The rugged, somewhat severe beauty of Santorini and Mykonos certainly has its appeal; this summer, though, it might be time to explore a rather greener side of the Greek islands A journey to the Sporades – comprising Skiathos , Skopelos, Alonossis and Skyros, and some uninhabited isles – means strolling in fragrant pine forests, pottering through hilltop villages, swimming in some of Greece’s most dazzlingly clear waters, and even encountering rare wildlife and ancient shipwrecks.
With easyJet and Jet2 flying direct from the UK to Skiathos from May, it’s never been easier to explore the Sporades islands – each with their own distinctive charm.
Skiathos
The liveliest of the Sporades – but still with plenty of sleepy corners to enjoy a bit of peace beside the azure Aegean – Skiathos draws visitors with its 60-odd pristine beaches, close to 200 km of walking trails, historical treasures and bustling Skiathos Town (where you’ll even find some nightlife).
Do
No holiday in Skiathos is complete without a walk along the sands at Koukounaries – a sweeping golden crescent backed by pine forests, its name derived from the Greek word “koukounari”, meaning pinecone. Anyone wanting a history fix will enjoy exploring the remains of the Venetian Bourtzi fortress or hiking to Kastro, the ancient fortified capital of Skiathos, while the house-museum dedicated to celebrated author Alexandros Papadiamantis offers an introduction to one of the island’s most famous residents and a Greek literary great. End your day with a glass of the island’s finest at the Parissis Winery.
Eat and drink
Dine at Paraxenos in Skiathos Town for a refined take on taverna classics, or enjoy supper with sunset views at Platanos. For a spot of brunch or a sundowner, head to the bar at the Bourtzi, while coffee in the garden at Athos cafe, set next to the monastery in the village of Moni Evaggelistrias, makes a good rest stop.
Stay
To be in the heart of the action in Skiathos Town stay at Skiathos Senses, which has double rooms from £125 per night. Elivi Skiathos , located near Koukounaries, offers a more upscale experience with room rates starting at £210.
Skopelos
Referred to as the genuine "Mamma Mia Island" — although some scenes were filmed on Skiathos as well — Skopelos maintains its relaxed vibe and original charm even after gaining popularity due to the successful movie. Over fifty percent of the island is blanketed by untouched pine forests, and the terrain provides an abundance of olives, plums, almonds, and pine honey.
Do
Wander through the labyrinthine streets of Skopelos Town and explore the 13th-century Venetian fortress, or climb to the majestic Agios Ioannis chapel – standing 100m above the water – where the wedding scene in Mamma Mia! was filmed. Post-hike, slow things down amid the traditional houses in the sleepy hillside village of Glossa, before flopping down on Milia beach – regarded as the island’s most beautiful.
Eat and drink
Sample zucchini fritters called kolokithokeftedes and filled calamari at Stou Dimitraki located in Skopelos Town, then enjoy an evening cocktail at Vrachos Cocktail Bar. To experience rural charm, savor the daily fresh catch at Flisvos in Loutraki, or indulge in satisfying souvlaki pita sandwiches at To Louki in Glossa.
Stay
Doubles at Natura Boutique Luxury Hotel in picturesque Loutraki start at £135. For a resort feel with easy access to Skopelos Town, opt for Skopelos Village Hotel , which has rooms from £115.
Alonissos
Alonissos may be just 14km long and 4km wide, but what it lacks in size it more than makes up for in secluded coves, a postcard-perfect Old Town, and a fascinating range of marine life – good things come in small packages, as they say. Beloved for its friendly feel and gentle pace, Alonissos is the living embodiment of “siga siga” (“slowly slowly”): a local expression which espouses a lack of hurry and an altogether gentler approach to life.
Do
Swim at the striking horseshoe-shaped Agios Dimitrios Beach, seek out sand and shallow waters at Chrisi Milia, and nap under the olive trees at Megalos Mourtias. Along with six smaller surrounding islets, the island forms part of the National Marine Park of Alonissos – the largest marine park in Europe, and home to the rare Mediterranean monk seal.
Inland, you can find the Mediterranean Seal Information Center located in Patitiri, managed by The Hellenic Society for the Study and Protection of the Monk seal—also referred to as MOm. Meanwhile, underwater enthusiasts will delight in exploring the area surrounding the ancient shipwreck near the island of Peristera, which dates approximately from 425 BCE. As dusk approaches, meander through the charming Old Town (known locally as Chora), or spend your evenings chatting along the waterfront at the harbor of Patitiri.
Eat and drink
If you haven't dined among the vines at the Old Town's Astrofegia, then you've missed out on experiencing this location fully. Meanwhile, Thea provides stunning vistas along with innovative twists on classic Greek dishes such as savory feta and manouri "cheesecakes," alongside Alonissos tuna paired with linguine, zucchini, and capers. To complement your meal before or after, enjoy some tsipouro accompanied by live Greek tunes at Hayati, or unwind with crafted cocktails in the courtyard setting at Piperi.
Stay
You'll discover stylish accommodations featuring direct pool access and views of the Aegean in the heart of the Old Town. Aletri Swim Up Hotel , with doubles starting at £130. For an eco-friendly option, check out the Ikion Eco Boutique Hotel, located just a brief stroll from the Port of Patitiri, offering accommodations from £89.
Skyros
Although Skyros is the biggest member of its island group, it receives the fewest visitors—making it possibly the most untouched among them all. Pine forests cover much of the north side, whereas the southern part showcases rugged, rocky charm. This varied terrain serves as an impressive setting for the white cube-shaped houses of Chora, and also acts as a natural sanctuary for one of Skyros' cutest residents: tiny Skyrian horses, akin to Greek versions of Shetland ponies.
Do
Spend a day relaxing on the beaches of Magazia or Molos, then delve into some local history with visits to the Byzantine fortress or the Bronze Age settlement at the Palamari archaeological site. For an immersion in folklore, head over to the Faltaits Museum. Those fond of animals can plan a visit to Mouries Farm, whereas seekers of tranquility and insight into Greek Orthodox traditions will find great enrichment climbing up to the Agios Georgios Monastery.
Eat and drink
Dive into a ladopita pie filled with regional cheese and Skyrian goat served in a lemon sauce at Taverna Agios Petros, or choose freshly caught seafood at Asimenos instead. When you crave a freddo espresso or an evening beer, head over to Rodon, which is a popular spot among locals.
Stay
Merge whitewashed buildings with individual splash pools at ALERÓ Seaside Skyros , where you can get rooms for £80 double occupancy with breakfast included, or opt for self-catering instead. Anemonisia Deluxe Apartments from £65.
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