Discover Skopelos

The Capital of Skopelos

The Settlement of Hora is the capital of Skopelos located on the southeast side of the island. The settlement maintains its traditional character embellished with whitewashed houses, flowery courtyards, charming chapels and labyrinthine alleys. The lovely settlement is build amphitheatrically between the verdant vegetation of the surrounding area. The charming town of Skopelos has been declared as a traditional heritage settlement from the State of Greece. The castle of the island crowns the entire area offering panoramic views of the town.

The Beach of Panormos

The Beach of Panormos is one of the most beautiful beaches of Skopelos. It is sandy bay with turquoise waters located on the west side of the island. The surrounding area offers beautiful natural sceneries with verdant vegetation.

The Castle of Skopelos

The Castle of Skopelos stands on the highest point of Hora. The castle was built on the foundations of the ancient city of Pepartithos. It was constructed from the family of Gizi during the 13^th century and it is visible from everywhere around Hora. The castle of Skopelos has an authentic medieval atmosphere offering stunning views of the surrounding area.

The Church of Agios Ioannis Prodromos

The Church of Agios Ioannis Prodromos is located in Kastri. The monastery was built on the top of a rocky hill during the 18^th century. According to tradition, a local fisherman saw an ecclesiastical icon on this specific spot every day. One night, a woman appeared in his sleep and told him that there was an icon on this spot. The fisherman climbed up to the cliff and found the icon of Agios Ioannis Prodromos. The church was built on that spot. Today, the monastery is inhabited from nuns. The church was the movie location of Mamma Mia.

The Monastery of Agia Varvara

The Monastery of Agia Varvara is located on the north side of the island. It is the oldest monastery of Skopelos. Built in 1648, the monastery distinguishes for its fortified architecture. The area offers panoramic views to the Aegean. Although the monastery is abandoned, it is worth visiting to admire the wall paintings from the 15^th century.

The Village of Palio Klima

The Village of Palio Klima is a mountainous village located on the southwest side of the island. The verdurous settlement nestles on the mountain slopes of Skopelos overlooking the endless blue of the Aegean. Characterized as one of the most charming villages of Skopelos, the lovely settlement is an ideal destination for those looking for tranquillity and relaxation. It is worth visiting the church of Agioi Anargyroi.

The Archaeological Site of Asclepius is located in the area of Ambeliki on the southern side of the island. The ancient temple was dedicated to the father of medicine. Archaeological findings brought to light the remnants of the temple, most of which had been destroyed from the sea.

The Archaeological Site of Selinounda is located at the hill of Paleokastro on the southwest side of the island. The entire area used to be inhabited since the ancient and roman periods. In a close distance, one can admire the remnants of the Roman Baths of Loutraki. According to historical evidence, the ancient town was founded from the inhabitants of Euboea and the area used to have an organized commercial center, an aqueduct along with houses, temples and sanctuaries. One can admire the fortress of Paleokastro and the Roman Baths of Loutraki as well as the remnants of the ancient temple of Athens.

The Archaeological Site of Sendoukia is located on the mountain of Delphi. The area hosts the remnants of four carved graves. Sendoukia are considered to have been the graves of kings and pirates of the Roman period. One will have to walk for a long time in order to reach this archaeological site. However, the views from the mountain will compensate you.

The Venetian Castle of Skopelos stands on the highest point of Hora. The castle was built on the foundations of the ancient city of Pepartithos. It was constructed from the family of Gizi during the 13^th century and it is visible from everywhere around Hora. The castle of Skopelos has an authentic medieval atmosphere offering stunning views of the surrounding area.

The Church of Agios Ioannis Prodromos is located in Kastri. The monastery was built on the top of a rocky hill during the 18^th century. According to tradition, a local fisherman saw an ecclesiastical icon on this specific spot every day. One night, a woman appeared in his sleep and told him that there was an icon on this spot. The fisherman climbed up to the cliff and found the icon of Agios Ioannis Prodromos. The church was built on that spot. Today, the monastery is inhabited from nuns. The church was the movie location of Mamma Mia.

The Monastery of Agia Varvara is located on the north side of the island. It is the oldest monastery of Skopelos. Built in 1648, the monastery distinguishes for its fortified architecture. The area offers panoramic views to the Aegean. Although the monastery is abandoned, it is worth visiting to admire the wall paintings from the 15^th century.

