Sporades (Skiathos, Skopelos, Alonnisos, Skyros island) are a paradise complex of islands in the Northwest Aegean sea. All the islands have a ferry connection and worth definitely a visit, because here, you will discover, pure blue seas, caves and unique rocky landscapes.
ALONNISOS ISLAND
The weather in Alonnisos
Are you a nature lover, seeking for simple, unspoiled and true Greek experience? Then Alonnisos is your destination, because here you will enjoy relaxation and serenity moments filled with charming and magical scenery.
One of the best sites to visit in Alonnisos is the National Marine Park. This area of unique natural beauty is a habitat for rare forms of wildlife including the Meditteranean seal Monachus-Monachus, dolphins and coral. It is an entire aquatic ecosystem covering Alonissos, the unpopulated islands of Peristera, Kyra Panagia, Psathoura, Piperi, Skantzoura and Gioura, and 22 rocky islets. Furthermore in Alonnisos you will discover the first Underwater Museum of Greece.
The island has a lot of beautiful beaches such as: Agios Dimitrios, Chrisi Milia, Leftos Gialos, Kokinokastro, Megalos Mourtias, Votsi and so many others organized and free. Do not miss to explore the ruins of the Neolithic settlement of Ikos and the ancient cemetery at Kokkinokastro.
At Marpounta beach, the camping Rocks is located. Alonnisos is an ideal place for those who love scuba diving and hiking excursions.
Marpounta beach, Alonnisos
From the port of the island you can participate on a daily cruise to Peristera island. Another amazing daily cruise includes the inhabited island of Kyra Panagia (also known as Pelagonisi). Make a stop at the historic 12th century monastery and the restored flour mill and oil press, before taking a dip at the exotic beaches of St Peter’s and Planitis.
Alonnisos is ideal to stroll around and one of the most wonderful paths to follow, is the walk to the tree-lined trail that leads the Byzantine chapel of the Holy Unmercenaries (Agii Anargiri chapel of 13th century), perched on a cliff with stunning view of the sea.
Agii Anargiri chapel
Agii Anargiri chapel
View from the chapel
Alonnisos has a ferry connection with the following ports: Agios Konstantinos, Volos, Thessaloniki, Evia (Kymi and Mantoudi), Skiathos, Skopelos, Skyros. Before you leave the island do not forget to taste Alonnisos’ tuna, one of the finest – and priciest – fish in Greece, spaghetti with lobster, cheese pie (called alonnisiotiki pie) and fouskakia (doughnuts)! They are all delicious.
SKOPELOS ISLAND
The weather in Skopelos
Crystal clear waters, eye-catching landscapes, lush pine forests touching the seashores are only a few things, you will meet if you visit the island for summer vacations!
Skopelos is great for outdoor activities in amazing natural sceneries. You can try kayaking, diving and hiking. The top beaches of Skopelos are the following: Kastani, Stafilos, Milia, Panormos, Glossa, Agnontas, Chovolos. Glossa’s mountain village is one of the most picturesque settlements in Sporades, perched on a 300-metre-high hill. The village stands out for its characteristic “Macedonian” architecture and traditional lifestyle, which seems untouched by time. In its narrow streets you will come across women wearing the traditional island dress. It is known as one of the “balcony villages” of the Aegean, with fantastic views of Evia and Skiathos.
Do not miss to visit Αi Giannis, the renowned chapel from the Mamma Mia film, where Meryl Streep sings Abba’s song to Pierce Brosnan “The Winner takes it all”.
Skopelos has three ports: Glossa, Agnontas and Skopelos (Chora the capital of the island). Furthermore the island has a ferry connection with the ports of: Mantoudi and Kymi (in Evia), Agios Konstantinos, Volos, Thessaloniki and Skyros.
SKIATHOS ISLAND
The weather in Skiathos
Skiathos, one of the most scenic and verdant Greek islands, owes its evergreen look to the trees scattered all over the place. It’s a cosmopolitan destination with extraordinary natural sceneries, beautiful beaches, exceptional food and vibrant nightlife.
