Skiathos – The Cosmopolitan

Welcome to the cosmopolitan town of the Sporades, Skiathos. One of the most lively and youthful destinations in Greece. Nightlife and vibrant beach life are perfectly combined with neat taverns and family holidays.
The dense forests that almost sink into the sea, the golden sand that decorates its beaches and the crystal waters that wash its coastline, make Skiathos unique.
It is an island that has everything. It stands out mainly for how it combines the rich natural landscape with the blue-green seas.

The Town 

The town of Skiathos is located at the south-eastern end of the island in a sheltered bay that divides the island of Bourtzi in two. The settlement is relatively new since it was built around 1829-1830 on the site of the corresponding ancient city. Its trademark has always been its large natural port. Today it is primarily a haven for pleasure boats. This gives the island a strong cosmopolitan character.

The Town is the soul of the island, with white two-story houses with tiled roofs and small flowered courtyards giving it a stately appearance. The beach and the port are full of taverns, cafes and bars. Browse through its narrow streets, look for the house of the writer Alexandros Papadiamantis and learn everything about his life through his manuscripts. Admire the stone mansions and make your way to the old medieval town to enjoy the more atmospheric side of the island.

Blue Beaches

Koukounaries
The beach of Koukounaria is located at the southwestern end of Skiathos. It is also known as “Golden Sand”, since its sand shines golden under the summer sun. It is considered one of the best beaches in the Mediterranean. In addition to the blue, crystal clear waters, the beach is also famous for the Koukounaria forest that reaches almost to the sea. Strofilia lagoon is right next to it. A rare wetland, which is currently a protected area.

Lalaria
At the northeastern end of the island is Lalaria beach, one of the most beautiful in Greece. All-white, steep cliffs rise imposingly above the sea. The wind and the sea water, for millions of years now, create the round, white pebbles, the so-called “lalaria”, which cover the entire beach. The famous “Trypia Petra” is the feature of the beach. “Lalaria” can only be reached by sea. An ideal way is to Rent a boat from the best, Wind Boat Rent, when the weather permits.

Others

Megali Ammos and Achladies are organized beaches with crystal clear waters and picturesque ouzo.
Banana (or Krassa bay): Cosmopolitan beach with a young profile. It is divided into two, the Megali with a beach bar and loud music and the Mikri which is quieter and is chosen by those who like nudism.
The beaches in the western part of the island are more relaxed and quiet: Mandraki, Elia, Agistros, Mikros and Megalos Aselinos with turquoise waters and golden sand.
You can reach Aselenos by road, crossing a section of dirt road, or by Speed Boat.

What else?

Skiathos is a green island, it is probably the most ideal of all for summer hikes. It has 25 hiking trails with a total length of 197 km in incredibly beautiful vegetation. While a route accessible to people with mobility difficulties will soon be completed. Its trails of varying degrees of difficulty are well marked and clearly visible. Along the way you will encounter unspoiled natural environment, streams, running waters, aromatic plants, places with incredible views, small churches and monasteries but also beautiful beaches. One of the most famous routes is the one from the Monastery of Evangelistria to the Castle, 6 km long.

The Castle is ideal for birdwatching and the view from there is breathtaking. If you are a mountain bike fanatic, the terrain here is excellent to enjoy your favorite sport. If you like water sports, Skiathos is your island!