The islands of the Sporades complex
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Indulge in breathtaking sunsets, dive into crystal-clear waters and let the Aegean winds guide you to hidden coves and vibrant local cultures. Every moment is an opportunity to create memories that last a lifetime .
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The Aegean Sea, a treasure trove of beauty, culture, and history, is home to the stunning Sporades islands. Each island offers a unique blend of breathtaking landscapes, pristine beaches, and rich Greek tradition. From Skiathos to Skopelos and Alonnisos, the Sporades are a perfect destination for those seeking to explore the quintessence of Greek island life....
Sporades Islands
Sporades Islands
They consist of 24 islands, four of which are permanently inhabited: Alonnisos, Skiathos, Skopelos and Skyros. A distinctive feature of the islands is the magnificent beaches with lush vegetation that often reaches the shores, contrasting with most other islands of the Aegean Sea.
Different Greek Recipes
gastronomy dream
The gastronomic delights of the islands have always been and continue to be exceptional. In the past, fishermen exchanged the treasures of the sea for vegetables and the olive oil of farmers. This exchange of products created a flavorful cuisine based on seafood and wild greens.
Different Beaches
Excellent Beaches
Many of the beaches boast the blue flag of the EU, confirming that they are among the cleanest in Europe. Excellent for sailing as it features numerous protected coves and a sanctuary for various protected species (like Monachus monachus). It’s worth visiting on a day trip.
A Canvas of Blue and Green
The Northern Sporades
North Sporades islands are popular travel destinations and they belong to some of the most beautiful and enchanting Aegean islands. Unseen natural beauties charm every visitor. Endless green landscapes and lacy idyllic shores create unique pictures, beyond every imagination.The major islands—Skiathos, Skopelos, Alonissos, and Skyros—are scattered gems in the central Aegean, each telling its own story of beauty and tradition.
Where Forest Meets Golden Beaches
Skiathos
Skiathos is a small island where dense, lush forests meet golden sandy beaches, boasting more than 60 stunning shorelines. Despite its modest size, it attracts thousands of visitors annually with its vibrant nightlife and romantic town atmosphere, making it one of Greece’s most beautiful islands. Skiathos, the most cosmopolitan island in the Northern Sporades, is truly a paradise on earth, with lush pine forests and crystal-clear azure waters. The island is picturesque, unspoilt and blessed with more than 60 beautifully crystal clear waters and beaches.
Green and Blue in Perfect Harmony
Skopelos
Skopelos is a haven of natural beauty where verdant greenery blends seamlessly with the deep blue sea. Known for its role in the movie Mamma Mia, this island offers enchanting hiking trails, traditional villages, picturesque harbors, and dreamy beaches. Skopelos Town, with its cobblestone streets and well-kept houses adorned with blooming courtyards, has been declared a traditional settlement, maintaining its status as one of the most picturesque spots in the region.
A Paradise for Nature Lovers
Alonissos
Praised by Le Figaro and Die Welt as a haven for nature enthusiasts and the top emerging Greek destination of 2024, Alonissos offers unspoiled beauty that captivates the soul. Its National Marine Park, a sanctuary for the Mediterranean monk seal and diverse marine life, provides unparalleled diving opportunities. Above water, the island's pine forests, charming villages, and enchanting homes invite exploration, making it a true paradise for those seeking tranquility and connection with nature.
The Island of Contrasts
Skyros
Skyros, the southernmost and largest island of the Sporades, is a land of striking contrasts. The northern part is lush and forested, while the southern boasts rugged, barren landscapes. The capital, Chora, built amphitheatrically under the shadow of a medieval castle and the Byzantine Monastery of Saint George, offers a glimpse into traditional Skyrian life. In the wild southern terrain, the rare Skyrian horses roam freely, embodying the untamed spirit of the island.
Sporades islands
GEOGRAPHY & HISTORY
"The light of Greece opened my eyes, penetrated my pores, extended to my whole being. I went back to the world having found the true center and the true meaning of cosmic rotation."
Henry Miller.
The Sporades is a group of Greek islands in the northwest Aegean Sea. Four of them – Alonnisos, Skiathos, Skopelos and Skyros – are inhabited. The islands are known for their beaches, wooded terrain, and coastal diving and snorkeling. Surrounded by uninhabited isles, Alonnisos is at the center of a marine park that’s home to dolphins and Mediterranean monk seals. Within a distance of 50 miles you can sail up to the Chalkidiki peninsula. The Chalkidiki peninsula reaches down into the Northern Aegean, with three smaller peninsulas Kassandra, Sithonia, and Mount Athos and they offer dense vegetation, rocky landscapes, and pure blue seas, a uniquely alternative destination.
