The Sporades archipelago - all you want is Greece!

Today we present a guest article by Visit Greece

Skiathos

Skiathos, the most cosmopolitan island in the Northern Sporades, is truly a paradise on earth, with lush pine forests and crystal clear azure waters. Although tourism has grown rapidly in recent decades, the island remains picturesque and unspoilt, with more than 60 stunning beaches.

The most famous is Koukounariés, which has been described as the third most beautiful beach in the Mediterranean. When you add the island's vibrant nightlife, it's only natural that the island attracts thousands of young visitors every year!

Sporades, Skiathos, Koukounaries Beach Photo: GNTO/Y. Skoulas

Lalária Beach, in the north-east of the island, is a once-in-a-lifetime beach. Here, mighty white rock formations, small round rocks (which is what lalaria means in Greek), crystal clear waters and the "hollow rock" that stands imposingly on the beach provide a beautiful natural backdrop that will take your breath away. Note: you can only reach the beach by boat which, weather permitting, departs from the harbour of Skiáthos.

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Skopelos

Eye-catching landscapes, crystal clear waters on golden shores, traditional Pelion architecture, rugged natural landscapes and pure island atmosphere. This is what Skopelos offers.

The island attracted international attention when Hollywood producers chose it to film the famous the film "Mamma Mia!"and established it as a holiday destination for travellers from all over the world.

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Alonissos: The first underwater museum in Greece!

Life here is full of new experiences, fishing, hiking, canoeing, kayaking, diving, leisure and daily visits to the islands of Europe's largest marine park.
The National Marine Park of Alonissos and the Northern Sporades is a member of MedPAN (Network of Marine Protected Areas in the Mediterranean), established in 2003 and funded under the Operational Programme "Environment and Sustainable Development".

Alonissos - Discovering ancient shipwrecksSince 2020, amateur divers and free divers, along with diving centres, can visit Greece's first underwater museum, the famous shipwreck with amphorae dating back to the 5th century BC, located on the seabed of the Peristera islet in Alonissos.

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Skyros

Whether you're an action lover or desperately craving carefree moments under the sun, Skyros has a unique experience to offer.

When you reach the island, you will encounter the scenic harbour of Linaria. Just ten kilometres away you will find the beautiful Chóra, built as an amphitheatre around a Byzantine castle on the site of the ancient citadel (acropolis). Walking through the cobbled alleys, you can admire the unique architecture of the skyrise houses.

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Volos and Mount Pelion

Volos is located 320 kilometres north of Athens and 219 kilometres south of Thessaloniki. The modern city, built near the site of ancient Iolcos, dominates the region of Magnesia.

The sights of Volos are so numerous that the visitor will feel that his day is more than full. Without doubt, this is the most impressive corner of the city, adorned not only by fishing boats and yachts, but also by an exact imitation of the ancient ship Argo, constructed by faithfully following reports and ancient texts. The modern Argo, a brilliant achievement in shipbuilding, will fill history lovers with excitement.

The famous tsipouradikan in Volos: When visiting Volos, you will definitely pass a tsipouro tavern, the unrivalled landmark of the city.

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When talking about Volos, Mount Pelion is the first destination that comes to mind. Pelion forms a natural border between the Magnesia region and the Aegean Sea. Its gentle slopes and easily accessible peaks make it a popular destination for hiking lovers and weekend climbers.