Skiathos is a paradise for every traveller for its combination of uniquely thick forests and green-blue waters, and the variety of opportunities it offers for all.
Once upon a time, the Titan gods Ito and Nightmare had a quarrel. Ito and Nightmare’s quarrel grew into a war, and they scooped out huge pieces of land and hurled them at each other. Some of these chunks were scattered in the sea in an erratic, or sporadic pattern, hence the island group’s name known today as the Northern Sporades. Skiathos is one of the few Greek islands that has kept the name it was given in ancient times. Neighboring island Skopelos was once called Peparithos, and Alonissos was once called Ikos. One theory of the derivation of the name ‘Skiathos’ is that it comes from a combination of the words “skiá” meaning shadow, and “Athos”, from Mount Athos, because the island is geographically located in the shadow of Mount Athos.
Skiathos is a paradise for every traveller. Not only for its combination of uniquely thick forests and green-blue waters, but also for the variety of opportunities it offers for all ages and tastes. Its landscape is typical of the Sporades island complex.
What sets it apart from the rest however, is that it is by far the most cosmopolitan and extremely easy to reach from the mainland. Skiathos is home to one of Greece’s best authors, Alexandros Papadiamantis, and, like his books, the island will absorb you and reveal a surprise on each page.
Catch a boat from Skiathos Town to reach the secluded Lalaria beach on the northeastern tip of the island. Accessible only by sea, locals and a small number of savvy travellers know that it’s worth it to escape the crowds. The rugged rock formations and isolated sea caves, coupled with the turquoise waters and white pebbles, make it a very photogenic spot.
The pine-clad rocky promontory of Bourtzi juts out into the bay in front of Skiathos Chora and divides the port into two: to the north is the modern port where the ferries dock, and to the west is the more attractive old port, which is used for fishing boats and other small boats. Skiathos town has a lovely maze of alleyways to get lost in, before ducking into an authentic taverna to sample local favourites such as pan-fried prawns, lamb chops or suckling pig.
Skiathos’s countryside is not short of churches and monasteries, but the Monastery of Evangelistria is the most famous. Nestled among ancient vineyards and olive groves, around three miles north of Skiathos Town, the monastery dates back to the 18th century, and was used as a hideout for refugees during the Greek War of Independence. In 1807, it was here that the official Greek flag was raised for the very first time.
Skiathos’ outstanding cuisine, much of which consists of fresh seafood, also includes a number of traditional pies, exceptional sweets, and other extraordinary delicacies! Sweet tooths must track down “Xamalia”(a triangular shaped pastry, fried in local olive oil, and filled with honey and walnut) ,“Amigdalota” (a lightly-baked sweet are cooked with white almond kernel, which the locals knead with sugar and flower water) and “Aspro” (a delicious jam is cooked with slightly-cut, white almond kernel, sugar syrup and lemon).
People in Skiathos know how to have a really good time. One of the hot spots is definitely the ‘’Pillow’’ street, where all of the cocktail bars are gathered. They cover the steps with pillows in order for people to relax and enjoy their cocktails. A place that stands out however as a bit different from the rest is ‘Danny and Zoes Blind Dog’ The place belongs to Danny and Zoe who rock the stage of their own place with all types of music and eras and ‘yes’, they do actually have a blind dog who is the mascot of the place. Having a refreshing drink here is definitely worth it.
Skiathos is usually buzzing with people as it draws a wide variety of people from Greece and around the world. On such islands there are always hidden gems to find and explore as long as you can look in the right direction. We daresay there are two restaurants that fall into that category. Karnayo and Marmita. Both present traditional greek cuisine with a modern twist. If you are a fish lover, Karnayo is the place to be and if you are ready to try many different flavors topped with a great sweet plate at the end, Marmita is the place for you.
As well as Lalaries Beach, which is a definite ‘must visit’, there are many other beaches worth hunting down on your trip to this Greek island. Koukounaries is considered one of the best Mediterranean beaches (picture golden sands, blue seas and forest coming down to meet the water) but pays a price for its fame as it can get crowded. It would also be worth visiting the famous Banana beach which is nearby, if you fancy a bit of a beach party!
Don’t miss the daily excursions of captain Theo and his sailing boat, which takes you around some of the most beautiful spots in Skopelos and Skiathos. Many of the beaches in the Sporades are only accessible by boat and highlights of the day include the island of Dasia with its seal cave, the beautiful beach of Tsougrias and Kastani beach (where Mamma Mia was filmed).
A lovely way to spend an evening is by visiting the open-air cinema, which shows new releases. Of course, three times a week it also embraces movie that put Skiathos on the map: The Mamma Mia! Movie Night is definitely not an authentic Greek experience but it is a fun and raucous night out where audience participation is positively encouraged!
Would you like to find out more about this destination or speak with one of our Epicureans about the best options in Greece? Reach out to one of our experts who can tailor an unforgettable experience that will be the envy of your friends.