The (Northern) Sporades are an archipelago along the east coast of Greece, northeast of the island of Euboea, in the Aegean Sea. The group of Sporades islands is located off Mount Pelion, in the northwestern Aegean Sea.They consist of 24 islands, four of which are permanently inhabited: Alonnisos, Skiathos, Skopelos and Skyros and a few uninhabited islets that form the Marine Park of the North Aegean Sea. They may also be referred to as the Thessalian Sporades.
This Sporades islands we will give you all the necessary information to organize your sailing holiday in the Sporades islands in Greece. Sheltered and unspoiled anchorages, sandy white beaches will offer you the pleasures of an unforgettable holiday. Go island-hopping in a paradise island complex.
Emerald waters and a salty sea breeze keep you company on the most carefree of yachting holidays. Rules and restrictions are blown away like a puff of cloud on the clear blue horizons; no hotel check-ins or “quiet hours” to observe. You’ll swim on the crest of silvery waves with dolphins as playmates, explore unspoilt beaches, discover a brand new passion for fishing, find the perfect spot in a calm, windless harbour and succumb to the ruby sunset, cocktail at hand.
Let your dreams come true in one of the following islands:
Skiathos, Skopelos, Alonisos, Kira Panagia, Gioura, Piperi, Peristera, Psathoura, Tsougria, Skiros.
Skiathos
As for their popularity, Skiathos attracts the biggest number of visitors, followed by Skopelos. Alonissos and Skyros keep a lower profile. Most travelers get there during the summer, which is the best season to spend time at their exotic seashores. Skiathos is mostly known for its long, sandy bays, many of which are organized. They have crystal clear waters and a few of them offer opportunities for diving and sailing. The island also offers totally unspoiled coves, while its picturesque villages are full of charming houses with tiled rooftops. A few historic buildings and churches are among the island’s main landmarks.
Skopelos
As for Skopelos, the most beautiful thing you are going to set your eyes on is nothing other than the island’s beaches! The stunning seashores are secluded and unorganized. Most of them are covered with sand and shingle, while their surroundings involve dense nature, full of lush greenery. Only a few of these emerald-water seashores offer tourist facilities, including opportunities for diving and other watersports. The island also has a few monasteries and monuments worth visiting. Skopelos enjoyed international acclaim when Hollywood producers chose it to shoot the famous movie “Mamma Mia!”, establishing the island as a holiday destination for travellers coming from all over the world.
Alonissos
Alonissos is quite delopped in terms of tourism as well, with several accommodation facilities, including luxury villas in remote locations. Similarly to its neighboring islands, its biggest highlight is its beaches that are usually shrigley, surrounded by vegetation and with clear turquoise waters. Some of them come with sunbeds, while others are completely unorganized. In addition to its main town, Alonissos has a few other picturesque settlements and a Marine Park, frequented by seals among other animals. Alonissos was one of the first Islands of the Aegean to be inhabited, as indicated by Neolithic settlement remnants found at the Cape of Kokkinokastro (meaning “Red Castle”).
Skyros
Skyros is also full of unspoiled beaches with crystal clear waters, although the island’s architecture might be the first thing to catch your attention. Chora, its capital town, is built on a hill, below a Medieval Castle. It offers some of the most stunning views of the Aegean! Monasteries, museums and other sights are among the must-see places during your stay on the island. Several myths of Greek Mythology referring to legendary heroes such as Lykomedes, Theseus, Achilles and Neoptolemus, are connected with the island of Skyros. Whether you are an action lover or desperate for carefree moments under the sun, Skyros has a unique experience to offer to each one of you! The best thing about Skyros is that it remains a true hidden gem, undiscovered by tourism.
Sporades islands
The Best Beaches
The Sporades islands are home to some of Greece’s most beautiful beaches, offering a diverse range of coastal experiences. Each beach in the Sporades offers a unique experience, from vibrant beach bars to secluded spots. The diverse landscapes and pristine waters make the Sporades a perfect destination for beach lovers. Whether you prefer the bustling atmosphere of popular beaches or the tranquility of hidden coves, you will find the perfect spot in the Sporades. Discover the best beaches in the Sporades and enjoy a perfect seaside getaway. With their natural beauty and range of activities, these beaches offer something for everyone.
