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Skopelos island

Skopelos became famous worldwide after shooting the ‘Mama Mia’ movie during 2008 but it has always been a favorite destination to those who like to discover more than beaches. The island itself has no airport and can be reached by ferry boat or water taxi coming from Skiathos, or ferry coming from Athens or Euboea. Most ferries that call at Skiathos also call at Skopelos and Alonissos. (check out the timetables here)

It is a very green island with a picturesque main ‘town’ (Chora), previously known as ‘Peparithos’. It was named after one of the sons of Goddess Ariadne and God Dionysos. Just as the other Sporades islands it bears the traces of many occupations during its long history. Other villages on Skopelos are Glossa the port of Loutraki ,Neo Klima and Stafylos.


It is assumed that during Minoan times the island was occupied by Cretans. 6th century BC seems to have been a very prosperous era for Skopelos as the island was famous for its export of wine and fine olive oil over the whole Mediterranean region. 


The main town of Skopelos, ‘Chora’, was completely demolished after an earthquake during 4th century BC, and after it was the scenery of many battles, especially between Macedonians and Romans that both wanted to occupy the island for strategic reasons. 

The main town and port of Skopelos is characterized by its small alleys, many churches and traditional architecture. The new port is the port where you would normally arrive, while the old port that is no longer used for commercial purposes lies in the left corner of the town. Stroll through the little streets and enjoy some shopping, Visit the venetian castle of Gyzi, the old Asklepeion or the folklore museum, or just enjoy the view from the top of the town sipping on a fresh drink. 

A unique experience is visiting the workshops of traditional local artists who have been working on wood, clay, metal and glass. 

Churches of Skopelos

Skopelos counts many churches and remarkable monasteries in several picturesque locations. Only on the main town of chora alone there are 123 churches, many of them however are privately owned. Around the town are 15 monasteries and about 40 scattered around the island. It is said that in total there are about 360 temples on Skopelos, a true witness of the deeply religious local culture. Despite the long history of the island most of these temples are from the post-byzantine period.


The most famous churches are the church of Genesis of the Christ that is right under the castle in the old part of town, and is also the main church or the town and the church of Agios (Saint) Athanasios, that is built at the highest point of town overlooking the harbor. This is a single-aisled vaulted basilica, dated back to the 11th century. This church was the main church back at the time and severely damaged by earthquakes in 1965 but the locals have restored its old glory as good as possible.. 

The monastery of Evangelistria is situated about 3.5 Km outside of the main town on the mountain called Palouki and is a remarkable post-Byzantine building with an outside shape that reminds of a fortress and beautiful reliquiae’s the inside.

Would you like to discover more about the Skopelos churches and monasteries? Click on the picture.

Discovering more...

Covered in green pine trees, Skopelos offers a unique exploring experience to all of your senses. Set your destination and embark on a wonderful (day) trip, by car, motorbike, bicycle or hiking. de werkbalk te kiezen.

Glossa

The village of Glossa is situated on the Noth-Eastern side of the island on the green mountains just above the port of Loutraki. It is about 32 Km away from the main town Chora and besides pine-trees you will also notice the many wine-fields in this area, olive trees, plum and almond trees.

There are several stories about the name of the village, but many locals keep it by the fact that your tong (Glossa in Greek ) hangs out of your mouth after climbing up the mountains to reach it. :-)


The architecture here is typical with small alleys and rather Macedonian influences. Most houses are white with the typical ceramic roofs and colorful doors and windows. You might also bump into locals wearing characteristic traditional clothing. Most inhabitants of this area were refugees during the Greek war of independence (1821) and are coming from the areas of Thessaly/Magnesia, Euboea and Chalkidiki.

The main sources of income was agriculture, with wines that were very famous around the Mediterranean, fishing and shipbuilding, although the shipyards are much smaller than the ones you can see in Chora.

The area of Glossa and Loutraki has a history that goes back to the Minoan times, and many discoveries from ancient times have already been made here. Think about ancient castles, retaining’s, buildings and various installations.

In Platana, an area ,situated north of the village of Glossa you can visit the oldest monastery of Skopelos, Agios Taxiarchis that dates back to the 7th century. The history of this area is strongly connected to the history of this monastery as the Greek Church had a remarkable influence on the life in general for many years. The monastery was also an important provider of hagiographies and had its proper workshop between the 18th and 20th century. Just as in Chora, in Glossa you will as well find many churches, the most remarkable being the parish church of The Dormition (Koimisis Theotokou) in the center of the village, the church of Agioi Apostoloi, the church of Profet Ilias and the church of Agios Nikolaos in Loutraki. 

Loutraki

The port of Glossa, Loutraki, is a village on it’s own, and usually the first port the ships call when coming from Skiathos, Euboea or Agios Konstantinos. 



