Skopelos is an idyllic Greek island in the western Aegean Sea and boasts some of the most beautiful landscapes you’ll find in the Sporades archipelago. Vast cliff faces line shores of azure waters and whitewashed towns perch along the glistening sands. There are endless things to enjoy on a holiday here, and we’ve lined up some of the best things to add to your to-do list while visiting…

Visit local beaches

Skopelos is known for its impeccable Aegean waters and picture-perfect beaches, so you won’t be short of sandy shores to choose from. Three of the top picks for the cleanest sands and clearest waters are Agnontas, Stafilos and Panormos. Panormos is the ideal place to head to if you're after a calm cove with twinkling waters. It’s a scenic drive to reach this piece of coastline, located 12km northwest of Skopelos, but the panoramas along the way are sublime. Stafilos Beach is the closest to the main town and one of the most beautiful beaches in Skopelos. Found in the south, it’s one of the more popular patches, thanks to its pristine shores and cliff-covered landscape. Or for a smaller stretch of coastline, dotted with pebbles and boasting lush greenery, head to Agnontas Beach. There’s a lovely buzz here in the summer, with small fishing boats and yachts moored in the port. It’s a little piece of paradise in southern Skopelos.

Adventure to Cape Amarandos

Cape Amarandos has become one of the island’s staple attractions. This rocky cape located on the southwest coast can be visited alongside Agnontas Beach. You can get to the edge of the cape by vehicle, then a short walk through the trees will reveal the rocky expanse and the vast Aegean. The coves here boast some of the clearest waters and views of gorgeous greenery and towering trees. It’s easy to see why picnicking here is a big hit with visitors, throw a towel down and look out at the mesmerising scenery while having a bite to eat.

Explore colourful Skopelos Town

Skopelos Town, often known as Chora, is a colourful oasis to explore during your stay. You’ll find hidden gems such as tiny churches, a Venetian fortress and a Byzantine castle as you explore. There are approximately 40 different chapels located across the island, so keep your eye out for the whitewashed domes. Cobbled, narrow streets cover Skopelos Town, so you’ll have endless Instagrammable spots to find. When you're ready for a rest, take your pick from traditional restaurants or cosy cafés for a morning espresso or an afternoon rosé. You can really appreciate the town’s beauty at the old harbour, too. Look up and you’ll see colourful window shutters, pastel coloured door fronts and the labyrinth of alleys that wind endlessly to the top of the town.

Delve into Skopelos’ monastic history

When visiting Skopelos, take the opportunity to delve into the important monastic history of the town. The island’s religious roots can be uncovered across the 14 monasteries. Perched on top of the slopes of Mount Palouki, you’ll find the Holy Monastery of Evangelistria, with its fortress-like architecture and pretty terracotta-tiled dome. From here, you’ll be provided with breathtaking coastal vistas, so it’s well worth a visit! You’ll also find the Timios Prodromos Monastery on Mount Palouki. Its unique, pale blue dome can be spotted from across the mountain and as you approach, you’ll see the wood-carved temple that stands proud on the mountainside.

Try the local cuisine

The Greek cuisine is a real highlight when visiting Skopelos. From cheese pies to slow-cooked pork and homemade walnut ice cream, foodies will be in heaven! You’ll find all the Greek greats you could wish for, like hearty moussaka and sizzling souvlaki, but delving into the regional cuisine will make you feel like a real local. Try seafood like octopus or shellfish in a seaside taverna or pick up a goat’s cheese and plum pie from a patisserie. Other must-try treats include hamalia, an almond-based dessert, the plum reserve avgato, which is produced on the island and the marzipan cookies, amygdalota.

Visit Agios Ioannis

Those who have seen the blockbuster hit Mamma Mia! will recognise the chapel of Agios Ioannis in an instant. This is one of the most iconic locations on the island and is a must visit whether you’re a Mamma Mia! fan or not! The chapel perches high on the rocks, 100m above the sea, so come prepared to climb the winding stairs to reach the top. But you’ll be well rewarded with astounding sights of Skopelos and Alonissos. The beach at Agios Ioannis is gifted with tranquil, turquoise waters and an expanse of greenery which stretches to the shoreline, something you can properly appreciate from the heights of the chapel. The beach itself stays relatively quiet, making it an ideal spot for a cooling dip after your hike.