Skiathos
Koukounaries
Skiathos
Lalaria
Skiathos
Banana
Skiathos
Mandraki
Skiathos
Agia Paraskevi
Alonissos
Agios Dimitrios
Alonissos
Chrisi Milia
Alonissos
Milia
Alonissos
Marpunta
Alonissos
Kokkinokastro
Alonissos
Gialia
Skyros
Magazia
Skyros
Gyrismata
Skyros
Pefkos
Peristera
Paralia Peristera
In Skiathos, Koukounaries Beach is renowned for its golden sands and lush pine forest backdrop. This beach is perfect for families and offers a range of water sports and amenities. Lalaria Beach, accessible only by boat, offers dramatic white cliffs and azure waters. Its unique pebbles and stunning scenery make it a must-visit.
Another gem in Skiathos is Banana Beach, divided into Big Banana and Little Banana. These beaches are popular for their vibrant atmosphere and beach bars. For a more secluded experience, visit Mandraki Beach, surrounded by pine forests and offering crystal-clear waters. Agia Paraskevi Beach is another highlight, known for its fine sand and calm waters, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and swimming. This beach offers sunbeds, umbrellas, and nearby tavernas, providing a perfect setting for a day at the beach.
In Alonissos, Agios Dimitrios Beach is perfect for relaxation and snorkeling. The clear waters and underwater rock formations make it ideal for underwater exploration. Chrisi Milia Beach is another highlight, known for its shallow waters and soft sand, making it ideal for families. The beach offers sunbeds, umbrellas, and a beach bar for refreshments. Milia Beach is a more tranquil option, surrounded by dense greenery and providing a peaceful retreat. Don’t miss Marpunta Beach, a beautiful beach with pebbles and clear waters, ideal for snorkeling and enjoying the natural surroundings.
The beach of Kokkinokastro (Red Castle), situated beneath an abrupt red cliff. Nearby, you will see some wall remains of the ancient city of Ikos. Opposite the beach, on an islet known as Kokkinonisi (Red Island) or Vrahos (rock), tools from the Palaeolithic Era were also found. This is one of the earliest evidence of human life in the Aegean. Kokkinokastro offers a shore with sand and pebbles, as well as deep blue waters that are ideal for a relaxing swim. The beach is well-organized, with a collection of sunbeds and umbrellas for rent. A beach bar is also located on the shore, where visitors can grab a snack and a refreshing drink.
The beach of Gialia is nestled in a small rocky cove on the southwestern part of the island, about 2.2 km from Chora. The waters here are calm and crystal-clear, while the shore is covered with dark and grey pebbles. Lush greenery stretches along the surrounding rocky hills, adding a layer of untamed natural beauty. However, the trademark of the beach is undoubtedly the old windmill overlooking the sea, which has been restored and now serves as a summer cottage.
In Skyros the “twin” beaches of Molos and Magazia are among the island’s busiest and together form an impressive unified stretch of coastline. Their beautiful golden sand and deep blue shallow waters will please everyone. Moreso, they are children-friendly and offer a view of the Castle high up in Chora.
Boasting a traditional windmill on its edge, the sandy Gyrismata beach is popular and easy to reach. Despite its popularity it is a tranquil and relaxing place where one can enjoy the refreshing cool water.
Surrounded by lush hills, Pefkos (meaning pine in Greek) beach justifies its name, as pine trees reach all the way to the beach, providing ample shade. The beautiful bay offers shelter from the winds.
Peristera Island, near Alonissos, has several beautiful beaches accessible by boat. These secluded spots are perfect for those looking to escape the crowds. Paralia Peristera is a hidden gem that offers a unique beach experience for travelers looking for tranquility and natural beauty. This idyllic stretch of coastline is characterized by its sparkling emerald waters and its fine, golden sand, stretching invitingly for several kilometers along the shore. Despite its allure, Paralia Peristera is a place of unspoilt beauty with few amenities, so plan your trip accordingly. The beach’s serene atmosphere is perfect for sunbathing, swimming in the crystal-clear waters, picnicking, and enjoying the stunning sunset views in peace and quiet.
Sporades islands
Gastronomy Dream
In the old days, fishermen came to Skopelos to exchange fish and seafood for the olive oil and vegetables produced by the farmers on the island. Based on this age-old bartering, Skopelos’ cuisine combines the hunt of the sea with fresh wild greens, legumes, various traditional sauces made with local ingredients, and typically dressed with the traditional Greek virgin olive oil and accompanied by a glass of wine from the pink-skinned “Roditis”, or “Malagouzia”, grape varieties.