The first references to Loutraki go back to the 8th century BC, when a little town called ‘Selinous’ was settled there. A part of the 5th century city walls on the south- eastern side of the village has been preserved, and many old building-fundaments, Hellenistic and Roman writings and little statuettes have been discovered in that area. Also the ruins of the Roman baths are available at the South-eastern side of the village and it is said that this is where Loutraki owes its name to, because ‘Loutro’ in Greek means bath, and ‘Loutraki’ is a diminishing form of this very word.

A marble statue of the Goddess Athena was found in Loutraki at the end of the 19th century, a statue that is believed to be a copy of the ‘Virgin Athena of Phidias’ statue kept at the archaeological museum of Athens. Together with other findings from the area, the marble statue that was found here, can be admired at the archaeological museum of Volos.


The church of Agios Nikolaos is situated in front of Loutraki port. This church is built on the ruins of a 7th century BC old church, traces of which can be found on the inside.

Hiking tip

About 7 Km north of Glossa lies the picturesque church of Agios Ioannis Kastri. This is one of the famous Mamma Mia film spots. The church is built about 100 m above the sea on an imposing rock and can be reached on foot, after climbing the many stairs carved in that same rock. Once at the top you will enjoy the breathtaking views over the coast of Skopelos and Alonissos. 

The name Agios Ioannis Kastri means as much as the holy Iohannis of the castle, which is why locals believe that on this same spot there was once a castle, overlooking the sea.


In the Mamma Mia film, this is the spot where many wedding-shots were made. There is also a small beach underneath the rock, which tends to get very busy during summer.  You can watch the video here below!

Panormos

About 13 Km outside of Skopelos town lies the very popular beach-town of Panormos. This place is the most known corner of the island and can be very busy during high season (July-August) . Lying amidst the green pine forests are many wonderful bays while along the Panormos promenade you will find many restaurants, bars and shops. Besides a very popular spot for tourists this little towns history refers back to ancient times when it was one of the most important settlements on the island of Skopelos. The old walls that fortified the town can still be recognized. If you like to hike up the hill you will also discover the remains of the old citadel named ‘Palaiokastro’.

Beaches of Skopelos

Skopelos beaches are real jewels, amidst the pine-tree greens, mountains, bays and cliffs. The island is so green that you might even see trees growing on the beach! Their crystal clear waters are very inviting. Take a dive, discover, enjoy, relax!


If you are travelling by public transportation around the island, there is a regular itinerary between Skopelos and Glossa which brings you to some of the most known beaches. Should you hire a boat, you will also be able to reach desolated; untouched bays where you can have a dive completely undisturbed. 

Amarandos cape

In reality this is an extended rock forming a bay with crystal-clear turquoise waters. It is situated on the southwest coast of Skopelos and can be reached by a narrow dirt trail starting near Agnontas. The road is okay for most vehicles, but at the end you will need to walk, finally reaching the rocks with the monumental two pines growing on them. 


Photo: istock

There are no amenities, so bring some drinks and don’t forget your sunscreen. Enjoy the quiet, and the amazing waters of this little paradise on earth!

Photo: Tripadvisor

Panormos beach

Panormos beach is undoubtfully one of the most popular beaches on Skopelos. 


The big bay is covered with pebbles and its inviting smaragd blue waters deepen rather quickly. But usually the waters are very calm, making it a safe place to be, even with children. 

Along the sea-side promenade there is a plethora of bars, restaurants and shops to choose from.

Stafylos

Stafylos beach lies less than 5 Km away from Skopelos town, on the south-eastern part of the island. It can be easily reached hiking along the olive trees and little churches, by car or the bus. 


Its shallow waters are not the most beautiful on the island, but they are crystal-clear and inviting for sure! On the beach there is a beach bar and you can hire sunbeds

Photo: Tripadvisor

Photo: Flickr.com

Milia Beach

Milia beach is the longest beach on Skopelos and one of the few sandy beaches. The waters are Caribbean-blue and the atmosphere is very chill, with enough space to lay your towels and a beautiful beach-bar serving healthy refreshments and small dishes. 

This beach has wonderful views on the uninhabited island of Dassia lying just opposite of it.

Kastani beach

Kastani, a very famous, dreamy bay that starred in the movie Mamma-mia. It lies very close to Milia beach that will make it possible for you to discover both in one day. On the eastern end of the bay you will find a beach-bar and you can rent sunbeds and during high season many beach-parties are organized here by night. The clear waters and rock pools of Kastani make it the perfect place for swimming and snorkeling.

Glysteri

Glysteri, another sandy Skopelos-beach, is situated only a ten minute drive (2 Km) from Skopelos town, making it also a perfect destination for a hike. There is a beach-bar available for drinks and snacks and you can hire sunbeds too. This is another famous Mamma-mia-scenery.

Photo: Tripadvisor

Agnondas beach

Agnontas is a small, picturesque hamlet with only 60 inhabitants, completely encompassed by pine trees. 