The Monastery of Agios Riginos is located four kilometres from Hora. Agios Riginos is the patron saint of Skopelos. The monastery was built on the foundations of an older monastery in 1728. It is worth visiting the monastery on February 24 and 25 in order to witness the worshiping events and the great procession of the holy relics from the monastery to the Hora of Skopelos.

The Monastery of Panagia Evangelistria is located in Hora. It is one of the most important byzantine monuments of Skopelos. The monastery was built in 1712 while it was renovated from a local family during the 18^th century. The monastery distinguishes for its fortified architecture and its impressive wooden carved iconostasis constructed in a workshop in Constantinople. The monastery offers panoramic views of the town of Skopelos.

The Monastery of Timios Prodromos stands at the foothills of Palouki Mount. The monastery was renovated from monk Filaretos in 1721. Although it used to be a male monastery, it has been converted into a nunnery since 1920. The monastery was built according to the architectural style of Mount Athos. It distinguishes for its wood carved gilded temple and its precious ecclesiastical icons from the 16^th century. The monastery celebrates in honour of the saint of June 24.

The Museum of Cultural Heritage of Skopelos is located in the settlement of Glossa. Visitors can admire the beautiful building of traditional architecture and an interesting collection of folklore artefacts from Skopelos.

The Folklore Museum of Skopelos is located at the center of Hora. The museum is dedicated to the folklore history of the island of the last two centuries. Exhibits include local clothes, embroideries, wooden ships and traditional objects.

The History Museum of Skopelos is housed in the building of Pavlos Nirvanas in Hora. The museum is dedicated to the history of the island in three sections including the social organization, the economy and culture of Skopelos.

The Lighthouse of Gourouni is one of the oldest lighthouses of Greece located on the northern side of the island. Although the lighthouse was built in 1889, it was always off during the Ottoman occupation. Today, a guard lives in the lighthouse. Travellers should be aware that there are many snakes around the lighthouse.

The Residence of Vakratsas is found in Hora. The traditional house of the 18^th century is used as a museum exhibiting folklore objects including traditional costumes, furniture, artistic objects and folklore artefacts. During the summer, numerous cultural events take place in the courtyard of the building.

The Rock of Drakondoshisma is located between the areas of Amarandos and Stafylos. If you turn right from the main road of Skopelos to Glossa, you will have the opportunity to admire the impressive rock that resembles a human hand and the pristine turquoise waters. Unfortunately, access to the coast is only possible from the sea. According to a local legend, a dragon appeared in Skopelos 800 years ago who killed all the residents. As the dragon decided to stay on the island for 400 years, nobody could stay on Skopelos. However, Agios Riginos decided to exterminate the dragon; the dragon got scared and left. The saint chased him and the dragon jumped in the sea, as he had no way to escape. The rock was named after the dragon.

Agnodas is a seaside settlement located on the south side of the island. The area was named following the Olympian Winner of Agnodas who won the race of the Olympic Games of 596 BC and got off the boat on this bay. The natural beauty sceneries of the surrounding area are really beautiful. Undeniably, the forest around Agnodas is stunning. The area is protected from the State of Greece. Agnodas is known for its delicious fresh fish taverns.

Glossa is a mountainous village located on the northwest side of the island. The beautiful settlement nestles on the mountain slopes surrounded from verdant vegetation of pine and plane trees. The haven of the village is the harbour of Loutraki. Worth visiting sights include the monastery of Taxiarhes for the panoramic views and the archaeological site of Selinounda for the remnants of an old settlement. Glossa is known for its delicious fresh fish taverns.

Hora is the capital of Skopelos located on the southeast side of the island. The settlement maintains its traditional character embellished with whitewashed houses, flowery courtyards, charming chapels and labyrinthine alleys. The lovely settlement is build amphitheatrically between the verdant vegetation of the surrounding area. The charming town of Skopelos has been declared as a traditional heritage settlement from the State of Greece. The castle of the island crowns the entire area offering panoramic views of the town.

Neo Klima is a seaside village located on the southwest side of the island. The charming settlement distinguishes for its traditional houses and its dense vegetation. Sailboats and yachts can anchor on the small marina of Neo Klima. Must visit are the beaches of Hovolo and Karkatzouna.

Palio Klima is a mountainous village located on the southwest side of the island. The verdurous settlement nestles on the mountain slopes of Skopelos overlooking the endless blue of the Aegean. Characterized as one of the most charming villages of Skopelos, the lovely settlement is an ideal destination for those looking for tranquillity and relaxation. It is worth visiting the church of Agioi Anargyroi.

