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Sporades |
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Because of the proximity to Athens the
islands are popular with Athenians. Especially in summer they
literally invade the island on weekends. For probably this
very reason there are few foreign tourists visiting the
islands. If you are planning a visit try coming during the
week rather than the weekend.
The Sporades are easy to reach from the
mainland. Ferries to the island go from Agios Konstantinos,
Volos and Thessaloniki. As you would expect the islands are
also connected with each other. The regular ferries tend to
be a lot cheaper than the fast boats. If you got plenty of
time I suggest using regular ferries. They are far more
comfortable. Skiathos is the most important island
within the group. 5000 people live there. The island is well
known for the fine sandy beaches and clean water. The 800
meters long Koukounaries Beach is considered the most
beautiful among the over 50! beaches but this popularity
comes at a price. In summer it is packed with people. The
local capital is called Skiathos as well. It is a busy small
town. It is quite charming and the restaurants and tavernas
are excellent. Skiathos also has an airport.
Skopelos (3500 inhabitants) is only 7
kilometers away from Skiathos. The island is well known for
excellent beaches. Most of the island is covered in Pine
forests. The local capital (Skophelos) is picturesque. There
are over 100 hundred churches in chapels which is astonishing
considering the size of the town. The second bigger
settlement on the island is Loutraki. It is the islands main
port. Worth visiting is the acropolis of Selinoutra nearby.
Alonnisos (2800 inhabitants) is a prime
spot for hiking. It is not as densely populated as the other
islands. Skyros (2500 inhabitants) is somewhat
further away from the mainland than the other islands. It is
the biggest of the islands. Since a little bit more difficult
to reach than the other Sporades it is a lot less touristy.
It is a fine spot for hiking.
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