All you need to know about Skyros island!
Skyros is arguably the least popular of the Sporadic islands but it is therefore one of the most unspoiled and stunning. Untouched by tourism development, this island boasts secluded beaches, traditional architecture and dazzling hiking trails. This island is the perfect place to absorb the island’s nature and enjoy some calm.
Welcome to Skyros
Beaches
The beaches of Skyros are unspoiled natural wonders. Each bay boasts lush vegetation, azure waters and blonde sands. Due to their seclusion the beaches lack in facilities, but this is what makes their ambience so calming.
Molos: The most touristic beach is that of Molos, found just 4km from Skyros town. It’s long blonde bay is lined with hotels, bars, tavernas and shops. It’s rich blue waters are perfect for swimming.
Atsitsa: This beach is popular with the locals due to it’s natural scenery. There is no sand, but instead a grassy bay with a pebbled shoreline. The bay’s emerald waters are engulfed in dense vegetation and provide great conditions for swimming and snorkeling. There is a beachside taverna that offers bar snacks and drinks.
Perfkos: This blonde bay with teal waters is dotted with beautiful greenery. It’s seclusion and lack of facilities is what preserves the tranquility of the bay.
Theotokos: This cove is surrounded by mountainous terrain and a rocky seabed that together create a very unique spot to relax in. It’s small blonde beach and azure waters are great for swimming and snorkeling.
Palamari: This spectacular beach is known to have been a prehistoric settlement. It is located 13km from Chora and possesses golden sands and crystal clear waters.
Acherounes: This beach offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and is the perfect spot to watch the sun set. It’s soft sands are dotted with lush pine trees and it’s calm waters great for leisurely swimming. Cafes and beachside bars are available.
Sightseeing
Byzantine Castle: On the highest point of the island’s main town, Chora, stands a simple yet strong Byzantine castle. It’s location offers fantastic panoramic views of the island.
Monastery of Agios Georgios: Inside the Byzantine castle located in Chora lies the Monastery of Agios Georgios. Built around the 13th century, this well preserved landmark is decorated with large bells and pretty flowers.
Church of Agios Nikolaos: On the northern edge of Skyros, in the town of Molos stands the remains of an old castle carved out of rock.
Prehistoric Palamari: On the northern part of the island is the prehistoric settlement of Palamari. It is considered to be one of the most important Neolithic settlements of the Aegean. Findings from excavations of the area are displayed in the island’s archaeological museum.
Faltaits Folklore Museum: The Faltaits Folklore Museum is located in Chora and was established in 1964. It exhibits the island’s: historical archives, statues, ceramics, paintings, maps, manuscripts, costumes and other objects depicting the history of Skyros.
Church of Agios Panteleimon: The whitewashed church of Agios Panteleimon is located on the highest cliff in the town of Palamari and offers spectacular views.
Skyros Archeological Museum: The island’s archaeological museum displays artifacts found during excavations of the island. Built in 1967, some of the most remarkable finds include pottery, jewelry and ancient tools.
Local cuisine
Local products of the island include: Feta, Graveria and Mizithra cheese, olives, wild honey and local wine.
Speciality dishes include: Spaghetti with lobster, goat in the oven, oil pie and the island’s renowned desserts of Tiganites (doughnut balls) and Kydonopasto (jelly made of quince fruit).
Events and festivals
Due to the island’s lack of touristic development, there are not many cultural events taking place on the island. However, like most Greek islands, religious festivals are customary and are celebrated with traditional music, dancing and lots of food and local wine.
Easter: The Carnival of Skyros- This carnival consists of parades, open air performances and cultural feasts.
June: The Skyrian horse festival- This festival honors the rarest and oldest breed of horse, the Skyrian horse, that is native to the island.
Summer: The Festival of Skyros- This festival consists of many theatrical plays, photography exhibitions, dance performances and musical concerts.
July 26th: The Feast of Agios Ermolaos September 2nd: The Feast of Agios Mammas
