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GUIDE TO SKIATHOS

 

Skiathos is a Greek island in the western Aegean Sea, in the archipelago of the Northern Sporades. The origin of the name is explained by the fact that Skiathos lies in the shadow of Mount Athos, and from the Greek „skia" means shadow. The name is derived from the cones of the pine trees that line the island. The sand on this beach reflects the sun’s rays due to the mica it contains. The area of the island is 49.9 square kilometers.

The island of Skiathos in Greece has over sixty picturesque beaches, pine trees that grow in the area and excellent hotel and catering facilities. In this paradisiacal setting you can relax, snorkel, dive or go on a sea voyage.

 

How to get to Skiathos?

Skiathos can be reached in several different ways. The most comfortable way is to travel by air. The airport is world famous for the length of its runway, which is no more than 1630m long. The island can also be reached by water via the Aegean Sea, starting from the Greek port town of Volos. The crossing to the island takes about 2 hours. During the cruise there will be no shortage of  attractions and fun for the participants.

 

What is worth visiting on the island of Skiathos?

  • Koukonaries beach – Located among the pine forests, it is considered the most beautiful beach on the island
  • Lalaria – rocks visible from the beach
  • Evangelistria Monastery – famous for producing the first Greek flag
  • Viewpoint on Skiathos – view of the picturesque landscape of the island
  • St. John’s Chapel Agios Ioannis – built on top of the rocks about 100 meters above sea level. 

Who is Skiathos Island for?

– Fans of water sports such as windsurfing

– Sunbathers

– Fans of the Greek climate

– Ideal for families with children

 

When to go?

The best time to go is in June, July and August, in short during the summer holidays. The best conditions for windsurfing and sailing are in August when the sea is warm and the winds are not stronger. For quiet sightseeing it is best to go before the season to avoid the heat and the prices of tours are lower.

 

What to look out for in particular?

Strolling around the island should beware of the many narrow streets, in which very easy to get lost. If you come across one, in places it can resemble amaze! Always remember where you came from.

 

Interesting facts about Skiathos.

– Near the beach is the luxurious Skiathos Palace Hotel, where Princess Diana used to spend her vacations.

– Scenes from the cult musical „Mamma Mia" were filmed on Skiathos. Now you can buy many gadgets related to this musical.

– Alexander Papadiamantis was born and spent his childhood on this island. He was a famous Greek writer and translator.

– Almost all the houses are white. This is due to the desire of the Greeks to show their belonging to the country during the Turkish occupation. National symbols were forbidden at the time, so this was their way of rubbing their noses in it.

 

Surely, the island of Skiathos, despite the fact that it wasn’t popular until recently, is worthy of your attention. Even a moment spent on the island can enchant! Beautiful beaches, turquoise water and good food are all you need to be happy!