Emerald green beaches that bathe its golden rugged coastline, endless hillsides covered with a thriving pine forest, and reddish-roofed clusters of traditional Pelion buildings: this is what Skopelos looks like from the sea! This unspoiled island is a must-see destination for travelers looking to enjoy Greece in a different way, not only in the summer, but also during the whole month of September. Skopelos is the largest of the Sporades Islands in the Northern Aegean Sea, famous for its crystal-clear waters and culinary tradition. Furthermore, Skopelos was the chosen location for 2008’s popular film Mamma Mia, however, it remains unknown. During my trip with Visit Skopelos Island and Dolphin of Skopelos expert guide I was able to enjoy the hidden wonders that this charming and exciting Greek island holds, so you can start planning your trip next year!

How to Arrive to Skopelos Island

There are several ways to get to Skopelos. You can either take your own private boat or helicopter, or use the regular ferry connections to the island from major cities such as Athens, Thessaloniki and Volos. Alternatively, you can reach the island of Skiathos via Alexandros Papadiamantis International Airport and from there embark on a 1h ferry to Skopelos, while admiring the eye-catching scenery.

We chose Hellenic Seaways ferry company, which has a modern fleet of powerful catamarans, featuring a spacious VIP lounge with snack service and comfortable sofas where you will not be affected by the back-and-forth of the sailing.

Once we arrived in Skopelos, our friendly guides Ioanna and Regina, from Dolphin of Skopelos, gave us a warm welcome and had our rental car ready to start exploring the island that afternoon. When renting a car, it’s important to keep in mind that mountain roads in Skopelos are narrow. Most beaches can be easily reached using the main road along the coast, but at certain points, if you want to find hidden coves, you must access unpaved areas, so a small car with 4×4 drive is preferable.

Natural Wonders

Skopelos is the largest and greenest island of all the Sporades, about 80% of the island is covered with virgin pine forests that literally have taken roots in the sea. They fit in perfect harmony with the colors of the sea, ranging from blue to turquoise tones, that’s why locals call Skopelos “the green on blue” island. Most beaches are rocky, but you won’t miss the sand! The rocks are smooth and remind you of the touch of spa stones. The water temperature is ideal, around 77°F (25°C), even in late September when autumn has not yet begun.

Among the most beautiful beaches we visited was Agnontas Beach, a small paradise in the Southwest part of the island that has numerous restaurants and a pier where you can dock your boat. Perhaps this was our most frequented beach during our stay as it is relatively close to Skopelos Town. Equally beautiful is Panormos Beach, with a longer beach line than the previous one. Here you will find The Ionisi Beach Bar, where you can enjoy refreshing drinks and snacks while spending the afternoon lying on the beach.

However, in Skopelos you can do more than just go to the beach! In the island’s forests there are numerous routes, where you can go hiking, bird watching, cycling or climbing. Water sports are especially popular, from kayaking to scuba diving. You can always choose to rent a private boat or catamaran with catering service included, and spend a day or two spotting dolphins and discovering the most beautiful hidden caves of the island.

Historic Towns

During our trip we had the opportunity to discover some of the most charming villages in Skopelos. With Visit Skopelos Island and Dolphin of Skopelos, we took a walking tour of Skopelos Chora, the main settlement and port of the island, to delve into its fascinating history. I learned that the name of the island in ancient Greek was Staphylos (then Peparethos), after the son of Dionysus, the god of wine and fertility, and princess Ariadne of Crete, who is believed to have been the island’s first inhabitant. The earliest record of the present name appears in the Ptolemaios texts dating back to the 2nd c. AD; the name Skopelos means rock in ancient Greek.

The town of Skopelos has an amphitheater configuration. Its white buildings with reddish roofs hide innumerable passages woven like a maze. It’s impossible not to notice the Church of the Virgin Mary (Panagitsa tou Pyrgou), that stands out on top of a cliff at the edge of town. From there you have an enviable view of Skopelos port and the numerous restaurants along the waterfront.

One and a half hour drive from Skopelos is Glossa, the second largest village on the island, very close to Loutraki Port. It’s a picturesque town boasting traditional architecture. I enjoyed every minute walking through its colorful alleys until we reached the central square where you can find the church and admire a panoramic view of the coast!

Dining Options

Greek food is a delight to the palate! In Skopelos there is a restaurant for every occasion, but my favorites were the following:

• Muses Restaurant & Grill House:

It was the first restaurant we discovered in Skopelos Town. This is the place you should try to taste the traditional and local cuisine. Their specialty is pork with the plum, the typical dish of Skopelos. Also, you must try their signature saganaki with locally produced feta cheese, sesame seeds and honey, and their stoffed octopus. The staff will make you feel welcome in a very special atmosphere!

• Korali Seafood Restaurant:

This restaurant is reserved for a fine dining experience at the golden hour. It’s the ideal place to taste the best fish in Skopelos in a sophisticated atmosphere and with the best sunset view at Agnontas Beach. To start I suggest a dakos salad accompanied by artisan bread and caviar sauce to continue with a perfectly displayed seabass fish.

• Dougia Cafe-Restaurant:

For those looking for a modern place, without losing the essence of the traditional, I recommend this restaurant. Here you must try their reinterpretation of the Greek salad, the creamy katiki cheese of Skopelos, and the lamb stew. Any of these excellent courses can be the perfect pairing for a tasting of the local Staphylos wine in any of its three variants. Meanwhile, you can listen to live Greek music with special performances every night, where they play the famous Greek instrument called bouzouki.

Mamma Mia Experience 

Skopelos became an internationally known tourist destination when Hollywood producers chose the island to shoot the movie Mamma Mia which in 2008 became very popular. For this reason one of the main attractions of the island is the tour organized by Skopelos Excursions, Dolphin of Skopelos and Visit Skopelos Island that takes you to the locations of the film. This was the tour I enjoyed the most during my entire trip! I will dedicate a special article detailing all the stops, including the beautiful Kastani Beach and St. John Chapel.

If you are already planning your summer vacations for next year I encourage you to add Skopelos Island high on your list. There are some fabulous villa rentals in Greece that you can call a home-away-from-home. I will continue to dream of its crystal-clear waters and looking forward to coming back again!