The northern coastline remains virtually untouched; a visit to the northern beaches, below beautiful valleys of pines, by private boat will reward the more adventurous with clear waters and privacy.
Alternatively, the tiny island of Tsougria off the southern coast can be reached by caïque in fifteen minutes from Skiathos harbour and offers a selection of sandy beaches. Skiathos Town is the only town on the island; a drive to the interior of Skiathos allows one to find small hamlets hidden amongst pine forests and ornate churches.
If you want them, the coast road offers easy access to small pockets of holiday resort trappings: large sandy beaches with sun loungers and umbrellas; watersports and scuba-diving clubs; tavernas and bars; impromptu shops selling beach balls and Kodak film; supermarkets and scooter hire.
We have chosen a small selection of villas, which are close to the beaches but which offer peace and privacy in their seclusion away from the busier resorts. Most of our villas include free car hire for ease of access to shops, tavernas and beaches.
Skiathos will appeal to those who want sandy beaches. Small caïques depart every morning from the harbour of Skiathos Town for the more popular beaches. If you hire your own boat with outboard engine, however, you will have a private choice of deserted beaches even in the busiest months of July and August.
Skiathos continues to attract many visitors who look for good, safe bathing and a variety of activities in which to partake.
Skiathos Town Most of the island’s population of about 5,000 live in Skiathos Town. A busy high street of shops and bars opens out onto a waterfront which flanks two sides of the town. On the pedestrianised side the waterfront bars face bobbing caïques, painted in rich colours, and yachts from all nations; evenings attract fashion conscious strollers; soft music varies from Greek to classical, soul and jazz; northern European accents mingle with southern. From the waterfront, narrow flagstoned sidestreets of jewellery shops rise to an area devoted to tavernas and restaurants. The choice and standard of dining is excellent. The old town of Skiathos, on the hilltop above the harbour, only dates back to 1830 when the islanders felt safe against pirates to move their capital from the secluded northern cliff tops to its present location. The old town, with its cobblestone streets, whitewashed houses and churches and planted courtyards, offers a peaceful sense of detachment.
