The origin of the name of Skiathos derives from the work skia (σκιά : Greek for shadow) and the ending -thos (-θός : Proto-Greek for place).
The island was named after the thick shade that the island’s vegetation has provided since ancient times. This name has been retained from ancient times until today.
SKIATHOS
Skiathos lies at the center of the Aegean Sea, opposite the scenic Pelion Mount, and belongs to the lush green complex of the Northern Sporades. A masterpiece of nature, the island is full of olive trees, pines, fennel and thyme, and is an irresistible attraction for everybody.
Skiathos is a cosmopolitan island that has managed to remain pretty and peaceful. The whitewashed houses with their tiled roofs are built on the slopes, while the steep rocky coasts and the golden sandy beaches are some of the local attractions.
The island is the birthplace of Alexandros Papadiamantis, one of the most important figures of modern Greek literature. The house of the poet and novelist serves as a museum and is a trademark of the island.
Skiathos is famous all over the world for its pretty and clean beaches. Each of them with its own charm and beauty. The trees on the beaches provide the swimmers with the oasis of their cool shade. A total of 65 beaches all over the island, with the most fashionable being to the south of the island, including Vromolimnos, Troulos and Koukounaries, while to the northwest you can find the “wilder” but fascinating beaches of Mandraki, Megalos Aselinos, Mikros Aselinos and Lalaria.
Although the island covers an area of just 48 square kilometers, it has over 50 churches and monasteries, such as the monastery of Evangelismos tis Theotokou (the Annunciation) and the monastery of Panagia Ikonistria or Kounistra.
Activities including sea sports, visits to nearby islands, long walks in the forests as well as other sights to see, such as the castle of Skiathos, museums and monasteries will satisfy all the needs for adventure.
WHAT TO SEE
Bourtzi, the lush green peninsula at the port of the island, accommodates the ruins of the 13th c. Venetian castle.
The house-museum of the Greek writer Alexandros Papadiamantis is located within approximately 100 metres from the new port of the island.
Lalaria Beach, one of the prettiest in Greece, with the round white pebbles, lies on the northeastern corner of the island. Access is possible only by boat.
Koukounaries, the most famous beach of Skiathos and one of the most renowned in Europe, with fine golden sand and crystal-clear blue waters.
Kastro, a huge rock thrown into the sea with panoramic view, on which the medieval town of the island was built. One hour from the town by car or by boat.
WHERE TO EAT AND DRINK
Lots of restaurants and taverns in the old and the new port of the island as well as numerous bars overlooking the sea. For more information, ask your host.
EXTRA TIPS
Daily trips from the old port of Skiathos around the island with intermediate stops at various beaches of the island.
Skiathos offers a unique experience to every hiker who loves nature and it is extremely easy for anyone to walk along a hiking route thanks to the explicatory signs, the clearly traced paths and the helpful interventions, which are in perfect harmony with the environment. It is the only island of the North Aegean that offers a total of 25 hiking routes with an overall length of 197 km.
