SPORADES ISLANDS

The Sporades lie to the North and east of Evia and the east and southeast of the Penlion Peninsula, to which they were joined in prehistoric times. With their dense vegetation and mountainous terrain, they seem like a continuation of this peninsula. The name the Sporades means ‘scattered ones’. There are 24 islands in the archipelago, four of which are inhabited: Skiathos, Skopelos, Alonissos, and Skyros. The first two have a highly developed tourist industry, whereas Alonissos and Skyros are far less visited, and herewith retain a more local and pure character. With their history and sites, marvelous golden beaches, and crystal-clear blue waters they are the perfect spot for discovery and relaxation.

ALONISSOS
Alonissos is a green island with pine and oak trees, mastic and arbutus bushes, and fruit trees. The west coast is mostly precipitous cliffs but the east coast is speckled with pebbled beaches around Kalamakia and Steni Vala. The water around Alonissos has been declared a Marine Park and is the cleanest in the Aegean. Its prime aim was the protection of endangered Mediterranean monk seals, but also the preservation of other rare plants and animal species threatened with extinction. Alonissos is surrounded by eight uninhabited islets, all of which have rich flora and fauna. The island is recommendable for hikers and snorkeling and diving lovers.

KYRA PANAGIA
Kyra Panagia also called Pelagonisi, is the largest of the uninhabited islands of the Sporades with two natural harbors Agios Petros and Planitis. This beautiful island was named after the Monastery of Kyra Panagia located on the east coast of the island. The Byzantine Monastery dating from the 16th-century lies on top of a hill with an amazing view. Within the walls of the Monastery is a church located dedicated to the Virgin Mary where also the remains of an old olive oil press and flour mill can be seen. Kyra Panagia is part of the Natural Park of Alonissos and has a coastline of tall rocky cliffs and low rolling hills. To enjoy nature and its tranquility, Kyra Panagia is a hidden gem of the Sporades.

SKIATHOS
Skiathos coast is covered with pine trees and blessed with exquisite beaches of golden sand. The island has only one settlement the port, and the capital of Skiathos Town on the southeast coast. Most people come to the island for the beaches and nightlife but the truly curious will discover some picturesque walks, hidden valleys, and even quiet beaches. Skiathos was the birthplace of the well-known Greek poet Alexandros Papadiamantis and novelist Alexandros Moraitidis. Papadiamantis house is now a museum. The Evangelistria Monastery, Agios Nikolaos Church and Clock Tower, Kastro, and Skiathos Old Town are ideal for history seekers. Windsurfing, diving, and water sports activities are offered everywhere.

SKOPELOS
Skopelos is a beautiful island. It is heavily pine-forested and has vineyards, olive groves, and fruit orchards. It is noted for its plums and almonds, which are used in many local dishes. Even though Skopelos is a small island there are around 300 churches, chapels, and monasteries. There are two large settlements: the capital and main port of Skopelos Town on the east coast and the lovely unspoiled hill village of Glossa, the island’s second port. Skopelos Town is one of the most captivating towns in the Sporades. The Venetian Castle of Skopelos can be visited but not much is left apart from the walls. The amazing scenery will be more satisfying with a view over the town and Mount Palouki.

SKYROS
Skyros is some distance from the rest of the group and differs topographically. The island reminds you more of the Cyclades than the Sporades. Almost bisected its northern half has rolling, cultivated hills and pine forests, but the largely uninhabited South is barren and rocky. The wild Skyrian pony is a breed unique to Skyros. The ponies used to roam freely but are now almost extinct. Skyros Town has two museums: the Archaeological Museum and the Faltaits Museum. The Byzantine Castle, Monastery of Agios Georgios, Church of Agios Nikolaos, the ancient site of Palamari, and the Grave of Rupert Brooke (famous poet) are a few of the sites you can visit on Skyros.