MINI GUIDE FOR SKYROS ISLAND

Skyros was an unexpected surprise for me!

Skyros Island is part of the Sporades archipelago in the Aegean Sea, located off the eastern coast of mainland Greece. It is northeast of the island of Euboea (Evia) and northwest of the island of Skiathos. It is an ideal destination for those seeking a blend of natural beauty, cultural experiences, good food and a tranquil environment. Whether you’re interested in exploring historical sites, relaxing on beautiful beaches, or enjoying traditional Greek hospitality, Skyros has something to offer.

Unlike some of the more tourist-heavy Greek islands, Skyros offers a more tranquil and authentic experience, making it ideal for a relaxing getaway and providing a genuine Greek island experience away from the crowds.

ACCESS

Access to Skyros Island can be achieved by both sea and air, depending on your preference and point of departure.

By sea:

1. Drive till Kymi port (Euboea) and then take a ferry to Skyros:
   • Kymi is around 2.5 to 3 hours drive from Athens. KTEL buses operate services from Athens to Kymi. The bus ride takes around 3.5 hours.
   • Then take the ferry from Kymi to Skyros for about 1,5 hrs. The main ferry service to Skyros is operated by Skyros Shipping Co.
   • Ferries operate regularly, but schedules can vary depending on the season. It’s advisable to check the current timetable in advance. You can book your tickets here and support my blog!
2. From Other Sporades Islands:
   • In the summer, there are sometimes ferry connections between Skyros and other Sporades islands like Skiathos, Skopelos, and Alonissos. These connections may not be as frequent, so planning ahead is essential.

By air:

1. From Athens or other areas in Greece (or abroad with charter flights) to Skyros Island National Airport:
   • Sky Express operates flights from Athens International Airport to Skyros. The flight duration is approximately 40 minutes.
   • Flights are more frequent during the tourist season (spring to autumn) and less so in the off-season.

DURATION

For a well-rounded experience of Skyros Island, a stay of 4 to 5 days is generally sufficient. This allows you to explore the main attractions, relax on the beaches, and immerse yourself in the local culture without feeling rushed. Angel’s tip: I stayed 4 days but I needed at least one more since one day was the day trip to Sarakino islet(that was perfect!!!)

ACCOMMODATION

Skyros offers a variety of accommodation options across its main areas, each with its own unique charm and advantages. If you have a car, you don’t have to worry as distances are small in general. I recommend staying either in Skyros town (Chora) or Molos where I did and it was very convenient and close to Chora which is the main village and nightlife spot.

CAR

A car is essential on Skyros Greek island ! The island is big with many amazing places to explore, and public transportation is limited.

MUST DO

1.Stroll around the Chora (Skyros town) which reminds you Cyclades island complex while you are in Sporades! It is the main town, perched on a hill, is a picturesque blend of narrow streets, white-washed houses, and traditional architecture. You can enjoy spectacular views of the Aegean Sea. Angel’s tip: Enjoy the view from Brook’s square in Chora that offers a view of Molos.

2.Climb to the Monastery and the castle of Chora. The Castle of Skyros, is a notable historical site and offers breathtaking views over the island & the Aegean Sea. It is perched on a hill above the main town (Chora) and provides a glimpse into the island’s rich history, with ruins and remnants from various periods, including Byzantine and Venetian influences.Adjacent to the castle, there is a monastery called the Monastery of Agios Georgios (Saint George). This monastery is well worth a visit for its serene atmosphere, religious significance, and the stunning views it offers of the surrounding landscape. The combination of the historical castle and the monastery makes this site a captivating destination for visitors to Skyros. Angel’s tip: Entrance is free and it is open daily till 20:00 pm.

3.Have a day trip to Sarakino(or Sarakiniko) islet south of Skyros island! It promises a serene escape into natural beauty and tranquility. Nestled amidst stunning rocky landscapes and clear turquoise waters, Sarakino offers ideal conditions for swimming and snorkeling, allowing you to explore the vibrant underwater world. To reach Sarakino, consider taking a boat from Peukos beach, where you can admire the scenic coastline en route.

You have 2 options and boats : “Ydrovatis” and “Apollon”. With 25 euros per person for 6-7 hrs , you can spend the whole day in the Blue cave and Sarakino islet with its crystal clear magical waters. Reservation: +302222093100 // +306945496000. Sarakino promises a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation, making it an essential destination for visitors seeking to immerse themselves in the island’s natural beauty and peaceful surroundings.

