Tucked away in the north-west corner of the Aegean Sea, the islands of the Sporades archipelago were, till about three decades ago, quiet, rural and more or less unknown to the outside world. But- tourists go `where no man has ever gone before’, and the Sporades today are among Greece’s more popular destinations.

The largest of the islands, Skiathos, is, more than the rest, all the rage. With its 60-odd beaches, its cool pine woods, its waterfront citadel, trendy bars and excellent restaurants, Skiathos pulls in more and more tourists every year.

What is a bit disappointing is that the place is getting increasingly commercial, crass and overcrowded with every passing year.  For the sun-worshipping segment, which comprises the bulk of Skiathos’ visitors, the island’s beaches are the biggest attraction. Although the best-known, and most hyped, is Koukounaries, there are others- including Vromolimnos, Koulos and Platanias - which are relatively uncrowded and nice. 

If you find yourself yearning for more hardcore sightseeing, take yourself off to the local Bourtzi fortress, or the old citadel, the Kastro, which lies in the north-eastern corner of the island. Established in the 16^th century, the fortress was later abandoned; today all that remains of it includes three churches, still decorated with ceramic tiles and faded frescoes. Closer to Skiathos are the two monasteries of Mona Evangelistrias and Panayia Kounistria.  The former, a beautifully restored 18^th century edifice, has the more prominent icons and architecture, but the latter is about a century older and contains some good icons.

Also on Skiathos is the former house of the famous Greek writer, Alexandros Papadiamandis. Much revered in his native land, Papadiamandis was born on Skiathos, and Papadiamandis House in Skiathos Town, has carefully preserved many of his personal possessions.

Olympic Airways operates daily flights to Skiathos from Athens; during the peak season there are as many as five flights a day. Chartered flights from a number of European cities- especially in Scandinavia- also come in regularly at the airport. Local ferries and hydrofoils arrive at Skiathos from Ayios Konstandinos (a 3 hour drive from Athens); from Volos, Thessaloniki and the other Sporades Islands.

Most of the tourist accommodation on the island is concentrated in Skiathos Town, where there are luxury hotels, beach resorts, villas and inns aplenty. Whether you plan to stay in one of these, or hire one of the private rooms available, it’s advisable to book accommodation in advance- particularly between June and September.

There is a local tourist information counter at the local harbour, along the western corner; besides that, the city’s teeming with private tour operators and travel agents who can provide information. The tourist police can be contacted at 0427-21111 for help.

For detailed country and visitor information, see Greece.