Skopelos has been described as an exquisite green jewel in the blue Aegean. Mostly covered in wild pine forest the island has two main centres, the town of Skopelos on the south east side and the mountain village of Glossa in the north with the island’s one main road linking the two.
There are many superb beaches easily reached by bus, car or motorbike. They are mostly on the west side of the island. Some are secluded and deserted while others come equipped with umbrellas, recliners and tavernas. All are fantastic for swimming and snorkelling in the crystal clear water. Throughout the island there are wonderful walks and opportunities to explore valleys of plane trees, which thrive on the abundant spring water; hillsides of umbrella pines hiding small churches and white-washed monasteries; rough tracks lined with wild fruit trees; terraces of olive, walnut, almond, plum, pear, grapevines and citrus; cliff top tracks used by large, shaggy goats and surveyed by birds of prey, and many vantage points with dramatic views across the Aegean Sea to neighbouring islands.
Skopelos was the main location for Mamma Mia, the UK’s biggest grossing film ever. The open-air cinema, neglected for many years, was reopened specially to run the film throughout the summer of 2008. It was packed out every night with locals and visitors who all cheered when each familiar beach or landmark appeared on the screen.
The islanders are proud of their home, their Greek heritage and their traditional hospitality.
