monastery of Kyra Panagia can be found on the southeast of the island and an old olive oil press and windmill are the only other buildings that remain; perfect for a little peace and quiet.
From its deep green trees to its rockin’ bars and restaurants, Skiathos invites you to take part in its distinctive and spirited vibe. Perfect for those who demand high standards, it has long been a premier destination for cosmopolitan, international travellers, particularly those on yachts and sailboats cruising the Mediterranean. At its lively marina, boats of all kinds – many available for private charter – are docked side by side. Holidays on this idyllic Greek island are unforgettable.
The beach service is flawless. Nights in Hora are lively and fun and the spectacular beaches Lalaria and Koukounaria are among the best in Greece. The 14th century castle, the habitat of Strofilias, the caves… there’s beauty on Skiathos at every turn. Youthful and exuberant, this is an island on which you can be sure that the locals will go out of their way to make your stay unforgettable!
What to do on Skiathos
Lalaria beach: Beauty that knows no bounds
This dazzlingly beautiful beach and surrounding landscape put Skiathos on the map. Crystal clear waters, smooth white pebbles, steep cliffs that plunge into the sea. Little boats, yachts and day cruises bring visitors from all over the world to experience its splendour.
Natural wonders: Koukounaries and Lake Strofilias
Discover the second-most talked about beach on Skiathos, Koukounaries. Famous for its golden sand, this seemingly endless beach is considered one of the most natural in the Mediterranean. It is embraced by a dense pine forest, behind which is Lake Strofilias, a unique habitat that is home to a variety of rare birds.
Hora and Bourtzi: A stately welcome
Entering the port, you are welcomed by Bourtzi: a pine-wood islet that is home to the ruins of a Venetian fortress, built in the 13th century. Across the way, Skiathos’ Hora rises up from the shore like an amphitheatre, with its cluster of homes with blossom-red rooftops.
Meet you at Papadiamanti St
This is the main meeting point every night, and where your holidays will take on the rhythm of the island. Cafes and bars throb with life, while restaurants, tavernas and stylish boutiques are sure to entice you in.
Local Legend: Alexandros Papadiamantis
Known as the “patron saint of modern Greek literature", Alexandros Papadiamantis was a significant and influential Greek writer. Here’s your chance to find out more about this towering figure. Born on Skiathos, his work frequently features his birthplace. You will discover in his stories another side to the island, as it was in the 19th century. The Papadiamantis house-museum is located right in the centre of Hora and is one of the most significant attractions in Skiathos.
Sail away ... to the castle
Although also accessible by land, a great way to arrive at beautiful, isolated Kastro (Castle) is by boat (if you don’t have your own, tours leave from Skiathos town daily). Located in the northern part of the island, it was built in the 14th century to protect the Skiathians from pirates. Today, its mystical allure is captivating. Admire the art in two of the 22 surviving churches and marvel at the murals depicting the Nativity of Christ and the ceramics of St Nicholas.
An infinite ring of beaches
There are so many terrific beaches to choose from that you’ll be scratching your head about where to go first. Here’s a sample of some of the names to pique your interest; Big Banana, Troullos, Agia Paraskevi, Kanapitsa, Xanemos and Megalos Aselinos. With beach bars, water-front tavernas, umbrellas, sun beds and watersports, Skiathos’ beaches have your maximum comfort and enjoyment as their primary design feature!
Hidden gems of Skiathos
The sea caves
Holidays mean adventure and exploration – the sea caves of Skiathos await! As long as you have a boat (and it’s very easy to rent one) Pounta, Fonissa and Altanous are all waiting to be discovered.
The watchtower
Pagan altar, Christian spire or Venetian castle? Find the circular building at Pyrgi, hidden among the oaks, and let your imagination run wild.
The monastery of Evangelistria
The stone walls make it look like a monastery on Mount Athos. Located on the northeastern tip of Skiathos, it has been there since 1794.
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