Enjoy the Local Cuisine

Skopelos is one of those self sustaining islands that has plenty of beautiful, edible plants growing on it. Olive trees, grape vines, plum trees, almond trees – they’ve all found their way into the local cuisine, too. Sure, there are some elements of the cooking that are common throughout Greece. However, the way they put together dishes is unique to the island. Seafood is also common here and many tavernas and restaurants incorporate the fresh catches. For instance, there is a dish on the island that uses fresh caught Aegean lobsters and is baked into a macaroni casserole. There is also a sweet dish called Camalia that uses almonds, rosewater, and sugar. You won’t want to miss sampling some of these dishes!

Go to the Beach

The beach is another of the highlights of visiting Skopelos. In fact, the beaches are so stunning, you will be sure to get lost here! Be sure to visit Panormos Beach, which is sandy and has plenty of spacious sun beds, Kastania Beach, which as a great resort vibe to it, Milia Beach, which is picturesque, elegant, and fairly tucked away from the noisy tourist crowd, and Stafilos Beach, which is also incredibly scenic. Other beaches to visit include Glisteri Beach, Perivoliou Beach, and Velanio Beach. As you can see, there is a beach located here that will suit every mood! You could spend most of your time on the island hopping from beach to beach and never get bored. You’ll want to visit them all so you can choose a favorite!

Enjoy Outdoor Sports

Outdoor sports are another thing that you can do while on the island. In fact, the natural beauty of the place will inspire you to get outdoors and experience it! Whether you’re hiking through the countryside, taking a bike tour of various places on the island, or enjoying water sports like canoeing, kayaking, or paddle boarding, these outdoor pursuits offer a nice way for the whole family to spend the day.

Take in the Nightlife

You can’t go to a Greek island without enjoying at least some of the nightlife! There are plenty of bars, clubs, and tavernas to keep you busy here. If you want to go where the locals go, be sure to ask around so that you can enjoy the night the way the Greeks do. Usually this involves delicious food and great music. You can also spend some time in the resort community enjoying the nightlife there, too.

While visiting the island of Skopelos, you won’t want to miss enjoying these fun activities! They’re a great way to take in the culture and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

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The History Museum of Skopelos

The History Museum of Skopelos is housed in the home of the Greek poet Pavlov Nirvanas, whose real name was Petros Apostolides. The house was built during the first half of the 19th century. Nirvanas was born in Russia in 1886 and died in Athens in 1937. The History Museum is located in Chora. The museum is dedicated to the history of the island and divided into three different sections: social organization, culture, and the economy of Skopelos.

Folklore Museum of Skopelos

Located near the center of Chora, the Folklore Museum of Skopelos showcases the folklore history of the island during the past two centuries. The museum is housed in a mansion that was built in 1795 and donated in 1991 by the Nikolaidis family to the Municipality of Skopelos. The Folklore Museum opened in 1992. Older women of the island of Skopelos dug through their chests and belongings ad offered these treasures to the museum.

These hand-made embroidered items decorate the rooms of the mansion. The ground floor of the home is where the sitting area and fireplace are located. The furniture is wood-carved. The bridal bedroom on the second floor has a baby crib. There you can see swaddling clothes and traditional bridal clothes. At the museum you can also view knives, icons, paintings, ceramics, farming tools. In addition to the items donated from residents of the island, many also came from the Nikolaidis family.

Museum of Cultural Heritage of Skopelos

The Museum of Cultural Heritage is located in the village of Glossa, the highest village of the Sporades. The Library Perseus Athineos is part of this museum. The museum, which is housed in a renovated stone house built in 1926, opened its doors in 2008. The house has a balcony where you will be treated to a breathtaking view of the village and the sea. The museum’s aim is to preserve and promote the cultural history of the Skopelos through its naval history, personal items, and manuscripts.

Residence of Vakratsas

The Residence of Vakratsas is a traditional house from the 18th century that is located in Chora, not far from the beach. The house is used as a museum that showcases folklore objects that include: furniture, traditional costumes, folklore artifacts, artistic objects, personal items of the Vakratsas family, and more. During the summer months there are cultural events that take place in the courtyard of the residence. The mansion was once owned by Antigoni Vaktratsas, who donated it to the Municipality of Skopelos so that it could be used as a museum.

When visiting Skopelos, Greece, you won’t want to miss these museums that will expose you to the history and cultural background of this charming island.