In Chora of Skiathos, you can visit Bourtzi fortress, a small peninsula with lush vegetation where the ruins of a Venetian fortress still stand. Today it is one of the most romantic spots on Skiathos thanks to its densely planted pine trees and stunning views of the archipelago.
The Castle is the most important historical place on Skiathos. It was built in 14th century to protect the island from pirates. This natural fort literally hangs over the sea as it is built on an imposing rock with a panoramic view. History harmonizes perfectly with nature.
CASTLE
CASTLE
CASTLE
CASTLE
You can swim in dreamy beaches with lush vegetation, dance till morning at beach parties and clubs, and explore the rich culture of this Greek island. Skiathos has over 50 beaches some of them so exquisite: Lalaria with crystal-clear waters, smooth white pebbles, steep cliffs that plunge into the sea. Koukounaries with golden sand, it is considered one of the most naturally beautiful in the Mediterranean. It is embraced by a dense pine forest, behind which is Lake Strofilias. Banana, Golden sand, Vromolimnos, Megalos and Mikros Aselinos, Elia, Xanemos, Ligaries and so many others amazing coasts.
From the port of Skiathos you can participate on a daily cruise to nearby islands Skopelos and Alonnisos as well as Tsougrias island.
Skiathos has an airport and a ferry connection with the following ports: Agios Konstantinos, Volos, Thessaloniki, Evia (Mantoudi and Kymi), Skopelos, Alonissos.
SKYROS ISLAND
The weather in Skyros
Popular among couples and families, the island has a picturesque atmosphere and amazing beaches with an exotic landscape! The north part of Skyros resembles with Sporades islands (Skopelos, Alonnisos) and the south part shares many similarities with Cycladic islands. Upon reaching the island, you will encounter the scenic Port of Linaria. Only 10 km away, you will find the beautiful Chóra, amphitheatrically built around a Byzantine castle that occupies the site of the ancient citadel (acropolis).
Furthermore, the carnival in Skyros, is one of the most unique celebrations in the weeks before Lent and Greek Orthodox Easter. During carnival you can experience the remarkable goat dance, done by groups of masked revelers in the streets of Hóra. The leaders of each troupe are the so-called yéri, menacing figures (usually men but sometimes sturdy women) dressed in goat-pelt capes, festooned with huge garlands of heavy sheep bells, brandishing shepherd’s crooks, their faces concealed by kid-skin masks.
Lilliputian horses, miniature furniture and lobster-spaghetti… the island of Skyros is full of unexpected discoveries and authentic touches, perfect for those who like time-honoured traditions and long summer days in the Aegean. There are many amazing beaches for every taste in Skyros. You can find some beaches with visitor amenities, such as sun loungers and umbrellas, but most of them are remote and untouched. Pefkos, Magazia, Acherounas, Kalamitsa, Kyra Panagia, Molos, Gyrismata and many others.
Agalipa beach consists of two beaches where, in the southern one, there is an old shipwreck (pictures below).
During your stay in Skyros, you can visit one of the traditional eco-preservation farms to see the small Skyrian horses. This protected ponies breed, is one of the cutest animals ever and it’s also one of the rarest breeds in the world.
Don’t miss out on a boat trip to the neighboring islets of Sarakino, Skiropoula and Valaxa, and if you’re interested in cave exploration, check out the Pentekali cave, the largest cave on the island.
Skyros has an airport and a ferry connection with the ports of: Evia (Kymi), Skopelos, and Alonnisos.
Would you like to discover even more wonderful beaches of the islands of Greece? Then you can visit:
Santorini island
Aghios Prokopis beach, Naxos island, Cyclades
Sarakiniko, Milos island
Mykonos island
Santorini island
Krios beach, Paros
Mykonos island
Santorini island
Kleftiko, Milos island
Kaminakia beach, Astipalea
Kounoupes islets, Astipalea
Leros island
Leros island
Panteli, Leros island
Astipalea island
Castellorizo island
Blue Cave Castellorizo Island
Chalki island
Pondamos beach, Chalki island
Symi island
Agios Stefanos, Kos island
Lindos, Rhodes island
Hydra island
Spetses island
Moni island (near Aegina)
Russian Naval Bay beach, Poros island
Traveling through Greece and not only there... 