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Skiathos

Skiathos gave birth to two famous writers, Alexandros Papadiamantis (1851-1911) and Alexandros Moraitidis (1851-1929).

The island's capital and main harbour, Skiathos or Chora, lies in a declinity on the south-east coast, with densely wooded hills rising behind it. This is the site of the ancient city, which was deserted in the middle ages. The picturesque pine-clad fortress-islet of Bourtzi (Tourist Pavilion), adorned below the Gymnasion with an ancient cannon, is reached by causeway and affords a fine view of the harbour. In the upper town is the Cathedral of Tris Ierarkhes.

Luxury hotels started looming gradually on its lovely beaches and tourism grew steadily. Transport to the island was facilitated. Before long, Skiathos was one of Greece's most cosmopolitan islands. Each year, Skiathos attracts more and more visitors, including many with a passion for diving. Life on Skiathos has changed dramatically since its discovery to the touristic world, but its celebrated beaches have remained beautiful and the lanes in the Chora continue to be picturesque.

The first modern visitors who saw the island were awestricken at how such a small place could possibly hide so many varieties of beauties, such as the beach of Koukounaries with its golden sand, exotic Mandraki with its sand dunes, Lalaria with its round pebbles and natural rock bridge over the sea, and Tsougnia the charming neighbouring islet, which are all worth visiting.

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