About
Skopelos
Skopelos, a verdant island nestled in the central Aegean, beckons you with its captivating charm, pristine landscapes, and rich cultural heritage. Nestled east of the Pelion Peninsula and north of Euboea, Skopelos is the largest island in the Northern Sporades, offering an unforgettable escape for every traveler.
Step back in time and experience:
Step back in time and experience:
- Verdant Landscape: Explore the island’s verdant beauty, with pine forests covering nearly 80% of its surface, earning it the title of the greenest island in the Aegean. Hike through lush trails, discover hidden coves accessible only by boat, or simply relax amidst the natural splendor.
- Island Charm: Wander through picturesque villages adorned with traditional whitewashed houses and vibrant bougainvillea blooms. Immerse yourself in the island’s authentic atmosphere, where the aroma of olive groves and the sound of the Aegean Sea create a truly special experience.
- Diverse Coastline: Skopelos boasts a diverse coastline, catering to every preference. Find your perfect spot on secluded coves ideal for tranquility, or choose from family-friendly beaches with amenities like sun loungers and umbrellas.
- Crystal-Clear Waters: Dive into the crystal-clear waters of the Aegean Sea, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or simply soaking up the warm Mediterranean sun. Relax on the soft golden sand and let the gentle waves wash away your worries.
- Culinary Delights: Indulge in the island’s culinary scene, featuring fresh, locally sourced ingredients and traditional dishes passed down through generations. Savor the fresh seafood caught daily at Agnonda’s fish taverns, savor mouthwatering local cheeses, and enjoy the island’s renowned olive oil and traditional skopelean tiropita (cheese pie).
- Warm Hospitality: Experience the legendary Greek hospitality, where locals welcome you with open arms, adding to the charm and ensuring a memorable dining experience.
- Island Size: Explore a diverse landscape on Skopelos, boasting an area of approximately 96 square kilometers, making it the largest island in the Northern Sporades group.
- Accessibility: Easily reach Skopelos by ferry from mainland Greece or neighboring islands. Additionally, a small airport at Skiathos offers seasonal flights for convenient access.
Skopelos Town: Where Charm Meets history
Skopelos Town, the vibrant heart of the island, welcomes you with its traditional charm, picturesque harbor, and rich cultural heritage. Nestled in a sheltered bay, this captivating town boasts a unique blend of history, architecture, and local life, offering an unforgettable experience for every visitor.
A Step Back in Time:
A Step Back in Time:
- Traditional Architecture: Wander through the charming cobbled streets lined with two and three-story houses, each adorned with characteristic tiled roofs and beautifully decorated interiors. Admire the “Frangomachalas”, the old Venetian quarter, where imposing castle-houses stand as testaments to the island’s past.
- Declared Heritage: Recognized for its unique character, Skopelos Town has been declared a traditional settlement by the Greek government, ensuring the preservation of its historical and architectural significance.
- Over 100 Churches: Skopelos Town boasts over 100 churches, each contributing to the town’s cultural and spiritual tapestry. Explore the Church of St. Athanasius, built in the 9th century on the ruins of an ancient temple, or marvel at the Church of the Holy Apostles, perched on a rock by the seaside.
- Religious Delights: Discover other notable churches like Panagia Papameletiou, Aghios Nikolaos, the holy temple of the birth of Jesus, and Panagia Phaneromeni, each offering a unique glimpse into the island’s religious heritage.
- Harbor Charm: Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of the main port, bustling with fishing boats, ferries, and charming cafes.
- Vibrant Culture: Explore the town’s central square, shops selling local crafts and souvenirs, and traditional tavernas serving delicious island cuisine.
- Festivals and Events: Throughout the year, Skopelos Town comes alive with vibrant festivals and cultural events, offering a unique opportunity to experience the island’s traditions and celebrations.
How to travel
Reaching this idyllic island paradise is a breeze with diverse travel options to suit your preferences.
Ferrying Through the Aegean:
Ferrying Through the Aegean:
- Multiple Ports of Departure: Choose your starting point from mainland Greece or neighboring islands. Embark on your journey from Aghios Konstantinos, Volos, Mantoudi, or Skiathos by ferry boat, catamaran, or flying dolphin.
