Skyros between history and myth.
Often mentioned in ancient Greek mythology, Skyros is deeply connected to famous figures such as Theseus, Achilles, Neoptolemus, whose names are still found around the island to this day. The unusual tradition, manners, and customs of Skyros testify to its ancient origins, while the contents of the local museums offer concrete proof of this long history.
The Carnival of Skyros is one of the most important pre-Christian traditions that remains important to the inhabitants of Skyros, even today, and has its roots in Dionysian mysteries and ancient pagan practices.
There are few truly beautiful locales that are untouched by mass tourism. Skyros is one of these last holdouts of authentic Greee, a small corner of paradise and the ideal destination for summer holidays. It is an island isolated in the middle of the Aegean, combining the lush arboreal landscape of the Sporades with the wild windswept beauty of the Cyclades.
There are untold numbers of beaches, one for every mood and preference -- organized, easily accessible happening locations to raw, remote outposts. At Molos and Magazia Beach, the largest on the island, you can find numerous beach bars and restaurants who offer beach chairs with sandy beaches and gentle waves. Kalamitsa, Aspous, and Pefkos offer cool clear water and pebble beaches with optional beach chairs. Kyra Panagia, Agios Fokas, Gyrismata are wilder, rockier beaches where anyone can lay down their towels. Agalipa, Agios Petros, Acherounes, and Kareflou sandy, unspoiled beaches where the natural landscape is totally uninterrupted.
Skyros, the jewel of the Sporades
Situated in the middle of the Aegean Sea, Skyros is an island of lush forests, secluded beaches, and a lovely ancient town make it an ideal destination for nature lovers. Chora, the main town, is built high atop an ancient acropolis and spills dramatically down the mountainside, providing a stunning view of the entire northeastern side of the island. Whitewashed houses, winding alleys, and stunning views of the sea provide a perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in Skyrian life.
Wanderings for Early Mornings & Late Afternoons
Skyros's natural topography offers many options for activities of every kind, from exhilarating early morning hikes to relaxing at the many different beaches, from visiting museums to experiencing the local culture.
Here is a sampling of some suggest excursions around the island:
- A Tranquil Morning Walk. View the sunrise and a breathtaking early morning view from the height of Eleftheria Square (Brooke Square) and its statue "Eternal Poet" dedicated to the poet Rupert Brooke, one of the best locations on Skyros to take in the tranquil morning breeze and view the entire expanse of the Aegean.
- Chora by Foot. Wander among the winding alleys of the village, discover shops with local products, small art galleries, modern cafes, and restaurants with fresh, delicious fare. The traditional, ancient town is an officially designated preserved settlement known as Chora. Touring the spotless, picturesque paths of the town is an experience all its own, day or night. The opportunities for music, drinks, and people watching are without comparison, and each of the island's many cafes and bars have their own unique atmosphere and character.
For a more vigorous hike, and stunning early sunrise and sunset views, climb up to the ancient Mycenaean fortifications and protected settlement within the Castro, the Byzantine Monastery of St. George (the patron saint of Skyros), and the ancient palace of Lykomedes, stopping along the way to take in the many small churches, ancient aqueduct, the Folklore and Archaeological museums, and the Traditional Skyrian House museum.
On your way back down to the main square, visit the many traditional workshops of Skyrian artisans who produce exceptional wood carvings, handmade ceramics, and detailed embroideries, and who are always interested to demonstrate their craft.
Day Excursions, Sunsets & Natural Beauty. If you wish to discover more of the natural beauty of Skyros, the opportunities are endless.
- In addition to Brooke Square and the Castro, venture further afield to Agios Panteleimon or Atsitsa for stunning sunsets directly overlooking the sea.
- Take a hike along well trodden paths in the islands lush pine forests or along the ancient mountain ridges.
- Many local operators offer day trips on ships and sailboats to sea caves with turquoise waters not accessible by any other means. Many also offer local traditional lunches and swimming on secluded beaches, such as the shipwreck at Agalipa.
- For lovers of extreme sports, there are outfits who facilitate scuba diving and snorkeling tours, and windsurfing.
- For a more relaxed activity, visit the local rescue nonprofits who care for the Skyrian pony and offer gentle horse riding in the forest and along beaches, one of many unforgettable experiences on the island.
Cultural & Historical Institutions. Finally, it would be a serious omission not to let you in on the lovely cultural attractions of Skyros, ones that will enrich your knowledge of this beautiful and rich island.
- Archaeological Museum of Skyros. Located in Chora, just off Brooke Square and below the Castro, you will find artifacts and exhibitions stretching back to the earliest inhabitants of the island, many of which have been found in the excavations at the archaeological site of Palamari.
- Skyros Traditional House. Just adjacent to the Archaeological Museum, in a shared courtyard is a special room representing a traditional Skyrian household, with all its rooms, decor, and furnishings, and where you can also view traditional folk costume, embroideries, and ceramics decorated with the traditional designs of Skyros.
- Manos Faltaits Museum. One of the first established folklore and cultural museums in Greece, it is housed in the historic Faltaits Family mansion and exhibits historic traditional Skyrian household objects, rare embroideries and ceramics, old manuscripts and island archival documents, rare books, and works of art by sculptors and paintings by Manos Faltaits.
- Palamari Archaeological Site. Halfway to the tranquil beach at pine-scented Atsitsa, travelling northwest from Chora, lies the ruins of a Bronze Age (2500-1800 BC) Mycenaean coastal settlement and fortifications. Still an active archaeological excavation, evidence of occupation as early as the Neolithic and as late as the Roman period has been found at Palamari.
- Pouria Quarry & St. Nicholas Chapel. Just North of Gyrismata Beach is the remains of an ancient quarry of porous rock. Hollowed out in the base of the wild wind and weather-beaten rock is a small chapel.Just adjacent is a converted windmill and cafe known as Anemomylos.
- Atsitsa Bay & Mining Ruins. On the northwest side of the island lies Atsitsa Bay, a tranquil and sun-sheltered cove where the pine trees reach directly to the edge of the sea and you can view crystal clear blue-green waters from the cliff's edge and the sunset in the evenings. An old factory building has been converted into a cafe and nearby is a holistic retreat center offering yoga and writing workshops.
- Skyrian Horse Preserves. The diminuitive horses of Skyros are a unique, ancient breed found nowhere else in the world and are classified as an endangered and protected species. Several nonprofits care for and manage herds on the island, in areas such as Trachi or Mouries. Some herds still occupy Mount Kochylas on the southern part of Skyros, an area of special ecological designation. It is worth it to visit one of the herds under care, to allow you or your children to experience this rare horse up close.
Additional Reading
https://www.athinorama.gr/travel/destinations/ellada/sporades/skuros/axiotheata#
https://www.athenshotspots.gr/2023/08/odoiporiko-skyros.html
https://www.travel.gr/best-of/best-of-skyros-axiotheata-paralies-diamoni/
