Skopelos holidays

Holidays to Skopelos are snapped up by those looking for an authentic and sun-soaked slice of life on Greece...

Scenic and considered as one of the most beautiful Greek Islands, it is easy to see why visitors love it. Holidays in Skopelos town are particularly popular. Thanks to its status as an area of Outstanding Architectural Inheritance, the town retains much of its traditional charm.

The great thing about Skopelos town holidays is that you are not just limited to the town. The island is small and it’s easy to get to beaches and other places of interest. Skopelos town is easily reached by ferry from nearby Skiathos, though there are other options.

Arranged on hills around the harbour, Skopelos town is an attraction in itself. There are lots of churches to explore in the cobbled maze of streets in the main town. Also in Skopelos town is the Folklore Museum, with some interesting handicraft exhibits. Another fascinating sight is the Evangelistria Monastery, which overlooks the town. Founded in the 17th century it’s still home to nuns who welcome visitors wishing to see some impressive icons.

Clearly, any holidays in Skopelos town will also include time on the beach, and there are several beaches nearby. Stafilos beach is good for sunbathing and is around five miles from the town, offering clear, blue water. The facilities around here are quite basic with just a couple of small taverns and a cafe.

Further away are other lovely places. The resorts of Angontas and Limonari, for example, are worth visiting. Limonari is really only accessible by boat, but this helps to keep it secluded. Around 16 miles from Skopelos town is the pretty harbour of Glossa. The rocky beach is attractive and the 45 minute drive from Skopelos is lovely, too, as it goes through mountainous areas. The whole area around Glossa is relatively undeveloped, so it is generally a peaceful place.

All around the island are fascinating historical remains. The island's oldest settlement is Peparethos, with its Venetian fortress. The fortress can be seen from anywhere in the town and is a popular tourist sight.

If you are planning a trip to Skopelos this year and need some help, read our fact file below and use TravelSupermarket`s search tool to find the cheapest deals.

Figure out the ideal time of year to take your Skopelos holidays with the aid of our climate guide...

Like most Greek islands, Skopelos is mostly visited during the summer months, although thanks to its overall mild climate, Skopelos town holidays are possible year round.

The summer temperatures are generally in the region of 30C, but it does sometimes get hotter. During the rest of the year the temperature rarely falls below 20C so it’s ideal for a winter break, too. It does rain more often than other places in Greece, but it’s not excessive.

Easy-going Skopelos isn’t the place to party all night neither does it have a full events calendar. There are a few events of note...

Saint Reginos festival; February 25: February is the time of year when the patron saint of the island is celebrated but there are many religious festivals throughout the year, which are generally colourful, lively occasions. Traditional dance, music and food are all part of the festivities. At this particular event people from across the islands meet at the Monastery of Saint Reginos in Skopelos and some say that the saint often performs miracles.

Skopelos Music Festival; May-June: Held for the first time in 2013 and riding on the back of the success of Mamma Mia!, which was filmed on the island, this feast of music enjoys a wonderful setting in the town.

Cultural events at the Bourtzi; summer: Hop on the boat to Skiathos and check out one of the arts and culture events at this spectacular Venetian fortress. Back on Skopelos, there’s usually a photographic exhibition held on the island in July, so it could well coincide with your holiday.