Likened often to Mykonos, Skiathos has a luxury scene and a fancy clientele that may actually cloud its beauty and authenticity. Like all Greek islands however, it still boasts many interesting attractions and some outdoor activities, which are best enjoyed outside the top peak months of July and August.

Skiathos is green, full of pine trees but also home to Lake Strofilias right next to the Koukounaries wetlands (there’s also the very popular party beach of Koukounaries nearby, and we would have liked it not to be there, but mass tourism seems to have pulled an ace here). Busy beaches aside, the island has a few old windmills from the days when life was much more simple, the church of St. Nicholas in the Kotronia area with beautiful views, and the remains of an old island fortress, Bourtzi, which played a part in gaining independence from the Ottomans back in 1823.

For a more cultural experience head to the home and museum of Alexander Papadiamantis, a well loved writer in Greece’s literary heritage, whose museum reflects a more erudite side of island life. Two notable monasteries also enthrall visitors on the island, those being the Monastery of Evagelistria from 1794 and the Kounistra Monastery with roots as far back as 1655.

For those who love nature, there are over two-dozen hiking routes on the island with hiking enthusiasts such as Ortwin Widmann, whose practically Greek and has made Skiathos his home since 1997, conducting hiking tours to visitors. He also has a penchant for herbs and would be delighted to share his knowledge. Learn more about alternative tourism activities and hiking in Skiathos here.