EXPERIENCE
Explore Skiathos
Lalaria beach: Beauty that knows no bounds
This dazzlingly beautiful beach and 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 carrying visitors from all over the world come 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 spreads along the landscape 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 lure you in.
Local Legend: Alexandros Papadiamantis
Known as the “saint of modern Greek literature”, Alexandros Papadiamantis was a significant and influential Greek writer. It’s about time you met him! 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 on 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 your dilemma will be where to go first. The list is endless: Big Banana, Troullos, Agia Paraskevi, Kanapitsa, Xanemos, Megalos Aselinos. With beach bars, water-front tavernas, umbrellas, sun beds and watersports, Skiathos’ beaches are a work of art.
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 in the oaks, and let your imagination run wild.
The monastery of Evangelistria
The stone walls look like a monastery on Mount Athos. Located on the northeastern tip of Skiathos, it has been there since 1794.
