Exuberant nature from dense pine forests that descend to the sea. Exotic beaches with white sand and emerald waters. Macedonian architecture of stone and wood on a white Cycladic background, beautiful neoclassical buildings and settlements of postcard beauty. Countless churches and imposing monasteries nestling for centuries on dramatic cliffs overlooking the Aegean. People with an artistic vein who have been sculpting elegant works of woodcarving, pottery and painting for generations. These and many more will make you search without a second thought for ferry itineraries to Skopelos.
Much more than the famous island of “Mamma Mia”, Skopelos remains a “green on blue” paradise for nature lovers, travelers with a bohemian soul and cosmopolitans looking for relaxation and tranquility in the idyllic scenery of the Northern Sporades.
10 reasons to go to Skopelos
Climb the uphill cobblestones of the picturesque Chora Skopelos, a preserved settlement of unique beauty, full of white houses with stone roofs and tiny courtyards, overhanging balconies and countless (123) small churches spread amphitheatrically on three hills above the harbor.
Gaze at the magnificent view of the endless blue from the courtyard of Ai Giannis in Kastri. The small chapel, which is built on top of a rock (100 meters high) in the sea, became famous all over the world from the wedding scene in the movie Mamma Mia. You will reach the spot by an uphill path of 112 steps carved into the stone.
Taste the original recipe of the famous Skopje cheese pie.
Explore the greenest island in Greece, as 80% of its surface is covered by virgin pine forest. In 1997 it was declared “green on the blue island” by the International Biopolitics Organization. So a good opportunity to book your ferries to Skopelos, as it is a special and different destination.
Visit the wonderful Folklore Museum of Skopelos in the center of Chora. His collection is housed in a renovated 18th century mansion and presents two centuries of Skopje life through unique everyday objects.
Attend some of the emblematic exhibitions of the Photography Festival (July) organized by the Skopelos Photography Center.
Tour the acropolis of ancient Selinounda, on the “Paleokastro” hill in Loutraki. The Greco-Roman state was inhabited between 8th BC. and 4th BC century. Admire part of the castle, the sanctuary of the goddess Athena (5th century BC) and the Roman baths.
Visit the mountain village of Glossa, one of the most picturesque settlements of the Sporades, nestled on a 300-meter hill. The village stands out for its characteristic “Macedonian” architecture and the traditional way of life that remains untouched by time. In its alleys you will meet women dressed in the traditional costumes (dresses) of the island. It is considered a “balcony village” of the Aegean with a fantastic view of Evia and Skiathos.
Swim at the exotic Kastani beach, made famous by the filming of Mamma Mia. A paradise of white sand, turquoise waters and pine-clad hills that descend to the sea.
Face the sunset from the beach of Panormos, when the setting sun on the horizon paints the waters golden.
The best beaches of Skopelos
Milia: An endless sandy beach alternating with pebbles, blue-green waters, pine trees and an amazing seabed make up the enchanting scenery of Milia. The favorite beach of the youth is organized and offers a fantastic view of the neighboring deserted island of Dasia, which is worth visiting by boat.
Stafylos: One of the most popular and secular beaches of the island, at a distance of 4 km from Chora and the port of Skopelos. Its transparent waters and fine pebbles make it irresistible. Half of it is organized while the rest offers unique thrills to lovers of tranquility and adventure as it offers rocks for diving and caves to explore. On the cape, at the edge of the beach, the tomb of the mythical prince Staphylos, to whom it owes its name, was found.
Panormos: Vegetated and windless long beach with pebbles and deep blue waters. From Panormos you will enjoy a wonderful sunset and you can approach many small coves that the locals call Andrines (from the legend of the female pirate who drowned in its waters after failing to conquer the island). The beach is organized and offers unique opportunities for water sports.
Velanio: Beautiful and long beach with fine sand and calm waters, covered by an exuberant pine forest. The part located near the rocks, next to Stafylos beach, is a favorite refuge for nudists.
Limnonari: This verdant and sheltered cove with its emerald waters and white sandy beach is a paradise for lovers of idyll