Panormos is a seaside settlement with a beautiful beach located on the west side of the island. One can admire the stunning view of the natural harbour surrounded from verdant vegetation. Excursion boats operate to the small island of Dassia. The beach of Panormos is one of the most beautiful beaches of Skopelos.

Spot: Beach of Amarandos, South Skopelos

Spot: Beach of Milia, South Skopelos

Spot: Village of Loutraki, Northwest Skopelos

Spot: Village of Palio Klima, Southwest Skopelos

Boat Tour: The Circumnavigation of the Marine Park of Alonnisos is one of the most beautiful experiences on the island. Discover the beautiful beaches of Agios Petros and Planitis on the isle of Kyra Panagia, the impressive cave formations in the islands of Gioura and Piperi, the sunken ancient city on the isle Psathoura, the charming chapel on the isle of Pappous and the wonderful bays and the monastery of Evangelistria on the isle of Skantzoura.

Boat Trip: The Island of Alonissos is an ark of unadulterated nature blessed with tropical coastlines and verdant vegetation, Alonnisos is different from the other islands exuding its own mysterious character. Undeniably, the stigma of Alonnisos is the beautiful pine forest that gives an aura of brightness and freshness to this tiny paradise. Interesting hiking trails cross the exotic beaches and the verdant forests of the island create mesmerizing sceneries that will captivate you. Old windmills and forgotten threshing fields are everywhere. The discreet charm of the island transforms your journey into an adventure overlooking an unexpected view to the sea. Beyond the colourful seabed of the Mediterranean, it is no coincidence that Alonnisos has the privilege to have the largest Marine Park in Europe, known as the residence of the sweetest monk seal Monachus- Monachus. At the end of your journey, you will be enamoured from the serene atmosphere that Alonnisos inevitably transmits and exudes to her admirers. Almost everyone has a secret paradise; maybe Alonnisos is yours. Excursion boasts operate from the harbours of Kymi and Mantoudi.

Boat Trip: The Island of Skiathos is the queen of the Sporades. It is almost inevitable not to fall in love with the queen of Sporades. Culture and history are evident in every corner of Skiathos. This island will astonish you with the unparalleled beauty of the natural scenery and it will seduce you with the turquoise waters of the seashores. Shielded from verdant vegetation and the everlasting love with the deep blue of the Aegean, Skiathos is a true gem.  Resembling an old painting, this utopia paradise is embellished with endless beauties and azure waters with lush pine forests that will dazzle you! Just a few days in Skiathos are enough to transform this enthusiasm in everlasting love. Walk to the verdant sceneries of Koukounaries, admire the sunset from the beach of Agia Eleni, enjoy your cocktail at Maxilares, discover the inaccessible beaches through a boat trip and watch a movie under the relaxed vista of the stars of the Aegean! The most cosmopolitan island of the Sporades is a green paradise awaiting you to experience it! Bear to discover it for yourself? Excursion boasts operate from the harbour of Mantoudi.

Bicycling: Skopelos is blessed with thick forests of plane and pine trees. Numerous trails cross the beautiful island offering the opportunity to enjoy walks in the countryside and discover the rich biodiversity of Skopelos. Discover more information from the Skopelos Cycling.

Bird Watching: The flora and fauna of Skopelos is quite remarkable. The island has the perfect environment for thousands native and migratory birds. In fact, Skopelos stands for its high ecological value as it serves as major stations and shelters of migratory birds. Particularly in the mountainous areas of Skopelos, one will have the opportunity to encounter endangered bird species including Eleonora’s Falcon, European Scops Owl, Common Buzzard, Hooded Crows, Grey Herons, Herring Gulls, Kestrels, Eagles and Vultures.  Due to the varied habitat, Skopelos has been declared as an important natural environment from the European Network of Natura 2000. Eastern Skopelos is the most popular area for bird watching. Just remember to bring your binoculars and camera with you!

