10 + 1 things to not miss in Skopelos island in Greece
In the region of Thessaly, Skopelos is a member of the Sporades island group. Skopelos’ charm is that it offers an ideal alternative to people who don’t like the wild arid landscape that is a trademark of other famous Greek islands. In fact, Skopelos is often called the “Greenest Greek island” which isn’t necessarily true or false but it certainly provides an accurate short yet sensational description for this beautiful verdant island. Here are a few of its top attractions:
Chora is how the major town of a Greek island is called, although the term is used only for certain groups of islands and not all of them. The Chora of Skopelos is built amphitheatrically above the port with traditional white houses, narrow winded alleys and colourful flowers in every turn.
From the port, you can take the white stairs to the fortress of the island on the top of a rock that overlooks the sea and the settlement below. There you will also see the “Mary of the Tower” Church which is built on the edge of the rock above the water.
The Folk Museum of Skopelos is housed in one of the oldest mansions of the island, built in 1765. Be sure to check the hours the museum is open.
According to the locals, Milia is the prettiest beach of the island. It has turquoise waters, thick and tall pine trees and fine white pebbles.
The most popular beach however is Panormos with its heart shape and the quality of the waters.
Also known as “My Nemesis”, this beach is close to the Chora and you will cross dense pine forests to access it. Beware of your diving mask because this beach likes to steal things when you don’t look. And if your mask was just brand new and the waves took it, you might have mixed feelings about this place. This is an entirely hypothetical scenario.
7. Ai-Yannis Chapel in Kastri
The Hollywood movie Mamma Mia was filmed in Skopelos. The Chapel of Ai Yannis in Kastri was the set for one of the most memorable scenes. So if you want to feel closer to Meryl Streep, go...to a Greek chapel I guess
8. Monastery of the Annunciation of Mary
This monastery is a Byzantine monument, renovated in 1712 to get its current form. It is surrounded by a fortress and it is built on the top of a mountain, having panoramic view to the island and its port.
There is a beautiful hike that starts from Glossa village and leads to the northernmost edge of Skopelos, to this cape with the questionable name “Gourouni” (meaning pig). There you can enjoy the imposing lighthouse that is surrounded by an even more impressive landscape.
Glossa is as popular as the Chora. It is the second largest town of the island and is built on a hill. It has its own port, narrow alleys and traditional buildings. When there, you should try the local delicacies and especially the prune spoon sweet.
11. Skopelitiki cheese pie
You must not leave Skopelos without trying its traditional round goat cheese pie. In fact, you must not leave Greece in general without trying it first. Thankfully, it can be found in taverns in many other regions as well.
Source of inspiration: travelstyle.gr
