Skiathos

Skiathos is a stunning island in the Northern Sporades, known for its vibrant atmosphere, golden beaches, and lush green landscapes. Although it’s one of the smallest islands in the Sporades, Skiathos packs a lot of charm and beauty into its coastline and towns, attracting travellers who are drawn to its pristine shores, pine forests, and lively nightlife. The island has over 60 beaches, each offering something unique. Among the most famous is Koukounaries Beach, often hailed as one of Greece’s finest, with soft sand, clear turquoise waters, and pine trees stretching to the water’s edge. Other popular spots include Lalaria Beach, known for its iconic rock arch and white pebbles, and Banana Beach.

Skiathos Town, the island’s main hub, is a bustling, cosmopolitan area with a charming mix of traditional and modern appeal. Its narrow streets are lined with whitewashed houses, vibrant bougainvillaea, and colourful cafes. Papadiamantis Street, the main pedestrian thoroughfare, is the place to go for shopping, dining, and people-watching. The town also has a lively nightlife scene, with many bars and clubs that keep the energy going long after sunset.

Wandering through the island, you sense the aromas of Skiathos’ herbs, mint, sage, thyme, and oregano spread out under the shade of vast olive groves covering 45 square km. If you are a lover of nature, but also of food, it is worth a visit.

Gastronomy

Skiathos boasts a rich culinary tradition that celebrates the fresh flavours of the Aegean. Seafood is a cornerstone of the island’s gastronomy, with local tavernas offering dishes like kakavia (a fish soup with tomatoes, onions, and lemon) and astakomakaronada, a luxurious lobster pasta. Freshly grilled fish, squid, and octopus are also widely enjoyed, often simply prepared with olive oil and lemon to highlight their natural flavours.

A beloved local snack is tyropita, a cheese pie made with local cheese and wrapped in flaky phyllo dough. Skiathos’s loukaniko (Greek sausage) often features a hint of orange zest, adding a distinctive twist. For meat lovers, stifado, a hearty beef stew with onions and wine, is a must-try.

The island’s sweets are a treat of their own, with honey-drenched baklava and amygdalota (almond cookies) served at many local cafes. Skiathos honey, infused with the island’s wild herbs, is often used in desserts and is a popular local product. Dining in Skiathos is a true celebration of Greek flavours, blending the island’s coastal bounty with traditional recipes passed down through generations.