The stunning Sporades are a group of islands in the heart of the Aegean Sea that definitely deserve your attention. They are located north of Evia and opposite the prefecture of Magnesia. Around the large islands of Sporades, there are some smaller ones. For instance, Peristera, Jura, and Kyra Panagia are uninhabited. If you are a lover of greenery and flora in general, you will love visiting these islands.
Despite the beauty of their natural landscape, this island cluster is underrated. The peculiarity of these destinations is the fact that they combine green forests, mountains, and beaches with turquoise waters. To discover them, all you have to do is book your ferry tickets using Ferryscanner.
Skiathos: Queen of the Sporades
Skiathos is the most popular island of the Sporades archipelago, known for its lush vegetation and beautiful beaches. The island is also known for its entertainment. Cosmopolitan Skiathos will enchant you. It has beautiful beaches, the most famous being Golden Sand or Kounounaries where the crystal clear waters will mesmerize you. The picturesque alleys of the town with the white houses and cobbled streets are authentic and impressive. Don’t skip a visit to Bourtsi, the small green island with the Venetian fortress that sits very close to the port. The well-known Greek writer Alexandros Papadiamantis came from Skiathos. If you are a fan of his work you can visit his house, which today functions as a museum.
Important sights not to miss are the ruins of the Old Christian church of Agia Sophia and the Church of the Nativity of the Virgin Mary. The old port of Skiathos is dominated by many cafes, taverns, and restaurants. Before leaving the island you must try local dishes such as crayfish with greens and monkfish stew.
Skopelos: Forest of the Sporades
The Sporades are aptly considered the greenest islands of the Aegean Sea. Skopelos certainly matches that description since 80% of its land area consists of forests. You will definitely enjoy the special sunset from the port of Loutraki and the sunrise from the castle. In ancient times the island was called Peparithos and was famous for its wine.
You will definitely need to visit the Venetian castle of Gyzi and the old Bishopric. You will also find a variety of art workshops here. Try the traditional Skopelos cheese pie – it will amaze you. On this island, there are several monasteries – such as Evangelistria, the Monastery of Prodromos. If you are a trekking enthusiast Skopelos is the ideal destination with its beautiful dense pine forests. pend the day lounging at Agnontas, Glisteri, Milia, and many others. The beaches of Skopelos will not leave you disappointed either.
Alonnisos: Hidden gem of the Sporades
Alonnisos is one of the more relatively quiet islands in the Sporades. As unlikely as it may seem, you’ll find everything here from picturesque villages to amazing beaches and delicious food. Patitiri is the only port on the island. It is directly connected to the ports of Volos and Thessaloniki, both located on mainland Greece. You will definitely need to visit the Chora of Alonissos with its traditional houses, surrounded by endless greenery.
Also, the island’s national marine park is the largest in Europe, It is home to the Mediterranean monk seal Monachus Monachus. You can go from Patitiri and spend the day. The excellently marked paths for walkers are visibly marked. Finally, most of the island’s beaches are pebbled with turquoise waters. The most popular ones are Agios Dimitrios, Milia, and Kokkinokastro.
Skyros: Archaeology of the Sporades
Skyros is the southernmost island of the Sporades and is located in the heart of the Aegean Sea. The easiest access is from the port of Kymi. The settlement of Molos with its homonymous beach is a good choice if you love swimming. Notable beaches combined with easy access are Kalamitsa, Acherounes, and Achilli. While exploring Skyros, you can take a boat around the island and admire the beautiful architecture. This place has such a unique landscape. Apart from your summer holidays in Skyros, a good time to visit is Carnival. Notably, this island has important archaeological treasures such as the settlement of Palamari. Make sure to spend time visiting the archaeological and folklore museum!