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Panormos

If you want a beach that  boasts some incredible views, Panormos is yet! Although it’s around 12 kilometers away from the main town, this beach is easily accessed by car, taxi, or bus. Don’t be turned off by the distance you need to travel to get their from Skopelos Town. The route itself is pleasant and is filled with some beautiful scenery. Once you do arrive at the beach, you will be treated to a beach that is fairly popular in addition to being built up with plenty of facilities, such as cafes and places to change your clothes. You can also rent sun beds here and spend the day relaxing.

Stafilos

Are you looking for a beach that is a little closer to the island’s main town but is still relaxing? Stafilos is the perfect place for you! This is also considered one of the most scenic beaches on the island so don’t forget to bring your camera. One thing that sets this beach apart are the stunning cliffs that surround it.

Milia

This beach is one of the only beaches on the island that is both sandy and has plenty of facilities. The majority of the beaches on Skopelos don’t have sand at all and are made up of small pebbles. Milia beach is also family friendly and incredibly beautiful. There are plenty of sun beds here to rent and many of them also have umbrellas.

Loutraki

If you’re staying in Skopelos Town, Loutraki Beach may not be your first choice. Since it’s 25 kilometers away, this isn’t a beach that you can just spend a few hours on – you need to turn it into a day’s event. However, if you do decide to do that, you won’t be disappointed! This is a beach where you can spend a peaceful and relaxed day. There aren’t many resorts around so you may even have the beach to yourself.

Glyfoneri

Are you staying in Skopelos Town and looking for a convenient beach? Glyfoneri is the place to be because it’s onl 2 kilometers away! In fact, the beach is located in a popular resort area and chances are pretty good that your resort is nearby. If you know that you want a beach vacation, you may want to find a good resort near this beach to stay at.

Although there is an established tourist season on this island, it doesn’t get the kinds of crowds that other places in Greece do. This means that no matter which beach you end up on, you won’t feel like there are too many people on them so that you can fully relax and enjoy your day.

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The history of Skopelos is thought to have begun during the Neolithic period. When visiting the Skopelos, you will have many opportunities to experience the history of the island. One way to see this history is through the monasteries of Skopelos.

The Monastery of Agia Varvara

Located on the northern side of Skopelos, the Monastery of Agia Varvara is the oldest on the island. It was built in 1648 and is distinguished by its fortified architecture. The monastery is surrounded by strong walls. The location of the Monastery of Agia Varvara offers a lovely view of the sea. This location was perfect as a lookout for approaching enemies. There are three gates at the monastery: one is dedicated to Agia Varvara, the second is dedicated to the Circumcision of the Christ, and the third is dedicated to Agios Charalambos.

The Monastery of Agios Riginos

The Monastery of Agios Riginos is just 4 km from Chora. The monastery is dedicated to the patron saint of the island, Agio Riginos. When visiting this monastery, you can also see the tomb of the saint who was martyred in the 4th century. Agio Riginos was of Greek origin. When his reputation for holiness reached the island of Skopelos, the inhabitants got him to be their bishop and their spiritual guide. It is thought the monastery was built in 1728, likely on the remains of an older Byzantine monastery. At one corner of the monastery there are cells and a fountain sits not far from the location.

The Monastery of Timios Prodromos

At the foothills of Mount Polouki, is the Monastery of Timios Prodromos. It is located only 300 meters from Agia Varvara. Until 1920, it was a male monastery and it then became a nunnery. Nuns still care for the monastery today. In 1721, the monastery was renovated under monk Filaretos, which is mentioned on the inscription at the entrance. The temple is wood-carved and high with birds, animals, tendrils, and 15 icons with large feasts. The icons of the Monastery of Timios Prodromos are from the 16 – 18th centuries.

The Monastery of Panagia Evangelistria

Considered one of the most important Byzantine monuments on the island of Skopelos, the Monastery of Panagian Evangelistria was constructed in 1712 and would be renovated by a local family during the 18th century. The location of the monastery offers a panoramic view of the island. The monastery belongs to the Xiropotamos monastery of Mount Athos. In the courtyard there is a roofed fountain that refers to Deponte as the founder of the Monastery of Panagia Evangelistria. There are icons from the 14th century at the monastery as well as other objects and images to view.

These monasteries are just a handful of the ones that are present on the island of Skopelos.

