A first timer’s guide to visiting the island set of Mamma Mia, and exploring the oases of the Sporadic Islands. Skopelos’ best spots for sustenance, sea and sunsets.
LOGISTICS
GETTING THERE:
While Skopelos is quite a popular destination, unlike majority of the islands, it’s relatively harder to get to as there are no direct ferries or flights (from Athens). Here are some of the possible routes:
- Fly to Skiathos, and ferry across to Skopelos.
- Drive to Volos, and take the ferry from the Agios Konstantinos or Volos town port. During summer, there are some extra ferry routes from Kymi, Evia to Skopelos. Be sure to check which of the ferries can accommodate cars across, and which of the ports in Skopelos you are travelling to/from.
To book your ferry, use Ferryhopper:
GETTING AROUND:
It’s a beautiful island with quite a few hidden beaches and coves. For the freedom to explore the gems of the island, it is advisable to rent a car or bike (dependent o group size and budget).
However, to add a unique and different perspective, consider renting a boat and looping the island for a day (more information below).
WHERE TO STAY:
To be honest, we were a large group and did not pre-book accommodation. As a result, we stayed in an older hotel by the port. My recommendation would be to stay in one of the port towns, and to set aside budget for a car or bike, in order to explore the full island for the day, and enjoy the life and buzz of the town at night.
HOW LONG TO STAY FOR:
Based on the type of holiday you would like, and the further ‘distance’ from other beautiful destinations, I would recommend 5 nights in Skopelos. This should give you enough time to relax, explore the hidden beaches and fit in a day trip to Skiathos or Alonissos.
EAT
Kochilis Cafe, bakery
If you’re looking for a quick take-away or on-the-go breakfast, this patisserie has some great fresh bakes. It’s right in the centre of the coastal strip in the town and has a seating area outside. Cannot specifically recommended an item because of the gluten-free thing, but they had some convenient and fresh items (like fruit and greek yogurt).
Anatoli, open-air restaurant
Admittedly, we didn’t eat here – only rehydrated. But this spot offers some of the most incredible views from the top of the town. It has a great buzz and the staff were quite friendly too. It is quite a walk up – but well worth the trek (and you pass some beautiful churches and views along the way).
Alexander, taverna
A little but further up from the town you’ll find a court yard restaurant. While it seems quite lowkey, the fish we had here was amazing (freshly caught) and was shared along with other meze (small plates). For a taverna experience, it was one of the better places in the island’s town.
Rosemary, taverna
Stumbled upon this place by chance and had the owner sit with us – lovely alternative for a traditional and authentic breakfast. He makes great food and especially delicious traditional cheese pastries (see above) and cheesecake.
Skala, bar
Located in the main town, the elevated and open air bar is a great place to look over the port and enjoy some sundowners. There are +2 seating areas at different levels but the whole spot is a great place to spend an evening. Ask to try one of their signature drinks.
Pablos, bar
Another little bar in the main town – this was a one man show with the owner playing music (some GREAT tracks) and making the cocktails between waitering (respect). But it had a really nice mood – maybe just a combo for the company and orders.
EXPLORE
Boat tour from Neo Klima
My starting suggestion is to either rent a car / organize a boat tour. It allows you to find all the landmark ‘mamma mia’ spots* and the smaller rugged beaches (that don’t have a location pin for me to share with you). A half day trip allows you to see the beauty of the island from the coast, and to enjoy some time at various beaches. I highly suggest you pack some snacks and water, and prep a playlist for the ride too. Best experience on the island! * listed some below
🛥️: Wind Boat (+30 697 729 6448)
- Kastani, mamma mia beach
- Agios Ioannis, mamma mia church
Hovolo, beach
A beautiful long white beach hugged in pine trees. It’s an organized beach with access via stairs from the parking area by the taverna (very good food and beautiful view too!). We also snorkelled and found an octopus quite close to the shore!
Leave a Reply