Skopelos - Sporades

Lying between Skiathos and Alonnissos, Skopelos is the second island in the Northern Sporades chain. It extends 13 miles length by 5 miles width, covers 96 square kilometres and is situated in a geographical with of 38º, like Sardinia, the Majorca islands and Ibiza of Spain, the Azores of Portugal and California of the USA.

Like Skiathos, is densely wooded in pine over its slopes.

It is also very fertile vines, olives, almonds, pears, citrus fruit and plums for which the island is famous are grown.

It is intensely cultivated and the inhabitants are farmers not seafarers. Although the island has a remote feel to it, in summer visitors who come from Skiathos for its splendid beaches invade it every day.

Recently archaeologists discovered evidence of a Cretan settlement, which makes Skopelos the most northerly Minoan site so far, unearthed .

Charming and lovely, exciting and sophisticated, lively and tranquil. There are many such adjectives to describe this shimmering emerald of the Aegean. Skopelos is an island for everyone's taste. Ideal for those who want to do more than lie on the beach all day. A terrific place to explore. An unforgettable adventure in idyllic surroundings.

The island is very mountainous and is made up of two massifs of unequal size. The mountain folds form many ravines and gorges which become small torrents during the wet season. Geographically speaking, Skopelos can be regarded as an extension of the Pelion peninsula. According to the last census in 2001, the whole island had 4.696 inhabitants.

Skopelos Town

Encircling the harbour, Skopelos town has something for everyone; tranquil small squares with marvellous views, quaint churches in magnificent settings or bustling bars with loud music. Its traditional architecture makes it unique amongst Greek islands

The overhanging wooden balconies and the white lace curtains behind painted windows create an intimate atmosphere. The old town is a designated preservation area and new building must retain the old style. Built on a steep slope, it is largely inaccessible to vehicles. For those staying in the town a car is not a necessity. You may wander for hours in the quiet neighbourhoods exploring the 120 Byzantine churches with the carved temples, or the ruins of the 13th century Venetian fortress.

In contrast with the upper vicinities, the harbour side is busy and active. Inter-island ferries, yacht flotillas, hydrofoils, day-trip cruisers, fishing and excursion boats are coming and going. All along the waterfront are cafes, bars and taverns sheltered by huge plane or mulberry trees, and behind these are some marvellous shops. The fine collection of boutiques, jeweller's and souvenir shops reflect the sophisticated side of Skopelos. You will be amazed to notice the beautiful shop signs that enhance the local spectacle. Particularly here most of the business owners have maintained this traditional way of graphic art form on wooden, hand-painted signs. Skopelos town is the island's capital on the east side. According to the last census in 2001, Skopelos town had 3.027 inhabitants.