Explore Skyros
Unwind the clock of modern life. Unlock the door to a wonder of the world.
Skyros island lies almost in the center of the Aegean Sea, and placed in Sporades island complex, although the distance is greater than the distance of the island of Evia, which lies about 35 kilometers east (22 nautical miles) . Its area is estimated to be approximately 210 sq. km. miles, while its population is about 3,500 residents.
The largest part of Skyros is mountainous, with two distinct mountain ranges in the northern and southern parts. Among them there is semi lowland and semi hilly area, which is north south direction, between the northern eastern and southern coasts of the island. The northern part is covered with dense pine forest, while the successive hills and mountains dominate the top Olympus. The southern part is dominated by the massif of the shell (792 m), while the mountains are rocky wasteland. In a sense, the northern part resembles natural landscapes that one encounter in the Sporades and Evia north, while the south with the landscapes of southern Evia but even in the Cyclades.
Climate of Skyros
Skyros has a Mediterranean climate, typical of most Aegean islands, featuring cool summers and mild winters. The prevailing northern winds during summer help to moderate maximum temperatures compared to inland areas, significantly reducing discomfort. The average annual temperature is around 17°C. Most rainfall occurs in winter, while summer sees rare precipitation, typically in the form of brief thunderstorms. The total annual rainfall averages about 500 mm. Although snow can occasionally fall in winter, accumulation in the coastal areas of the island is quite rare.
Capital and Villages of Skyros
The capital of Skyros is the town of Skyros, located in the northeastern part of the island in the Aegean Sea. Nearby villages include Magazia, Molos, Gyrismata, and Pouria, which extend from the capital to the coast. Along the north coast, south of the town, you will find Aspous and Achilli, while the northern part of the island is home to the settlements of Trachi, where the airport is located, and Atsitsa on the western shore.
The main port is Linaria, situated on the southwestern coast within the bay of the same name, serving as the island’s connection to the rest of Greece. In the adjacent bay lies the settlement of Acherounes, and further west is Pefkos. To the east of Linaria, you will find the settlement of Kalamitsa.
Skyros is part of the prefecture of Evia, which maintains significant cultural and historical connections to the island. It is an autonomous municipality with a single district that includes all settlements on the island and the nearby islets.
Attractions and Sights
Skyros offers a variety of interesting attractions and sights for visitors to explore:
- Explore the charming narrow streets of the whitewashed town, filled with traditional buildings, colorful ceramics, and wooden carvings.
- Visit the Byzantine-Venetian fortress and the Monastery of Agios Georgios located at the top of the town.
- See the bronze statue that honors the British poet Rupert Brooke, who is buried on the island.
- Explore the Archaeological Museum and the Faltaits Folklore Museum in Chora to learn about the island’s history and culture
- Visit the Manos & Anastasia Faltaïts Museum, which showcases Skyros’ mythology and folklore
- Discover the ancient Bronze Age site of Palamari in the north of the island
- See the unique rock formations and the church carved into the rock at Pouria
- Relax on the island’s beautiful beaches like Gyrismata, Magazia, Agios Petros, Kalamitsa, and Atsitsa
- Enjoy fresh seafood, particularly the local lobster dishes, at the seaside tavernas
- Go hiking and explore the island’s diverse landscapes, from the pine forests in the north to the rocky mountains in the south
- Try water sports like swimming, windsurfing, and fishing
- Interact with the unique Skyrian horses, a rare breed that is indigenous to the island