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Skopelos Town

After reaching port, the first village that comes into view is Skopelos Town. This quaint village is the island’s main port and capital and features picturesque whitewashed houses with colorful balconies and flower gardens. It is a classic Greek village comprised of narrow streets and alleys, traditional Grecian churches, fountains and sculptures.

Skopelos Town also has a rich history. The castle and the city walls of the town date back to the 13th century A.D.Also, the Basilica of Athanassios, which is the oldest church in the village, is located within the castle walls. Initially built as a monument to the Goddess Athena in the 9th century, it was renovated in the 1600s and remains an impressive landmark today.

The castle itself is perched on a hill high above the village and is surrounded by labyrinths, alleys and narrow pathways. Most summer activities take place in the center of the village near the port, where travelers will find modern accommodations, stores, restaurants and souvenir shops.

Other monasteries and churches pepper the village as well, and many visitors spend an afternoon touring the structures. The Folklore Museum is located in the village square, which houses collections of all kinds from Skopelos. Here, one can view interesting historical photographs, frescoes, paintings and ceramics.

Elios Village

Elios Village, also referred to by locals as Neo Klima Village, is located 19 kilometers west of Skopelos Town Village. It is characterized by thick pine forests and a lively port.

The village was founded in 1981, which makes it fairly new compared to the rest of Greece. Local residents restored the area after a 1965 earthquake, and it is now a thriving village with a small boat wharf, local shops, pleasant fish taverns and nice accommodation options. Beautiful beaches such as Armenopetra and Hovolo have made the area quite popular among those who enjoy swimming and sunbathing.

Glossa Village

The second major settlement of the island of Skopelos is Glossa Village, which is situated approximately 25 kilometers northwest of the Skopelos Town. Glossa is 250 meters above sea level and is built into the surrounding mountainside. Against the backdrop of almond and pine forests, the village offers outstanding photo opportunities to visitors.

The Monastery of Taxiarhes is a popular landmark on Glossa, and is found in the middle of a thick pine tree forest. Ruins of a 5th century Athenian Temple, a 4th century Selinous citadel and several Roman baths can all be found in this historical village. Visitors have their choice of hotel accommodations or rooms to rent, and the area’s many taverns serve delicious, fresh fish on a daily basis.

Each Skopelos town is unique in its own way, with something to offer essentially any vacationer. Regardless of which destination is selected, visiting one of Skopelos’ enchanting villages is an experience no traveler ever forgets.

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Getting to Skopelos

Before you can spend time in the port town of Glossa, you need to first make your way to Skopelos island. There are actually two ports on the island, and Glossa is one of them. If you know that you want to spend time in Glossa and desire to take a ferry, try to organize your route so that it stops in Glossa. If you take a ferry to the other port, you could always rent a car or take a taxi or bus to Glossa. Keep in mind that there is actually no airport that goes to this island, but there are ferries that do run all year long.

Why Visit Glossa

Glossa is considered to be one of the main towns on the island but despite that, it still maintains a delicate charm. Not unlike the rest of Greece, many the buildings here are painted a bright white color, which seem to glow during the time of peak of sun during the day. The main road winds through the town, showcasing the various shops, restaurants, and cafes. You can easily spend the day here meandering though the streets, taking in the shops, and finding great places to eat.

What to Do in Glossa

As mentioned above, Glossa is a great place for walking. This is your chance to observe traditional Greek life while also enjoying your time on this beautiful Greek island. While here, you also won’t want to miss the chance to spend time enjoying the sea. If you have a lot of time to spend here, consider taking the walking path from Glossa to the nearby village of Loutraki. The path itself boasts some stunning views and the village is charming to explore once you get here. There are also plenty of beaches in the area, so you won’t want to miss the chance to lounge in the sun.

As a side note, Skopelos is also the island where the movie, Mamma Mia, was filmed. In fact, Glossa is a good place to start if you want to track down some of the filming locations. If you want to visit this Greek island, you will find many gorgeous scenery shots in the film. However, nothing compares to actually visiting the place yourself! Glossa is a seaside town that seems to represent the best of what Skopelos has to offer and you can easily spend your whole time on the island exploring it.

