The second largest of the Sporades, Skopelos is also the capital and historically the most important, due to its wealth, generated by fine locally produced wine. It is located between Skiathos and Alonissos and it’s surface is 96 sq.Km. with a 20 Km length. The coasts are 67 Km long. Its charms are many and varied: firstly the ´chora´ or main town of Skopelos, is considered by many to be one of the prettiest harbour side towns in the Greek islands; its houses are built in tiers which ascend up to the hills from the port which is lined with mulberry and plain trees. Most of the town's tavernas, bars and cafes are to be found along the waterfront, in which traditional Greek food and drinks can be enjoyed. Many hours can be spent just wandering around the narrow cobblestone streets, discovering hidden courtyards filled with flowers, finding the town's many Byzantine churches (there are over one hundred and twenty in the town alone), or just browsing in the small craft shops and boutiques. Secondly the island has a wide selection of beaches from which to choose. Most of the beaches are situated along the southern coast, which can be reached by bus, car or moped, along the island's one main road, but which is best explored by hired boat, so as to find the tiny sandy coves lapped by turquoise sea, which will probably just be shared with a few seagulls. For those who enjoy walking or mountain biking, the interior of the island has a multitude of unmade tracks and trails which pass through tiny hamlets, past peaceful country chapels, and often giving unexpected glimpses of the sea and wonderful views. In one walk you can go through rolling hills and valleys filled with almond, plum, walnut, chestnut and olive trees, past numerous mountain springs, and up steep mountain tracks surrounded by the extensive pine forests.
How to get there
By ferry and hydrofoil from Ag. Kostantinos and Volos on the main land, and from Skiathos and Alonissos. In the summer also from Kymi on Evia, from Skyros and from other islands. There are also flights from Athens to Skiathos and from there by ferry or hydrofoil to Skopelos.