Although the beach is not remarkable here, this place hosts some of the best taverns/restaurants on Skopelos making it worth for you to drop by after visiting one of the nearby beaches, or as an evening destination to have a nice meal.


 Agnontas is the islands third and smallest port, that is mainly used by fishermen or as an alternative for Chora, during strong winds. The little village has a good public bus connection with Skopelos town.

Greek food & drinks

Glyfoneri taverna is about 3 Km away from Skopelos town and situated on the sandy beach of Glyfoneri. Next to the astonishing views on the blue sea and the neighboring island of Alonissos this establishment serves authentic local dishes, seafood, salads and mezze. Tel: +30 6946456317

On the main road between Skopelos and Stafylos you will find the family Restaurant Terpsis that exists since 1960. Here you can enjoy many classical Greek dishes, but above all local Skopelos dishes that have been passed from one generation to the other for many years.

Specialty of the house is the staffed chicken. (stuffing includes livers and plums, herbs and walnuts. As this is a dish that needs long cooking it is advisable you make reservations and order it a day or two in advance. +30 24240 22053

If you like to admire the magical sunset and enjoy the local cuisine in a quiet setting you will certainly love Taverna Korali, situated at the waterside of Agnontas village. This family run restaurant is also the place to be for fresh lobster and seafood of all kinds.Tel: +30 2424022407

Nikos Taverna is situated on the beach of Panormos and I mean your table is ON the beach. It offers, next to magical sunsets fresh and descent meals to everyone’s taste. Tel +302424023378


Linarakia tavern, is also situated on Panormos beach, similar setting as Nikos. Here you can enjoy a good meal after enjoying a day on this very popular beach. They serve fresh fish, meat and local dishes. Linarakia, Panormos Tel +302424022868

Limnonari Taverna, next to the beach of Limnonari offers luscious gardens with a view and a menu that is fueled by vegetables straight from the garden of the owners. Here you can enjoy fresh seafood, grilled meats and vegetables as well as traditional Greek dishes. Tel: +30 2424023326

Where to stay ?

Here’s a hand full of beautiful choices for your stay. Click on the titles to be transferred to Booking.com for more details. 

Try one of them out, or search for something different here!


Natura Luxury Boutique Hotel

This property is 2 minutes walk from the beach. Natura Boutique Luxury Hotel is located in Loutraki and features an elegantly decorated restaurant, an on-site bar, a spa and a fitness center. Shuttle service from Skiathos Airport to Loutraki Port is provided, and free WiFi access is available throughout.

Skopelos village hotel

This hotel complex is ideally located in Skopelos, just 600 m from the town center and the harbor. The property features magnificent views over the sea and the picturesque mainland houses.

Stafylos Suites & Boutique hotel

This property is a 5-minute walk from the beach. Set on the beautiful hillside above Stafylos Bay in Skopelos, Stafylos Suites & Boutique Hotel features a free-from pool surrounded by a furnished sun terrace overlooking the Aegean Sea. It is set amid blossomed gardens and includes a poolside snack bar, a children's playground and a library. Free WiFi is offered throughout.

Adrina Beach hotel

Adrina Beach Hotel is located on Adrina Beach near the village of Panormos on Skopelos island. It offers a private beach and an outdoor salt-water swimming pool with sun beds and umbrellas. Free Wi-Fi internet access is available throughout.

Featuring a terrace or balcony with garden or sea views, the rooms offer a flat-screen satellite TV 32'', air conditioning and mini fridge. Bathrooms are stocked with toiletries, slippers and a hairdryer.

Things to do while on Skopelos

Skopelos is rather quiet compared to Skiathos, that has a vivid nightlife. Here you can fully enjoy a relaxed vacation that includes discovering secluded beaches, enjoying the sunset sipping at a local glass of wine, or discovering the islands history through the various hiking routes offered. Note that hiking is not recommended during July & August when it is the hottest period on Skopelos unless you are heat-resistant. 😊

As you may have noticed the blue, beautiful crystal-clear waters of Skopelos are of the islands greatest treasures, but these same waters offer amazing dives if you are into scuba-diving. Discover the colorful fauna of the Aegean, the many shades of blue, and some hidden treasures and shipwrecks.

Click on the picture to find out more!

A Greek night out experience you will find in Taverna Anatoli, that is situated at the highest point of Skopelos town. Make sure you reserve a table cause this place is very popular, even amongst locals. Next to the traditional meals they serve, they have a magical view above the town and serve local wines, all wrapped up with some live singing of the ‘Rebetika’ Greek songs.

Click on the picture to find out more!

And off course, don’t forget the many boat-trips you can book, either at the port of Skopelos or at the reception of your hotel.

Hop to Alonissos!

Click on the picture below to be transferred to Alonissos

I'm working on this, please visit again soon ;-)

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