Hiking and Walking: Skopelos is blessed with thick forests of plane and pine trees. Numerous trails cross the beautiful island offering the opportunity to enjoy walks in the countryside and discover the rich biodiversity of Skopelos. (1) One of the most beautiful routes starts from the town of Skopelos towards the village of Palio Klima. The old trail that starts from Palio Klima passes through lush sceneries and leads to the church of Agios Ioannis Prodromos. There, one will have the opportunity to admire panoramic views. (2) Another interesting route starts from the bay of Skopelos. Continuing coast to coast, one will have the opportunity to admire beautiful verdant sceneries. (3) It is also worth following the route that starts from the town of Skopelos towards the bays of Stafylos and Velanio. (4) If you need something more challenging, it is worth ascending Palouki Mountain. The Municipality of Skopelos in collaboration with the Greek National Tourism Organization have created five marked trails. These include Skopelos Hora to Mount Palouki, Vatos in Mount Palouki to the Holy Archangels Monastery, Skopelos Hora to Agios Konstantinos and Source Tzalalis, Palio Klima to Loutraki and Loutraki to Glossa. You will find the maps in the main port of Skopelos.

Kayaking: The opportunity to practice kayak in Skopelos is definitely an unforgettable experience. You will have the chance to admire spectacular rocky formations and the beautiful beaches!  One will find a kayak center in the village of Glossa.

Mountain Biking: The rich natural diversity of Skopelos is highly suitable for mountain biking. Exciting trails from rural roads to specially designed cycling routes are available in various parts of the island. 50% of the surface of Skopelos is made up of forest and hills making it an ideal destination for mountain biking enthusiasts. (1) One of the most beautiful trails starts from the town Skopelos towards the charming fishing village of Agnodas and the hillside town of Glossa. (2) Another interesting route runs from the bay of Panormos to the bay of Stafylos. As Skopelos is one of the best destinations for mountain biking, the Delphi Devil Race is organized in an annual basis.

Agios Giannis is one of the most charming locations of Skopelos located on the east side of the island. It is a sandy and pebbled beach with turquoise waters. However, the most intriguing part is the church of Agios Ioannis perched on the highest point of the rock.

Agnodas is a sandy beach with emerald waters located on the southwest side of the island. It is one of the most beautiful beaches of Skopelos surrounded from verdant vegetation of pine trees. It is also an ideal anchorage for sailboats and yachts.

Armenopetra is a sandy and pebbled beach with emerald waters located on the west side of the island. It is a secluded beach ideal for those looking for privacy. The beach is protected from winds.

Glyfoneri is a sandy cove with emerald waters located on the east side of the island. It is a secluded beach ideal for those looking for privacy. There are delicious fresh fish taverns in the surrounding area.

Glysteri is a pebbled beach with turquoise waters located on the north side of the island. It is a fine beach ideal for those looking for seclusion. In a close distance, one can visit the beautiful cave of Tripiti.

Hovolo is a white sandy beach with crystalline waters located on the west side of the island. Actually, there are three beautiful coves of unique beauty surrounded from huge rocks with verdant vegetation. Hovolo is one of the most beautiful beaches of Skopelos ideal for those looking for tranquillity.

Hodrogeorgis is a sandy and pebbled beach with turquoise waters located on the north side of the island. It is a secluded beach ideal for those looking for tranquillity and total privacy. The surrounding area offers beautiful views to the verdant mountain slopes.

Kastani is one of the most beautiful beaches of Skopelos located on the west side of the island. It is sandy with crystalline waters. It is a secluded beach ideal for those looking for tranquillity. Numerous scenes of Mamma Mia were shot on this beach.

Milia is a long sandy beach with emerald waters located on the west side of the island. The beach offers numerous amenities including sunbeds, umbrellas, beach bar and water sport facilities. Milia is an ideal sunset spot.

Panormos is s sandy bay with turquoise waters located on the west side of the island. It is one of the most beautiful beaches of Skopelos distinguished for its verdant vegetation.

Perivolou is a sandy and pebbled beach located on the north side of the island. The beach is ideal for those looking for tranquillity and seclusion.  The surrounding area offers landscapes of wild beauty.

Stafylos is a sandy bay with turquoise waters located on the south side of the island. It is one of the most beautiful beaches of Skopelos. The beach is ideal for those looking for tranquillity and seclusion.  There is a nice beach bar on the beach.

Velanio is a long sandy beach with turquois waters located on the south side of the island. The beach is partially organized with sunbeds, umbrellas and a beach bar. The beach is nudism friendly.

