Description of Skopelos
Skopelos is a beautiful island of
Sporades with splendid beaches, along with pine forests, vineyards, olive groves and orchards.
Skopelos is among the
Greek islands with the richest vegetation and therefore it makes the ideal place for the nature lovers.
Skopelos however is also perfect for those travellers who seek holidays in unspoilt nature and nice
hotels, since tourist facilities are developed.
Geography of Skopelos
Skopelos spans an area of 96,22 sq. km. with a total population of 4.696 residents. The islands closer to
Skopelos are
Skiathos on the east and
Alonnisos on the west.
History of Skopelos
According to mythology, the first settler of
Skopelos was Peparithos, after whom the island gained its ancient name. In 1936, the archaeologist N. Platon, revealed the findings of a Minoan tomb, which was attributed to Stafilos, son of Ariadne and Dionysus. Among the rich offerings of the tomb a sword with golden handle was found which is exhibited in the
Archaeological Museum of Athens. In 18th century, the islanders established their own merchant fleet and the island became a hub for logistics operations to the East, to Istanbul and the Black Sea, but also to the major ports of the West. The acne in shipping accompanied the development of the shipbuilding art in the island. The activity of
Skopelos shipyards will decline gradually until the very end of the 1960's.
Sightseeing on Skopelos
The beaches of
Skopelos are the main tourist sight. Some of them have been chosen for the filming of the movie
Mamma Mia. Stafylos is a unique sandy beach, Panormos, Agnontas, Milia ideal for water sports, Elios and Velanios.
Sentoukia is thename of the Minoan tombs founds on the island. The tombs are located on a very high point on the island and offers stunning view to the islands of
Alonnisos,
Skiathos,
Pelion and even
Chalkidiki and
Mount Olympus if the sky is clear. Next to the port of Glossa there are the remnants of the Roman Baths and an ancient temple of Athena. It is worth visiting also the folklore museum with objects of the recent past of the residents of Skopelos like hand-made embroideries, furniture and local costumes.
Local Products of Skopelos
The famous local cheese pie skopelitiki, pork meat cooked with plums and lobster spaghetti
Getting to Skopelos
By ferry or catamaran boats departing from Agios Konstantinos Port, Volos Port or Thessalonica.
Best time to visit Skopelos
From May till October.
Useful Phone Numbers on Skopelos
Police: +30 24240 22235
Tourist Police: +30 24240 22998
Port Authorities of Skopelos: +30 24240 22180
Health Care Centre: +30 24240 22222
