Holidays to Skiathos

Sitting pretty in the northeast Aegean, just off the Greek mainland, Skiathos is a verdant island of tree-lined bays, coastal villages and buzzing nightlife – particularly in Skiathos Town – that attracts an eclectic crowd from across Europe. And being a relatively small, untouched island, unlike some of its neighbours who are somewhat overrun by sprawling all-inclusive complexes, Skiathos instead boasts family-run boutique resorts, charming guesthouses and only one or two five-star design hotels, all making for an enchanting mix. Of course, your holiday to any Greek island should quite rightly involve plenty of beach time, and Skiathos does not disappoint. There’s dramatic Lalaria Beach in the north, Koukounariés Bay – one of the most beautiful beaches in the Med, then Kanapitsa, Vromolimnos, Agia Paraskevi and Kolios Beach, all of which are great for their watersports and seafront bars. Each has their own backdrop of either soaring white cliffs or lush forest, perhaps an occasional fishing village or traditional row of houses; some of the most scenic coastal spots around. Then, for something a little more cultural, visit the pretty Monastery of St. Charalambos, Agios Nikolaos Church and Clock Tower, and Monastero di Panagia Evangelistria for great views as well as a slice of history. With a swathe of fine local restaurants, lively bars and beach clubs to also enjoy, plus those iconic, insta-worthy villages dotted throughout the island, there’s a lot to unpack on little Skiathos.