- Connecting from Athens: If traveling from Athens, the fastest and cheapest way is to conveniently reach Euboea or Mantoudi Harbor by car or bus. Buses depart from KTEL Liosion, timed to connect seamlessly with ferries to Skopelos.
- Travel Times: Depending on your chosen route and vessel type, journey times vary. Expect a voyage of approximately 2 hours from Mantoudi up to 4.5 hours from Volos. There are also some options that could make Volos-Skopelos in 2.5 hours, though more expensive.
- Multiple Ports on Skopelos: Upon arrival, choose your disembarkation point based on your destination on the island. Ferries arrive at Skopelos Town (3km from properties), Agnondas (4km from properties), or Loutraki (30km from properties).
- Closest Airport: Reaching Skopelos via air travel is also an options, with the closest airport located at Skiathos island, a 45-minute distance from Skopelos by ferry.
- Research and Booking: Research ferry schedules and book your tickets in advance, especially during peak season.
- Vehicle Rental: If needed, vehicle rental service booking assistance can be provided.
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Skopelos Beaches: A Paradise for Every Preference
Skopelos boasts a diverse collection of beaches, each offering a unique experience to cater to every traveler’s desire. From secluded coves to family-friendly havens, prepare to be captivated by the island’s stunning coastlines.
Explore a Tapestry of Shores:
Explore a Tapestry of Shores:
- South and West Coast Focus: Most of Skopelos’ beaches are concentrated on the south and west sides of the island, offering a variety of options to choose from.
- Sand or Pebble? The Choice is Yours: Whether you prefer the soft touch of sand or the smooth texture of pebbles, Skopelos has a beach to suit your preference.
- Stafylos Beach: The island’s main beach, Stafylos, only 1300m from our accomodations, is a popular choice for families due to its proximity to Skopelos Town and its calm, crystal-clear waters. While it can get crowded during peak season, its beauty and amenities remain undeniable.
- Velanio Beach: Just around the corner from Stafylos lies the unique Velanio Beach, Skopelos’ only official nudist beach. This beach is ideal for families and couples with its organised beach bars, while a huge rock creates a private, secluded area for nudists. This long, mostly sandy beach offers stunning coastal views and clean waters, perfect for those seeking a secluded and natural experience.
- Amarando Cove: A secluded paradise. Bask in the tranquility of its crystal-clear waters and pristine surroundings, ideal for a peaceful escape.
- Milia Beach: Known for its long stretch of soft sand and vibrant community. Enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and water sports, or explore the charming tavernas lining the shore.
- Kastani Beach – The Mamma Mia Beach: Dive into cinematic history at Kastani Beach, famed for its starring role in the movie “Mamma Mia!”. Relax on the soft, golden sand, swim in the turquoise waters, and recreate iconic scenes on this picturesque beach.
- Agios Ioannis Beach and Kastri: Experience the magic of Agios Ioannis Beach, a small, secluded cove accessible by a short walk or boat trip. Continue your adventure to nearby Kastri, a tiny islet connected by a narrow strip of land, with its small chapel of Ai Giannis, offering breathtaking panoramic views.
Unleash Your Explorer Spirit: Activities for Every Interest
Skopelos isn’t just a haven for relaxation; it’s a playground for adventure seekers! Beyond the idyllic beaches and charming villages lies a world of exciting activities waiting to be discovered. Dive into the Aegean Sea, uncover secret coves, challenge yourself on land, or delve beneath the waves – Skopelos caters to every adventurer’s spirit.
Embrace the Aegean on Boat Trips and Rentals:
Embrace the Aegean on Boat Trips and Rentals:
- Island Hopping Adventures: Embark on a thrilling boat trip and explore the surrounding islands like Skiathos, Alonissos, or discover tucked-away coves and lesser-known beaches on Skopelos itself. Choose from guided tours with knowledgeable captains or rent a boat with or without a skipper, depending on your experience level.