Skopelos
Cheese pie
Skopelos
Astakomakaronada
Skopelos
Tsitsiravla
Skiathos
Sun-dried octopus
Skopelos
Salted cod
Alonissos
Shrimp And Vegetables
Alonissos
Dried octopus
Alonissos
Moussaka
Skopelos
Goat Giouvetsi
Skyros
Broiled Mussels
Alonissos
Dolmades Avgolemono
Skyros
Pasta with Crabs
Skyros
Lobster Orzo
Skiathos
Greek-Salad
Skopelos
Chamalia (Amygdalota)
Skopelos
Avgato
Skopelos
Rozedes
The Sporades products, which grow in the lush green environment of the islands, distinguish for their taste and unique quality. The local cuisine of the Sporades islands (Skyros, Alonissos, Skiathos, Skopelos) is characterized for its simplicity, but also the strong flavors which are a result of the fresh aromatic herbs, the exquisite olive oil, and the good meat.
Sporades islands are well-known for their dairy products, thyme honey, spoon sweets, and other products that symbolize the role of tradition. Among the food that one can enjoy on these beautiful green Greek islands are the traditional cheese-pie, lamb and exotic seafood on the waterfront taverns, spaghetti with lobster which is characterized for the excellent taste and quality.
Particularly on Skyros island, the local cuisine is light with the main preference in legumes. On a wedding occasion, the island celebrates offering a great number of doughnuts to the people. The cuisine of Skyros is mainly based on agricultural products and seafood. The local cuisine of Skiathos island consists of fresh fish mostly. Also, great wine is produced from the vineyards in the Holy Monastery of the Virgin for more than a century. On Skopelos island, you will enjoy the famous Skopelian pie, goat with plums, salads and local treats.
Characteristic dishes of the traditional cuisine of Skopelos include the famous Skopelos cheese pie – although there is still much debate about its origin since both the islanders of Skiathos and Alonissos claim it as their own. Other dishes include meatballs with a sweet and sour sauce with plums, a goat with wild greens in a creamy egg-lemon sauce, goat with hilopites (a type of pasta), goat with artichokes, goat with plums and quince, fried anchovies in tomato sauce, lobster with orzo, salted cod dished out with plums and potatoes, crabs with a light tomato sauce.
They also serve up gounes (sun-dried fish), octopus prepared in various ways (including sun-dried), and galopetdes (deep-fried sea anemones). “Tsitsiravla” (tender tips of wild artichokes) and pickled winged beans (as they are made on the mainland of Greece), as well as pickled rock samphire, as common meze dishes to accompany tsipouro (the local strong and firey grape distillate).
If you are interested in seafood recipes, then you will definitely enjoy a delicious meal in the waterfront taverns of Alonissos island. You can taste the spaghetti with lobster, and Alonissos pie. A good meal must always be accompanied by a nice dessert and in that case, you should try the traditional homemade sweets.
Another famous dish in Skopelos is the wild-greens pie, locally called “hortopita”. This pie uses a traditional Greek “Fyllo” pastry made with flour, olive oil and white wine vinegar. If you like this traditional pie, then you might also enjoy the cheese version (“tiropita”) from Skiathos.
For desert, you might enjoy the traditional “Aspro” (means “white”). Made using only three ingredients, almonds, lemon and sugar. Or if you’re more inclined to a digestif rather than desert, you’ll find a good number of liqueurs, prepared according to tradition. Take your pick amongst a selection of walnut, cherry, geranium, honey, or other liqueurs made with fruit and botanical ingredients.
In Skopelos the most famous and rare sweet is “avgato,” an amazing spoon sweet made from apricots. Other delicious sweets include “chamalia,” unbaked almond sweets in irregular shapes that are usually made for festivals, weddings, and baptisms; “rozedes,” unbaked spherical sweets made of walnuts or almonds and sugar; and as previously mentioned a plethora of spoon sweets, jams, and fruit-based liqueurs.
Sporades islands
CULTURE & EXPLORATION
In Skopelos you can visit two stunning Byzantine monasteries, Evangelistria and Timiou Prodrómou. According to legend Saint Riyínos killed a dragon 800 years ago on this island, and you can visit “Drakonstosxisma”(Dragon Cleft), the cliff where the dragon fell to its death. Or you can visit the pirate’s graves at Sendoukia, meaning “chests”.
