Sustainable Walks Across Skiathos
Embark on unforgettable hiking adventures in Skiathos, where history, nature, and sustainability meet. These trails offer scenic routes that connect you to the island’s natural beauty and cultural heritage while promoting responsible tourism and environmental preservation.
Embark on a scenic hiking adventure through the lush forests of Skiathos, exploring two of the island’s most beautiful beaches.
📍Koukounaries - Beaches Agistros and Gournes Loop
The Koukounaries to Agistros and Gournes Beaches loop is a scenic hiking route that offers a perfect blend of forest trails and coastal views. Starting from the renowned Koukounaries Beach, known for its golden sands and crystal-clear waters, the trail takes you through dense pine forests, revealing hidden beaches such as Agistros and Gournes. Along the way, you’ll experience stunning views of the Aegean Sea and the island’s untouched natural beauty. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day surrounded by nature or a more challenging hike with a coastal reward, this loop offers a memorable experience for all levels of hikers.
What to expect:
• Trail Length: Approximately 6 km, taking around 2-3 hours.
• Terrain: A mix of forest trails and coastal paths with gentle slopes.
• Highlights: Pristine beaches like Agistros and Gournes, panoramic sea views, and forested landscapes.
Why it’s sustainable:
• Low-Impact Hiking: The trail follows existing paths, minimizing disruption to the natural environment.
• Eco-Friendly Exploration: This route promotes eco-tourism by encouraging walking instead of motorized transport.
• Protected Area: The area is part of Skiathos’ protected landscapes, helping preserve the natural beauty and wildlife.
Experience a blend of history, spirituality, and nature as you hike through Skiathos’ inland monasteries and end at the secluded Kastro Beach.
📍Evangelistria Monastery - Agios Charalambos Monastery - Kastro Beach
This trail takes you from the Evangelistria Monastery, an important historical and religious site on the island, to the Agios Charalambos Monastery, known for its peaceful atmosphere. Along the way, you’ll be surrounded by dense forests, and you’ll have stunning views over the island’s countryside and coastline. The trail culminates at the isolated Kastro Beach, a peaceful spot that’s only accessible by boat or on foot, making it an ideal final destination for a rewarding hike. The journey offers a perfect balance of spirituality, history, and natural beauty, with the opportunity to explore the island’s religious heritage and hidden corners.
What to expect:
• Trail Length: Approximately 7 km, taking about 3-4 hours.
• Terrain: A mix of uphill and downhill sections, forested paths, and rocky coastal trails.
• Highlights: Historical monasteries, lush forests, and the secluded Kastro Beach.
Why it’s sustainable:
• Historical Preservation: Visiting the monasteries helps support the conservation of the island’s cultural and religious heritage.
• Eco-Conscious Hiking: This route promotes sustainable tourism by encouraging hiking as the main mode of exploration.
• Low Impact on Nature: The trail avoids overdeveloped areas, preserving the untouched natural beauty of the island’s landscapes.
Take on an adventurous hike that leads you through the heart of Skiathos’ spiritual sites, ending with panoramic views from the summit of Mytikas.
📍Evangelistria Monastery - Agios Charalambos Monastery - Mytikas Loop
The Evangelistria Monastery to Agios Charalambos Monastery and Mytikas summit loop is a challenging yet rewarding hiking trail that offers diverse landscapes and breathtaking views. Starting at the Evangelistria Monastery, this trail guides you through pine forests, rocky paths, and ancient chapels, all while providing impressive vistas of the island’s countryside and coastline. The final ascent to Mytikas, the highest point on the island, offers panoramic views of the Aegean Sea and the surrounding islands. This hike is perfect for those seeking an active adventure combined with cultural and natural exploration.
What to expect:
• Trail Length: Approximately 10 km, taking around 4-5 hours.
• Terrain: Steep ascents, rocky paths, and forested sections.
• Highlights: Majestic views from Mytikas summit, historical monasteries, and serene forests.
Why it’s sustainable:
• Promotes Low-Impact Travel: The trail encourages walking and exploration on foot, reducing the need for motorized transport.
• Cultural Preservation: By visiting historical sites, you support the ongoing conservation of Skiathos’ cultural landmarks.
• Natural Conservation: The route passes through protected areas, helping preserve the island’s natural beauty and wildlife.