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Skiathos
It's got scenic beauty and great beaches in abundance. So if you're after a taste of the real Greece, Skiathos is a dream holiday destination.
Thomson Destinations
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Skiathos was once an almost deserted island with little but pine trees, olive groves and a few peasant villages. But now it's one of Europe's most popular holiday playgrounds, offering the classic mix of sun, sea, sand and seared swordfish steaks. Most of the resorts which line the south coast are purpose-built and the emphasis is more cosmopolitan than traditional Greek. However, that's not to say Skiathos has lost its rustic charm. The less accessible north of the island remains almost totally unspoilt, with acres of glorious countryside and some lovely uncrowded beaches. And talking of beaches, they're one of the island's star attractions. The only major hub on the island is Skiathos Town, a mix of trendy and traditional, leaning towards the former, with shops, restaurants and yachts sitting next to white-washed houses and tavernas. As for historical sights, there are several quaint old churches and monasteries. But if you're looking for serious sightseeing, it will probably involve a boat trip. Otherwise, just relax and enjoy the slow pace of life. Things to see and do Monasteries Built at the end of the 18th century, the Monastery of Evangelistrias is the gem in Skiathos' small collection of religious landmarks. It's about three miles or so north of Skiathos Town, surrounded by glorious countryside. Also worth a visit is the abandoned 15th-century Monastery of Theotogou Kekhreas - the oldest on the island - if only to enjoy the scenic walk that takes you there. Then there's the Monastery of Panaghia Kounistra, just above Troulos, where the holy icon of Panaghia Kounistra, patron of Skiathos was found. The setting's to die for and there's a little taverna within its walls. Kastro Set on a rocky outcrop, this is the former fortified capital of the island. It was originally built in the 16th century, as a refuge from marauding pirates, and housed no less than 20 churches and 300 or so houses. There are just two of the churches left and some ruins of the walls and gate of the fort. However, the views are magnificent and it makes a pleasant day out, particularly if you take one of the boat trips. House of Papadiamantis Skiathos' most famous former resident was Alexander Papadiamantis, one of Greece's most celebrated prose authors, who wrote 170 short stories and several novellas. The house in which he lived in the early 20th century has been turned into a museum of Skiathos, with the upper floors preserved almost exactly as they were when the writer lived there. Skiathos Graveyard It may sound a rather morbid thing to do, but a visit to the historic graveyard in Skiathos Town can be a fascinating experience - as long as you're not squeamish about dead bodies. The Greeks have a custom of leaving the corpse above ground for a period of time before burial in order to allow the spirit to ascend to heaven. Skiathos' Old Town The ancient quarter of Skiathos Town makes a pleasant place for a stroll, taking you through a labyrinth of winding alleyways lined with quaint, old white-washed houses. The vibrant colours and fragrant scent of bougainvillea hanging from many of the balconies adds to the pleasure. Windsurfing With an almost constant breeze coming in from the north, Skiathos' north coast beaches are perfect for windsurfing. Why not give it a go? Whether you're a novice or an old hand, it's a great way to pass a few hours. Ayia Eleni Sunset Take an early evening trip to the island's west coast and you'll be rewarded with a fantastic view of the sunset over the beautiful blue waters of the Aegean. Travel by bus or taxi to Ayia Eleni beach. Or why not take one of the magical sunset cruises that leave from Skiathos Town?
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Kastro
Lalaria
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Katavothras Bay
Mt Karafiltzanaki
Evangelistra Monastery
Asselinos Beach Elias Mandraki Banana Beach
Megali Ammos
SKIATHOS TOWN
Aspronisos
Ftelia Achladies Maragos Bay Koukounaries Platanias Kolios Achladies Bay Aghia Troulos Paraskevi Kanapitsa
Argos
Tsougria
Skiathos SKIATHOS
2 km
© TUI 2006
Beaches If there's one thing that sets Skiathos apart from some of the other Greek islands, it has to be the beaches. There are around 60 to choose from, lots of them offering up some of the best and safest swimming conditions you'll find in Europe, as well as a good range of watersports. Those on the south coast are well sheltered by cliffs or high ground, making them sun traps too. A regular bus service which runs the length of the only main road gives you the opportunity to try one or all of them out. At the end of the road is the numero uno, Koukounaries, which has been called the best beach in the whole of Greece. It's a particularly eye-catching crescent-shaped sweep of soft, golden sand, fringed with palm trees, that looks like it might have been transported to Skiathos grain by grain from the Caribbean. Most of the beaches on the south coast have at least one snack bar, where you can grab an ice cool lemonade or beer as an antidote to the heat.
On the north coast the beaches are much wilder and a lot less crowded. But they're also much more difficult to get to, many of them requiring a hike or a boat trip. By far the best is Lalaria, a picture-postcard example, set at the island's northernmost tip.
Average daily maximum temperature
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London Skiathos
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Apr 8 5 May Jun Jul Aug Sep Average daily hours of sunshine 9 11 12 12 10 6 7 6 6 5 Oct 7 3
°C
140
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