Skiathos boasts more than 50 sun-kissed sandy beaches lapped by Caribbean-blue water which are among the best in Greece – and there’s a chic nightlife – so it's no wonder Olympic Holidays’ passengers return year after year.
Together with the lovely old town of charming shops in a maze of alleyways the island makes an enchanting holiday destination for couples and families.
Koukounaries, in the south-west, is one of Skiathos’ loveliest beaches, with fine sand which shelves gently into the sea, and surrounded by a protected natural reserve with trees offering shade. Away from the crowds, there are a few sun loungers for the simple pleasures of relaxing. Swim, sunbathe, sleep and repeat!
At Vromólimnos Beach watch the sun go down with a drink from taverna or find 400 metres of sand and clear waters at Agía Paraskeví Beach.
Keen walkers can explore the island’s green and wooded interior to pass orchards of pomegranate, pistachio, fig and quince or hike north to explore the mountains, archaeological sites, caves and coves. In the countryside, there are many traditional villages so stop for a drink or meze and chat to the friendly locals.
Skiathos Town’s waterfront offers an array of bars, boutiques and restaurants while the hillier quarters above the old port, near the churches of Tris Ierárhes and Ágia Triáda, have pretty little plazas and gardens for evening strolls.
About 4km from the town, culture seekers can find the beautifully maintained Evangelistrias Monastery where the modern Greek flag was woven and blessed in 1807. A walk from the old town is marked and the part-road and part-track trail rewards with superb views over northern Skiáthos.
For another day out, consider a round-the-island boat cruise from the old port to view sea-caves, the Trypia Petra rock-arch and stops at Asélinos Beach and Tsougriá islet for a swim.
