Relaxed and unpretentious, green and hilly Skopelos has spotlessly clean pebbled beaches and a laid-back, generous atmosphere.

Reached by hydrofoil from Skiathos, stepping onto Skopelos it feels like you have shed a life of hassle and manufactured entertainment, and entered a world of simple, timeless pleasures: translucent waters, cerulean skies, star-filled nights, good food and wine in friendly company.

With a coastline of mostly steep cliffs, the island’s beaches have a special importance and are noted for their immaculate condition. The hillsides are made up of wild flowers and fruit trees, olive groves and pines, and are dotted with small churches and whitewashed monasteries. The only sounds are the bells of wandering goats and the calls of birds, and everywhere you look there are dramatic views across the Aegean Sea to neighbouring islands.

The steep, winding warren of and the intimate tavernas under the lights of the waterfront are part of the changeless pleasures of Greek island life.

• Glossa
• Glysteri Beach
• Panormos
• Pefkias
• Skopelos Town