The Blue Cave is arguably the most popular area to explore in the famed Marine Park of Alonissos. Positioned between the beaches of Strovili and Lalarias, the small cave is an interesting interplay of dazzling light and water and offers a highlight of most boat tours on the island.
The National Marine Park of Alonissos and Northern Sporades is currently the largest marine protected area in Europe and the breeding region for the Mediterranean Monk Seal (Monachus monachus) which it is believed to be the world’s rarest pinniped species. It is a member of the MedPAN (Network of Marine Protected Areas in the Mediterranean). Besides the sea area, the park includes the main island of Alonissos, six smaller islands (Peristera, Kyra Panagia, Gioura, Psathoura, Piperi, Skantzoura), as well as 22 uninhabited islets and rocky outcrops.
In Alonnisos you’ll find a Medieval Castle with breathtaking vistas. In Gioura you can visit the neolithic cave where, according to Homer, Cyclops used to live. And in Kyra Panagia you can see a 12th century Monastery.
If history interests you, you’ll find the Archaeological Museum in Skyro housing items from the Early Hellenic Period to the Roman times (3200 BC to AD 476). If you’re a fan of the arts, you might enjoy the Folk Art Museum in Skyros, or the little stone theater hosting the summer “Skyros Festival”.
Sporades islands
Weather and sailing conditions
The sailing season in Greece starts in late spring and ends at the end of September, with the summer months being the busiest period.
With a Mediterranean climate, the Sporades experience hot, dry summers and warm, rainy winters. During the sailing season, temperatures normally fall between 20°C and 30°C (68°F and 86°F), which makes for a pleasant sailing and exploring environment.
Prevailing winds blow from the north and northwest, creating thus superb sailing conditions. The Meltemi does not blow as strongly through the northern Sporades as in the south. Flat seas on the lee side of the islands and Meltemi create sailing conditions so popular for flotillas.
As the distances between northern Sporades are reasonably short, there is an abundance of nice and sheltered anchorages.
Mooring in this area is like elsewhere in Greece – you will use your anchor to berth stern or bow-to, or you will anchor with a long line ashore.
Electricity and water in the town harbours are paid separately through a token. Bear in mind that potable water is a scarce commodity in the Northern Sporades and comes with a higher price.
Sporades islands
Best routes & sailing itinerary
International flights land on the island of Skiathos; however, you can find the best offer of sailing boats in Volos. The whole area in the Gulf of Volos is well-protected from Meltemi as it is situated in a 15 nm wide circle and surrounded by massive mountains. This large bay with several secluded coves and charming towns is worth visiting. Therefore, we recommend starting off your sailing trip from Volos Marina. When forging plans, count the distance and time needed to get from Volos to Sporades and then back.
The ideal stops before reaching the first Sporades island closer to the mainland are anchorages on the Pelion peninsula located at the end of Pagasetic Gulf. Bays such as Agia Kiriaki harbour, Pithos Bay close to the Trikori town or an isolated Andriami anchorage provide good and beautiful shelter for day 2 and day 6.
For a stress-free vacation, we don’t recommend sailing further than Kyra Panagia. From Volos, head to Skiathos, from Skiathos with a stopover in Tsougria to Skopelos, next day, hop off in Alonissos. From Alonissos, you can easily reach Kyra Panagia, an almost intact island with breathtaking natural scenery. From Alonisos, you will return to Skiathos or Pelion again.
Suggested sailing itinerary for 7 days
Our suggestion assumes that you will leave the next day, however, feel free to set sail already on Saturday to get more time for the islands. As always, you can adjust your plan on the go – Sporades are an area that makes planning rather easy.
- Day 1: Volos
- Day 2: Volos to Agia Kyriaki (mainland) (18 nm)
- Day 3: Agia Kyriaki to Skiathos (15 nm)
- Day 4: Skiathos (Koukounaries/Kechria) – Skopelos (Loutraki) (16 nm)
- Day 5: Skopelos – Alonissos (Votsi) / Peristera (20 nm)
- Day 6: Alonnisos – Andriami/Platanias (mainland) (30 nm)
- Day 7: Andriami – Volos (30 nm)
You can find the route on Google Maps on this link.
You can also discuss the best route and itinerary with the yacht owner before departure. You are free to plan your own schedule!
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