Island group · Σποράδες
Pine forest down to the waterline, a marine park, and an easy trip from the mainland.
Skopelos town
01IntroductionΣποράδες
The “scattered” islands lie off the Pelion peninsula. They are green, with pine trees growing almost to the sand, and they get far fewer international visitors than the Cyclades.
Skopelos is known for its chapels, plum orchards and a well-known film location. Alonissos sits inside the National Marine Park of Alonissos and the Northern Sporades, a protected area for the Mediterranean monk seal.
- When to go
- June to September
- Meltemi, July–August
- Meltemi: moderate
- Islands we suggest
- 3
02At a glance
- Best for
- Green islands and shade · Clear water and boat trips · Pairing with Pelion or Meteora
- When to go
- June to September
- Meltemi
- The Sporades feel the meltemi but less than the central Aegean. Pine-backed southern bays stay calm on most days. Ferries, beaches and sheltered spots
- Getting there
- Skiathos has an airport with seasonal international flights. Ferries and fast boats run from Volos and Agios Konstantinos and link Skiathos, Skopelos and Alonissos.
- Skip it if
- You want ancient sites or busy nightlife (Skiathos aside).
03The islands, for couples
- 01 Skopelos The Chora tumbles down to its harbour, with chapels on every rise. Agios Ioannis sto Kastri is the chapel on the rock from the film.
- 02 Alonissos Quiet, protected and good for boat days into the marine park.
- 03 Skiathos The arrival point, with lively evenings and many beaches. Fine for a night or two before moving on.
04Sites, food and stays
What to eat
- Skopelos cheese pieA coil of thin pastry filled with tangy cheese and fried until crisp. Best eaten straight from the pan.
Enquire
Thinking about the Sporades?
Tell us your dates and we’ll suggest the right island or two, and the ferry order that works in your month.
Alonissos