4. Visit a farm with Skyrian Horses like Mouries farm. The Skyrian horse is an ancient Greek breed which survived only in Skyros Greek island! Quite popular & unfortunately under threat of extinction! They are known for their small stature & considered one of the rarest & oldest breeds in the world, with a history that dates back to ancient times.Efforts have been made to preserve this rare breed due to its cultural and historical significance to Skyros. Only 300 horses remain in the world now. Due to its height, the Skyrian horse is often classified as a pony, as ponies typically reach heights of up to 1.55 meters. However, the anatomy of its body resembles that of a horse, making the Skyrian horse truly one-of-a-kind. Skyrian horses are usually around 1.10 meters in height and have long, thick manes, a distinctive body type, and a calm nature, which makes them very friendly to people. These qualities make the Skyrian horse ideal for children’s activities and hippotherapy sessions.They constitute an important part of the island’s tradition; their participation in social and economic life in Skyros was crucial, as horses were integral to agriculture for decades. Angel’s tip:  You can become a volunteer , adopt a horse or just support the breed here: https://www.skyrian-horses.org/en/support.html#intro

BEACHES

Skyros boasts several beautiful beaches which offer clear turquoise waters and scenic views.

• Agalipa beach with a bit difficult access. You can either drive & then 30 minutes hiking or by boat “Lycomidis” from Kyra Panagia beach. Telephone to book: +306973006655.
• Agios Petros beach with the famous must-eat restaurant with same name.
• Magazia beach with the Juicy beach bar.
• Molos next to Magazia(actually same beach) with Kavoures beach bar, a long, sandy beach with clear waters and great views of Chora.
• Gyrismata close to Molos with a few sunbeds and umbrellas but not protected by the winds.
• Acherounes, a more tranquil spot with shallow waters, great for families. It is close to the port Linaria with a restaurant & a beach bar.
• Peukos with a small beach bar & a few sunbeds/umbrellas.
• Kyra Panagia with the beach bar «COOC – NARA».
• Kalamitsa with both sand and pebbles
• Pouria beach with the gorgeous small churches & Anemomylos restaurant bar.
• Atsitsa, known for its natural beauty & watersports, including windsurfing.
• Agios Fokas, a picturesque beach with pebbles and a serene atmosphere. You can find a beach bar & a restaurant.
• Aspous beach, 5 km south of Skyros town.

FOOD

The island has delicious localcuisine. Experience the rich flavors of authentic Greek cuisine, with fresh seafood, traditional dishes, and local specialties that will delight your taste buds. Below are some recommendations for restaurants you can go in Skyros:

For meat:

• Agios Petros restaurant in Agios Petros beach, try ladopita!
• Mouries in Kalamitsa for excellent local food, try the baby goat with lemon sauce.
• Barba Giannis & Maritsa in Chora
• To Goniako kafeneio in Chora for small platess
• Manolia Greek restaurant
• Labros in Aspous

For seafood:

• Stelios in Gyrismata for lobster, Asimenos in Aspous for lobster pasta.
• Apanema in Acherounes beach
• Psariotis in Linaria
• Stefanos in Molos
• Stamatia in Peukos and O pappous mou & ego for both meat & seafood dishes.

Angel’s tip: Don’t go to “Oi istories tou Barba” in Molos, all my friends(11 people) and me regretted eating there due to bad quality and taste, while the spot was magnificent!

Other options:

• Villagio for delicious Italian food
• Visit Faltaena’s & Chiotis in Chora for ice cream.

Street food in:

• Manita in Chora
• Mitsos for bougatsa & cheese pie! So authentic and spot for locals!!

NIGHTLIFE

• Anemomylos in Molos during sunset. I went at night that was great too but earlier would be awesome!
• it’s worth visiting the fishing village of Atsitsa and sitting for the sunset at Sunset By Utopia bar
• Agora in Chora for drinks with a view in the rooftop
• Akamatra in Chora
• Oino for great cocktails in Chora
• Aegioris for drinks with a view.
• Meltemi in Linaria.
• Paradise beach bar for more relaxed nights by the waves in Aspous.
• Kavos in Linaria for coffee/drinks and amazing views.

THINGS TO KNOW

1.The view from Agios Panteleimonas, a small church on the way to Pefkos beach, is magical.

2. The island is known for its local crafts, particularly the production of traditional wooden furniture and ceramics. Support local community by buying traditional Crafts.

3.Skyros has a rich history with several archaeological sites like the ancient ruins at Palamari, apart from the castle.

4.Skyros has vibrant local traditions, including the famous Skyrian Carnival with its unique customs and lively celebrations.

5. The Ethnological and Folklore Museum of Manos and Anastasia Faltaits is a significant cultural and historical institution that provides visitors with a deep insight into the island’s rich heritage.It showcases the island’s rich heritage through a diverse collection of artifacts, including traditional costumes, textiles, handcrafted furniture, agricultural tools, and religious icons. Set in a traditional Skyrian mansion, the museum offers an authentic glimpse into local customs and everyday life. Visitors can also explore works by Manos Faltaits, such as paintings and literary manuscripts. Located in the heart of Chora, it’s a must-visit for those interested in the cultural and historical depth of Skyros Island.

6. One of the most impressive churches on the island is Agios Nikolaos church in Pouria. This early Christian period church, built into the rock, features traditional Greek Orthodox architecture. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views and explore nearby attractions such as the ancient quarry. Accessible by a short drive or walk, it’s best visited in the early morning or late afternoon for optimal light and cooler temperatures (not like me :P). The church offers a unique blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and tranquility.

*Check my Instagram highlight and posts for more*

IG: angeliki.a_