Skiathos is the smallest of the Sporades islands and lies closest to the Greek mainland, six miles away.

The northern coastline remains virtually untouched; a visit to the northern beaches, below beautiful valleys of pines, by private boat will reward the more adventurous with clear waters and privacy.

Alternatively, the tiny island of Tsougria off the southern coast can be reached by caïque in fifteen minutes from Skiathos harbour and offers a selection of sandy beaches. Skiathos Town is the only town on the island; a drive to the interior of Skiathos allows one to find small hamlets hidden amongst pine forests and ornate churches.

The coast road offers easy access to small pockets of holiday resort trappings: large sandy beaches with sun loungers and umbrellas; watersports and scuba-diving clubs; tavernas and bars; impromptu shops selling beach accessories; supermarkets and boat hire.

Skiathos will appeal to those who want sandy beaches. Small caïques depart every morning from the harbour of Skiathos Town for the more popular beaches.

In Skiathos Town the waterfront bars face bobbing caïques, painted in rich colours, and yachts from all nations; evenings attract fashion conscious strollers; soft music varies from Greek to classical, soul and jazz; northern European accents mingle with southern. From the waterfront, narrow flagstoned sidestreets of jewellery shops rise to an area devoted to tavernas and restaurants.

• Achladies Beach
• Skiathos Town
• Sklithri Bay