SKOPELOS

GENERAL INFORMATION

The charm of Skopelos captivates the visitor before he even sets foot on the island. Traditional white settlements scattered across the fertile green landscape, framed by the deep blue of the Aegean Sea under the azure sky, ensnare the vision and create a feeling of jealousy towards the local population of 6.000, privileged to live their lives in such a setting. 

HISTORY-CULTURE

Ancient Peparithos, as Skopelos was known in ages past, was renowned for her wine. Since the far reaches of antiquity, Skopelos has been exporting its famous produce, which travelled through the ages unto the 18th century BC to be noted as ?one of the most valuable things of the world?. The island?s fortunes followed the destiny of most of the Aegean, changing hands from Athenians to Spartans, from Macedonians to Romans, from Byzantines to Venetians, until it finally regained independence from the Turks after the 1821 Greek National Revolution. Many hardships characterized these long centuries, but none more than the pirate raids, the worst of which being the one led by notorious Barbarossa, who slaughtered most of the populace after razing the town.    

SIGHTS

Continuously inhabited since Minoan times, Skopelos presents archaeological findings of many different phases of the Greek civilization. Ancient temples and settlements, medieval monasteries and castles, Mycenean and Roman tombs, all bespeak of a rich past, just as the flowery stone-paved pathways winding across the picturesque town between freshly-whitened buildings offer the promise of an unforgettable experience in days to come. The natural beauty of the island is no less captivating, its green landscape surrounded by the waters of the Aegean Sea making it resemble an emerald set to adorn a pure, deep blue crystal. Mild sandy beaches alternate with steep cliffs diving straight into the deep, forming a coastline which rewards those privileged to tour around it. The cave of Trypiti is one of the most spectacular natural formations of the island, while the aesthetic forest on Delfi mountain is the jewel hidden in its interior. The Dragon?s chasm, a pine-crested gorge which leads directly into the sea, is also impressive, but there are many more sights left to be discovered, each receptive to whatever name the visitor?s imagination suggests.      

ENTERTAINMENT-SPORTS-SHOPPING

Cafes and taverns where traditional specialties are accompanied by the sound of the breaking of the waves are perfect for relaxation, while bars and dancing clubs with trendy music from night until dawn ?and often well into the next morning- offer certain excitement for those who revel in wild nightlife. Accommodations will satisfy any demands, as facilities are designed to provide for any type of request. Watersports are available on the most popular beaches, leaving the more reclusive ones to lovers and to those in search of tranquility. Cultural events are frequent and diverse, ranging from local customs to musical concerts and theatrical shows. Local onion stew is delicious, as are cheese pies and traditional sweets. Hand-made ceramics are of notable quality and design, and a few bottles of local wine must be taken back home, an exquisite gift for those held in high esteem.       

ACCESS

Conventional ferries as well as speed-boats arrive here daily from Volos and Agios Constantinos. Buses can bring you to any of these two ports from any place in Greece. Routes are increasingly frequent during the Summer.

CONNECTIONS

Direct lines lead to the ports of Skiathos, Allonissos, Skyros, and Trikeri all year round. In the Summer, there are also routes to Kymi in Evia, Platanias and Stylida in Thessaly, Thessaloniki in central Macedonia, Marmaras, Moudania, Porto Carras and Pefkohori in Chalkidiki.   

MUSEUMS

The town of Skopelos hosts a museum with a folk art collection of considerable cultural interest.

ALTERNATIVE TOURISM

Archaeology, cultural-historical, ecotourism, caving, gastronomy, wine roads, sporting (windsurfing, sailing, water ski, scuba diving, zodiac cruise, trekking).

USEFUL TELEPHONE NUMBERS:

SKOPELOS AREA CODE:  24240-

POLICE STATION: 24240-22235

MUNICIPALITY: 24240-22205

TELECOMMUNICATIONS ORG.: 24240-22399

POST OFFICE: 24240-22203

PORT POLICE :24240-22180

TAXI STATION: 24240-23240

MEDICAL CENTER :24240-22222

PHARMACIES: 24240-22252