SPORADES
Sporades islands are geographically located between the Greek mainland and the Greek islands of North Eastern Aegean, almost in the center of the Aegean Sea. There are many scattered islands, thus the name Sporades – sporadic. These four small islands have a special character each and amazing nature.
There are four main islands in Sporades. Skiathos, Skopelos, Alonnisos and Skyros.
Skiathos is famous for Koukounaries bay and its impressive exotic beach of Lalaria, accessible only by boat. Worth seeing the Medieval Castle of the island! The Town is the centre of activities, where visitors head in the evenings to enjoy a dinner a relaxing drink or for clubbing.
The green nature of Skopelos is breathtaking. Skopelos has its special architecture as shown in villages like Skopelos Town and Glossa. Nice beaches with crystal water are found all around the coastline of the island. Some famous beaches are Kastani (where the Mamma Mia movie was filmed) and Stafylos.
Alonissos is an authentic island mostly known for its incredible natural beauty and the amazing beaches. Chora is the most picturesque village in Alonissos island, located on top of a hill and offering a great view of the Aegean Sea.
Skyros is located in the center of the Aegean Sea. It is a place with vivid tradition and special character. Walk around the narrow streets of Chora, have a relaxing coffee and explore the Medieval Castle above the town. The most popular beach on the island is Molos, a long crystal coast with many tourist facilities.
At all main ports you can find:
- Great anchorage: will protect you from bad weather
- Classic Greek taverns & restaurants: also in Steni Vala, Alonnisos for lobster
- Cafés, bars & clubs: No clubs on other islands but Skiathos
- Fresh water and electricity: you will have access at all main ports by buying a card
The islands have many beautiful bays that are great anchor spots, such as Koukounaries bay in Skiathos, Panormos bay in Skopelos, Planitis bay in Kyra Panagia islet and many more.
Don’t miss the national marine park of Alonnisos! The area is rich in marine life and is the habitat of the endangered species, the Mediterranean Monk Seal (Monachus Monachus), one of the rarest animals in Europe with only around 800 surviving worldwide.
The Sporades islands are an ideal area for sailing because the direction of the destinations is always from east to west and vice versa, and the wind is usually north. This means that sailing is usually beam reach rather than upwind.