Coffee Corners

Anemos: Coffee, Agios Georgios

En Plo: Coffee, Skopelos Town

Kanela: Breakfast and Coffee, Skopelos Town

Kyra Leni: Bakery, Glossa

Madalaki: Coffee, Hovoli beach

Thalassa: Coffee, Skopelos Town

Gastronomic Delights

Agnanti: Greek Cuisine, Glossa

Flisvos: Seafood, Loutraki

Gorgones: Greek Cuisine, Hora

Gousto Pizzeria: Italian Cuisine, Hora

Klimataria: Greek Cuisine, Hora

Korali: Seafood, Agnontas

Kymata: Greek Cuisine, Panormos

Manolis: Greek Cuisine, Glossa

Molos: Greek Cuisine, Hora

Perivoli: Greek Cuisine, Hora

Plateia: Greek Cuisine, Glossa

Rodi: Greek Cuisine, Hora

Terpsi: Greek Cuisine, Stafylos

To Delfini Tis Skopelou: Seafood, Panormos beach

Cocktails Inspirations

Bardon: Cocktails and Drinks, Hora

Glistra Beach Bar: Cocktails and Drinks, Glossa

Mercurius Bar: Cocktails and Drinks, Hora

Oionos Blue Bar: Cocktails and Drinks, Hora

P’thrakia Cocktail Bar: Cocktails and Drinks, Glossa

Platanos Jazz Bar: Cocktails and Drinks, Hora

Vraxos: Cocktails and Drinks, Hora

The local products of the island include the virgin olive oil, the excellent wine and the golden honey.

The local specialties of the island include the local cheese pie and blackfish casserole with onions.

Every 25^th of February, the traditional celebration in honour of Agios Riginos takes place at the Monastery of Agios Riginos.

Every July, the International Youth Film Festival takes place in the island. The festival hosts numerous cinema workshops and film screenings.

Every 24^th of July, the traditional celebration in honour of Agios Ioannis Prodromos takes place at the church of Agios Ioannis Prodromos in Kastri.

Every August, the Loizia Festival takes place in Glossa from the Cultural Society of Glossa. The festival is organized in honour of Manos Loizos, one of the most important Greek- Cypriot composers of the 20^th century.  The festival includes concerts, theatrical performances and traditional dances.

Every 15^th of August, the traditional celebration in honour of Virgin Mary takes place in Skopelos. There is a great feast in Glossa on the same day accompanied from traditional food and traditional music.

Every September, the Wine Festival takes place in Glossa from the Cultural Society of Glossa. The feast is accompanied from free wine and dancing.

Mythology

According to mythology, the ancient name of the island was Pepartithos named after the first inhabitant of Skopelos. He was one of the sons of god Dionysus and Ariadne. Others believe that his brother, Stafylos, was the first inhabitant of Skopelos as evidenced from his tomb on the south side of the island. However, the island was named Skopelos deriving from the rocky northern coast of the island. Skopelos in Greek means an obstacle from the aspiring attackers.

History

Archaeological findings show that Skopelos was inhabited since the Neolithic period. In 1600 BC, Minoans settled in Skopelos and the mythical king Stafylos introduced the wine to the locals. Following the Mycenaean period, the island was occupied from the Dolopians of Thessaly who used it as a military base while afterwards the inhabitants of Euboea founded the colonies of Panormos (Glossa) Selinos (Loutraki) and Peparithos (Skopelos Town) developing the trade industry in the island. During the 5^th century, the beginning of the Persian Wars marked the history where the island remained neutral. At the end of the wars, Skopelos joined the Delian League and entrenched a democratic political system. The Spartans, the winners of the Peloponnesian war, substituted the democratic system with an oligarchic political system. During the Roman period, trade thrived again and wine export expanded in many areas of Greece. In 1207, Skopelos was dominated from the Venetians and then it became a shelter for pirates after 1276, with the decline of the Byzantine fleet. The following years, Skopelos fell again under the Venetian rule when the pirate Barbarossa attacked Skopelos and slaughtered the inhabitants of the island. In the region of Sendoukia, there are pirate graves. Skopelos was set free from the Ottoman after the Greek War of Revolution.

By Air: Skiathos has an international airport with scheduled flights on an annual basis.  From April to October, there are charter flights from numerous countries of Europe. The journey from Athens usually lasts thirty to forty minutes. From Skiathos, you can get a boat from the harbour of Skiathos and travel to Skopelos. The journey usually lasts one to two hours. Book your tickets with AirTickets.com!

By Boat (64 Nautical Miles): Skopelos is accessible by boat from the harbours of Agios Konstantinos and Volos. The journey usually lasts three to four hours from the harbour of Agios Konstantinos and three to five hours from the harbour of Volos. Skopelos is also connected with the harbour of Kymi in Euboea and the islands of Alonissos and Skiathos. There is also a small harbour in Glossa. Book your tickets with FerriesinGreece.com !