Reasons Why You Should Visit Skiathos, Greece

Skiathos is an island of natural beauty that shines through on all 60 of the beaches dotted across its coastline. Visit as many as you can for crystal-clear warm waters, long stretches of golden sand and surrounding cypress-topped cliffs or pine forests. There’s a vibe for any day, from buzzing Koukounaries with sunbeds, cocktails bars and activities, to secluded, raw beaches with forestry and craggy hills, like Glyfoneri. Sail between them on boat trips – opt for one that stops at sea caves for added adventure.

Adventure is always enjoyed best with an idyllic backdrop like Skiathos. At the main organised beaches you’ll find lots of opportunities to try watersports. Whizz through the waves on a waterski or banana boat – or head for the blue skies on a paraglider, promising incredible seascape views. Afterwards, steady your nerves with a crisp Alfa beer at a seaside bar.

Make your yoga sessions even more tranquil by heading into the calm Aegean waters. Skiathos Yoga, a company based at Skiathos Princess Hotel on Paraskevi Beach, will teach you the art of YOGAqua: a yoga session on a stand-up paddle board. Learn to balance and perfect those poses as you float out at sea – a serene, transformative experience.

As a lush island, Skiathos is home to amazing wildlife both on land and at sea. Keep your eyes on the skies to spot a soaring falcon. When you’re in the waters, look out for dolphins, rare monk seals, schools of tuna and majestic loggerhead turtles. The best way is by boat trip, or by snorkelling or diving – certified centres available – to get up close and personal with the sea creatures

Skiathos has a big all-year-round population, so many of the restaurants are aimed at locals with traditional, quality food. In the Old Town, wind down alleyways to find the tavernas tucked away: they often have the best offerings of traditional dishes like souvlaki (grilled meat skewers with sides of pitta and dips), moussaka (layered aubergine bake with mince and bechamel sauce) and dolmades (vine leaves stuffed with rice and herbs). For fish, seaside tavernas are best – for something different, visit the Windmill Restaurant. With a carafe of local wine sipped late into the night, it doesn’t get much better than this.

Skiathos Old Town turns into a party when the sun goes down as bars and clubs offer all-night summer parties, usually kicking off after midnight. Head to the nicknamed Bar Street near Trion Lerarchon Square to meet fellow travellers, or to the Old Port for trendy cocktail bars with a sophisticated atmosphere – you may even spot a celeb or two. Fancy some live music? Catch upbeat bands at the Blind Dog or DJs spinning into the night at Montecristo.

History lover? Skiathos’ Evangelistria Monastery is a must-see. The monastery, founded in 1794, played a vital role in the Greek Revolution, offering shelter to fighters and refugees. 1807 saw famous names take the Oath of Freedom here as the very first Greek flag was woven and blessed. Soak up this powerful history as you wander the grounds of Skiathos’ beautiful stone chapels surrounded by countryside – the smell of pine adds to the serenity. There’s also a cafe and garden, children’s play area and a shop selling locally produced products like jams.

On a high, craggy rock jutting out to sea, find Skiathos’ crumbling medieval castle with nearby town walls and remnants of an Ottoman mosque. It’s a long, hard hike to the site, or you can pay for a jeep ride up – either way the views are fabulous. Be sure to visit Bourtzi, a small area that crawls out to sea from the port, with restaurants, cafes and shops. A fort was built here around 1207 with strong walls and towers, and you can still see a few remains. Don’t miss the beautiful churches dotted throughout Skiathos for moments of calm amongst your adventure.

Skiathos is one of the greenest islands in the Sporades with its sweeping areas of forests and groves. It’s known for growing figs, almonds and olives, which you can smell as you wander out to the hills. Skiathos is a wonderful place to hike in spring and autumn, with its 26 organised and signposted walking routes. Amble your way through forests, mountainsides and waterfalls – often opening up to the best views the island has to offer.