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Skopelos is one of those islands that have a rugged charm that has allured people for centuries. Part of the Northern Sporades group of islands, this island has a steady stream of visitors throughout the peak tourist season. Though more and more people find the island each year, the crowds aren’t what they are at some of the larger islands. Still not convinced that you should visit this island? Here are some of our favorite reasons:

Unspoiled Paradise

Because Skopelos is off the beaten path, it has remained relatively unspoiled. This means that those who do visit have access to everything they expect from a Greek island without all the crowds. It’s perfect for those who love to create a vacation on their terms and not let the crowds dictate what they do. Viewing natural scenery that has been untouched for centuries is one of the charms of this island. If your main draw is the scenery, be sure to check out the Sporades National Marine Park, which not only has great scenery, but also many fine examples of Aegean marine life.

Skopelos Town

The main town on the island, Skopelos Town is just as charming as the rest of the island. The town itself hugs a few steep hills, and the winding roads that work their way through the inclines only adds to the charm. While here, visitors can take in the sights, such as the Agios Michali, one of the island’s oldest churches. You can also find all the typical things that make the Greek islands so great – beaches, nightlife, and plenty of restaurants and tavernas to give you a glimpse of the local character. While here, be sure to hit one of the traditional tavernas late at night to enjoy the traditional, soulful rebetiko music.

Gorgeous Beaches

Though the island is small, it does have some pretty beaches that are worth a visit. These beaches have all the character of a typical Greek beach, but without the volumes of people. This means that if you want to travel to Skopelos during peak season, you’ll find that the beaches have a steady flow of visitors without being oppressive. Some of the best beaches include Panormos, Stafilos, and Kastani, all of which are easily accessible from Skopelos Town. If you actually want to experience a busy tourist bustle, Loutraki Beach, which is further away from Skopelos Town than the other beaches, is one of the most popular beaches on the island.

Local Flavors

One thing that Greece is known for is its delicious and healthy cuisine. On Skopelos, you’ll be treated to all the same favorites that you can find all over Greece with the addition of some local favorites. Make sure you eat some Greek lobster before leaving the island! One popular dish, Astakos Giouvetsi, is a lobster dish served with orzo pasta and is definitely worth seeking out. Other seafood favorites include grouper fish and sea urchins, which are considered a delicacy. If you love sweets, don’t miss the amygdolata, which is an almond cookie made with marzipan.

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Location and Access

Panormos Beach is located on the northwest coast of Skopelos, approximately 12 kilometers from the main town of Skopelos. The beach is easily accessible by car or bus, and plenty of parking is available. The road to Panormos Beach is paved and well-maintained, so you can enjoy a smooth ride while taking in the island’s scenic views.

Beach and Surrounding Area

Panormos Beach is a long, sandy beach stretching over 600 meters. The beach is surrounded by lush green hills, making it a picturesque setting for a day at the beach. The crystal-clear waters of the Aegean Sea are perfect for swimming, and the beach is ideal for families with children due to its shallow waters.

The beach is well-organized, with sun loungers and umbrellas available for rent. There are also several tavernas and cafes nearby where you can enjoy a meal or a drink while taking in the stunning views of the beach and the surrounding hills.

Water Sports and Activities

Panormos Beach is not just a place to relax and soak up the sun; it also offers a range of water sports and activities for those looking for more adventure. The beach is a popular spot for windsurfing, and there are several rental shops where you can hire equipment and take lessons.

Kayaking is also popular at Panormos Beach, and several companies offer guided tours. You can explore the hidden coves and beaches that are not accessible on foot and get a unique perspective of the island from the water.

For those who prefer to stay on land, several hiking trails lead up into the hills surrounding the beach. You can take a stroll and enjoy the stunning views of the beach and the surrounding area or challenge yourself with a more strenuous hike.

Local Culture and History

Skopelos is a beautiful island with a rich history and culture, and Panormos Beach is no exception. The beach is located near the ancient city of Selinunt, which was founded in the 7th century BC. The ruins of the city can still be seen today, and several tours will take you on a journey through the island’s ancient history.

Skopelos is also known for its traditional architecture and cultural events. The island is home to several festivals throughout the year, including the Skopelos International Film Festival and the Skopelos Cheese Festival. These events are a great opportunity to experience the local culture and cuisine and to interact with the friendly locals.

Panormos Beach is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Skopelos. With its crystal-clear waters, picturesque surroundings, and range of activities and cultural events, it is the perfect place to relax and soak up the sun while immersing yourself in the local culture and history. Whether you are looking for a peaceful day at the beach or an adventure-filled holiday, Panormos Beach has something for everyone.

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