- Unveiling the Underwater World: Discover the vibrant marine life of the Aegean Sea. Rental options for boats and equipment allow you to explore at your own pace, while guided diving and snorkeling tours cater to all experience levels, from beginners to seasoned divers.
- Stand Up Paddleboarding (SUP): Enjoy a unique perspective of the coastline as you glide across the calm waters on a SUP board. It’s a fantastic way to uncover tucked-away coves, enjoy a leisurely paddle, or get a full-body workout.
- Kayaking: Kayak adventures offer a fantastic way to explore the island’s coastline. Navigate through hidden coves, discover off-the-beaten-path beaches, or kayak around dramatic rock formations for an unforgettable experience.
- Bicycle Rentals: Rent a bicycle and explore Skopelos at your own pace. Pedal through charming villages, discover lesser-known sights along the scenic coastal roads, or embark on a challenging ride through the island’s verdant interior.
- Hiking Trails: Lace up your boots and hit the trails! Skopelos boasts a network of well-maintained hiking paths offering breathtaking views, diverse landscapes, and the opportunity to discover hidden monasteries and historical sites. Hiking trails can be found on maps on the Skopelos harbor or on the iSkopelos app.
A Journey Through Time: Unveiling Skopelos' Rich History
Skopelos boasts a rich and fascinating history, dating back to ancient times. From its early settlements to its diverse rulers, the island has witnessed a tapestry of cultures and events that have shaped its unique character.
Early Inhabitants and the Mycenaean Era:
Early Inhabitants and the Mycenaean Era:
- Peparethos and the First Settlers: In ancient times, Skopelos was known as “Peparethos” and was renowned for its wine. The island’s first inhabitants were Cretans, led by Stafylos, son of Ariadne and Dionysus, the Greek god of wine and festivity.
- Unearthing the Past: Excavations in Stafylos/Velanio uncovered a royal tomb from the Mycenaean era, believed to be the tomb of Prince Stafylos, highlighting the island’s significance during this period.
- Prosperity and Renaming: Skopelos flourished in classical times and received its current name during the Hellenistic period.
- Shifting Rulers: Throughout history, the island witnessed various rulers, serving as a place of exile during the Byzantine period and falling under the rule of the Ghisi family of Venice and the Ottoman Turks.
- Liberation and Modern Era: Skopelos gained its freedom in 1830 and became part of the newly established Greek state.
- Experience history yourself: Visit the Skopelos Folklore Museum in Skopelos Town and Vakratsas Mansion to delve deeper into the island’s history and culture through traditional artifacts and exhibits.
- Explore ancient ruins: Discover the remains of the ancient city of Selinounda in Loutraki, including Roman baths and a temple, offering a glimpse into the island’s past.
Sendoukia: Unveiling a Mystery
Nestled on Mount Delphi, Skopelos’ highest peak, lies Sendoukia, a captivating site shrouded in mystery.
- Unveiling the Tombs: Accessible through a scenic hike or by car/motorbike, Sendoukia features several perfectly carved tombs out of pure rock, each with massive stone lids.
- A Historical Enigma: The exact origin and purpose of these tombs remain a mystery, with possibilities ranging from early Roman to Neolithic periods. Their location, offering breathtaking panoramic views, suggests they were intended for significant individuals.
Ancient Settlements: Whispers of the Past
Skopelos holds remnants of ancient settlements waiting to be discovered.
- Loutraki: Explore the remains of the ancient city of Selinounda in the small port village of Loutraki. Informative boards on the waterfront guide you through the ruins, including Roman baths and a temple.
- Chora (Skopelos Town): Always the first to welcome visitors to Skopelos, prepares you, in the most eloquent and seductive way, for what is to follow. Every detail beckons exploration: the paved alleys winding upwards, interrupted by picturesque steps and landings, and the brilliantly whitewashed walls. A magnificent, traditional, and protected village built as a sloping amphitheater in the island’s northern region. While the grand residences, public buildings, and fortifications of the ancient citadel are no longer standing, whispers of the past echo in the preserved city walls and the Asclepieion, the sanctuary of Asclepius.