Situated in the Northern Sporades, between Skiathos & Alonnissos, Skopelos is 13 miles or 21 kilometers long and at its widest, 5 miles or 8 kilometers across.
The Green and Blue Paradise
Skopelos is known to Greeks as the island of green and blue because of the forests that cover much of the island, coming right down to the waters edge. It is a very popular destination for holidaymakers from mainland Greece who come to see the unspoiled nature of the island and its two main towns, Skopelos town in the south, and Glossa in the north.
These are beautiful places in their own right with meandering lanes crowded with overhanging houses with traditional local architectural features such as wooden balconies. There are literally hundreds of small churches and chapels many with the traditional slate roofs.
Skopelos Town also boasts its paralia, or waterfront, which is traffic free and lively in summer evenings with families taking a stroll (or volta in Greek), horses and carriages and other activities amongst the cafes, bars and restaurants.
Glossa is much quieter but is equally beautiful and although its elevated position means it has no paralia it makes up for it with an unsurpassed view across to Skiathos, Evia and the Pelion peninsula which at sunset provides a spectacular picture.
The beaches which circle the island are also a major attraction to visitors from all countries. There is every kind of beach, from bustling, lively, family beaches to quiet, forgotten coves.
Getting to the island is usually by flights to Skiathos direct from the UK and Italy in the summer months or by connections through Athens or Thessalonika. Once on the island travel is easy as there is an excellent bus service, car hire, motorbikes, push bikes, taxis and of course, boats.
Getting around in Skopelos
Car & Bike Hire
The best way to see the island is certainly to have your own vehicle – whether this is a car or a motor bike. In this way you will be able to get off the beaten track and explore the beautiful interior of the island, where a well developed net of both paved and dirt roads cover most of the area.
The nature and landscape of Skopelos is truly breathtaking and with every turn a new fantastic view will reveal itself. Driving on the island is fairly simple and although a 4×4 might be preferable for the more rugged dirt tracks one can get very far with a normal car.
Another good reason for having your own means of transport is that many of the most natural and untouched beaches are located on the Northern side of the island and so are not reachable by bus. And even for the locations on the main bus route – who wants to be depending on timetables and a sometimes crowded bus while on holiday?
We, at Dolphin of Skopelos, co-operate with Moto Center which is a small local car rental office. We have found that they offer the best value for money combined with excellent service. Book now with Moto Center
Local Bus
Skopelos has a main road leading from Skopelos Town to the villages of Glossa and Loutraki at the other end. This road is approximately 35km in total and winds its way along the South side of the island, passing the villages and many of the best beaches.
The local bus services this route and will make stops at each beach and village along the way. You will find the main bus stop as well as the timetable close to the port of Skopelos.
Taxis
Taxi station is next to the main port of Skopelos and you will also find taxi stands in Elios and Glossa. The taxis have fixed prices so you can always ask about the price before the trip.
Motor Boat Hire
Another great way to see the island is from the outside. Rent a small motor boat which is available without licence – and choose your own little cove for your picnic or lazy day at the beach. Many of the small beaches are only accessible from the sea and the coastline is stunning. Talk to your representative for bookings.