Six Things to Do in Skiathos: A Few Ideas for Those Who Want to Burn Calories

It’s enough! Too much Greek food, too much wine, too many ice creams and cocktails. You need to move! Why not combining the beauties of this fantastic Greek island with sport? Here are some good ideas for you.

Skiathos on two wheels: Skiathos has a very well-organized mountain club called… Skiathos Mountain Bikes. From May to October, daily excursions start at bus stop Nr.3 on the single bus line. You just need to be at least 16 years, to wear a brightly coloured shirt and you are welcome! Everything is provided: bike, helmet, gloves and goggles, even water and first aid kit! However, it is better if you are a bit sporty, since the rides, depending on the chosen route, last from three to four hours. If you want to explore the island at your own pace, you can simply rent the bike of your choice and go exploring.

Skiathos on your feet: you prefer to walk and take the time to watch the bees gather thyme and lavender pollen? It’s possible. The island offers some 25 carefully marked routes with a total length of 197 km, which allow you to discover breathtaking landscapes, hidden valleys and small chapels or enjoy an idyllic environment. Why not organizing a romantic picnic and making your marriage proposal (yes, it happened!)? The walks vary in length from 1 to 6 hours. Do you know that the walker who will have to his credit 20 hikes and will prove it giving each route hiking code, will be awarded the ” Hiker’s Medal” by the Skiathos Hikers Club?

To browse the island on foot, three ways:

By yourself: In this case, I strongly recommend you to buy a book called “Tourist and Hiking in Skiathos Guide” which contains maps and itineraries. You will find it in all the bookshops of the island.

With a guide: Just ask for Mr. Ortwinn Widmann, the local expert, a German based in Skiathos for years. He knows the island inside out and everyone knows him. He will show you not only the most beautiful places, but also local medicinal and therapeutic plants.

With the Hikers Club: Skiathos Mountain Bikes, as its name does not indicate it, has thought of everyone and also organizes hikes on the many trails of the island. They last from three to four hours and you will discover other aspects of the island away from the cheering crowd.

However, don’t forget that for obvious reasons, the ideal periods for hiking are April, May, September and October.

Skiathos on the water: isn’t the Aegean sea the most natural way to discover a Greek island? Again, you can choose between several options:

– the organized tour (less interesting, in my opinion, because I prefer to be free to go where I want): just stroll along the harbour, the many companies offering this type of service distribute flyers of all kinds. The tours usually include the main beaches of the island or the neighbouring islands as Tsougria and Arkos (not inhabited) or Skopelos and Alonissos, with of course, the inevitable “Mamma mia tour” that will show you the flagship places of the eponymous film.

– renting a boat without skipper for one day: for those who do not have a sailing license, it is possible to rent a boat up to 30hp, which still allow you to reach Tsougria and Arkos. The boat rental company will explain all the details too you and will give the usual instructions. It is a wonderful experience that will give you an incomparable feeling of freedom

– renting a boat with skipper is also very nice and allows you to learn more about the island since it is generally a native who will tell you many interesting anecdotes. Prices vary according to the size and luxury of the boat. A Zodiac will allows to live an extraordinary and unforgettable day.

Skiathos underwater: whether you prefer scuba diving or snorkling, discover the fauna and flora of the safe crystal clear waters of the Aegean Sea

Skiathos sometimes on the water, sometimes under water: I mean water sports, classic ones such as water skiing, windsurfing and jet skiing or more wacky, such as the giant tire or the banana. Several beaches propose this type of activity. An example: ask Stefanos at Vassilias Beach or at Aghia Paraskevi, the nearest beach to our luxury villa in Skiathos.

Skiathos on the back of a horse: The Skiathos Riding Center will organize with you beautiful horse rides and has prepared itineraries that match your rider experience. Whether you are a beginner or seasoned rider, these tours will always show you exceptional landscapes while your kids will love to meet the donkeys and ponies at the riding center.

Well, now, you will have no excuse if you gain weight during your holiday in Skiathos! Just a bit too lazy, maybe…

I am the owner of the Villa Cassiopee, a luxury villa in Skiathos (Greece), offering stunning views and excellent services. Very spacious (300m²) and divided in two parts (NOT rented separately!), built with the finest materials and decorated with taste, it is located on the top of a hill above the bay of Aghia Paraskevi, where our guests will appreciate absolute privacy, tranquillity and stunning sea views, on a private 6000m2 plot planted with olives trees, flowers and lawn and with a 50sqm pool. It sleeps up to 12 persons in its 5 bedrooms and a sixth sleeping area in the mezzanine. The villa offers also 5 complete shower rooms, three of which are en-suite with three of the bedrooms. It has 2 spacious living rooms with fireplace and dining area and 2 fully equipped kitchens. Each living room has a beautiful terrace with nice furniture, offering an unforgettable view. I will personally organize a tailor-made stay for you. Have a look at my video: Villa Cassiopee