Skiathos



41 nautical miles from the town of Volos lies the island of Skiathos, with its green, soft and idyllic, with some 170 sandy inlets, several bays and 3 harbors. Its highest wooded summit rises to 438 meters. Around the island, there are no less than 9 smaller islands. Two of these, called Tsougries, lie across the main harbour offering safe anchorage to boats, with a small marina for yachts.

The principal town, also called Skiathos, was built in 1830 on two low hills. It is the hub of the tourist summer season, with several hotels, neat villas and rooms to let for any length of time. Of interest in the town is the home of the Greek writer, A. Papadiamantis, who immortalized Skiathos in his short stories.

There is a good road in Skiathos, which hugs the southern coast with its many lovely bays, linking the town with Koukounaries - the famous pine grove - and the beach of Agia Eleni. Another road connects the town with Asselinos. A convenient way to get to know the island is by motor launch. They run at regular intervals to the more popular beaches for a moderate fare.

Food of all kinds, especially fruit and vegetables, are plentiful. If you prefer to eat out, there are tavernas and self-service restaurants.
The nights in Skiathos are especially lively. After a day by the sea, visitors gravitate to one of the tavernas, cozy bars, or discotheques.

Beaches and Places of interest

Koukounaries - the fabulous pine grove after which the region is named. It fringes a long stretch of golden sand for 1,000 meters, and most of its 30 meters width is shaded by pines and shrubs. There are hotels, restaurants and refreshment stalls. You can get there by bus from the town (12 km), or by motor launch. Behind the grove, there is a lovely lagoon, wheat fields and olive groves. From Koukounaries you can walk to the beach of Agia Eleni, which faces the southern shores of Mt Pelion. It is splendidly isolated and offers good fishing.
Also from Koukounaries, it takes 40 min. by foot to reach a quite unspoiled strip of coast, Mandraki, also known as the port of Xerxes. Lalaria, is another famous beach with large pebbles on the N.E. side of the island, accessible from town by boat.

The Kastro, or ancient walled town, lies two hours to the north of the town by foot, accessible by motor boat as well. In the 16th century, the whole population moved to the impregnable rock, which rises to the northeast of the town of Skiathos and built their Kastro. It stands on a rock projecting into the sea and overlooking a wild and jagged coast. A drawbridge was its only link with the rest of the island in the old days, but today it can be approached by climbing up some steps. Its walls once enclosed 300 houses and 22 churches. None of the houses remain, and of the two churches, the Church of Christ is worth a visit for its icons and carved wooden Screen.

Excursions are organized in summer daily to the nearest island, Skopelos and to Alonissos. There are also organized tours around the island by boat.

Tourist facilities:

Yacht harbour: Supply station and facilities for mooring and refueling.
Medical centre, Police station, Garage for light car repairs.
Tourist Police: Tel. 0427/21.111.
Port Authority: Tel. 0427/22.017.
Festivities: July 26, feast of Agia Paraskevi, with folk dances.
Rentals: Cars, mopeds, and boats.