Skyros, nestled at the southern tip of the Sporades islands, is a gem waiting to be discovered. Just a stone’s throw from Kymi in Evia, a breezy 1.5-hour ferry ride will whisk you away to this enchanting island.
It’s a rugged beauty, with mountains dominating the landscape, yet it also boasts secluded coves and picturesque beaches that look like they’ve been lifted straight from a postcard.
I’m all about finding places that haven’t been swamped by commercialization or overrun by tourists, and Skyros hits the mark perfectly. It’s the ultimate escape for those yearning for a peaceful getaway. Imagine lounging by the sea, soaking up the sun, and letting the world’s worries drift away—Skyros offers all this and more.
The island is sprinkled with charming settlements, but the town of Chora truly stands out. As the bustling heart and capital, it’s where tradition meets a vibrant community spirit. When it comes to picking a spot to stay, you’ll find the options in Skyros not just accommodating but inviting, making it easier to choose the perfect retreat for your island adventure.
1. Skyros Town (Chora), best area to stay
Skyros Town, or “Chora” as it’s fondly called, perches gracefully on the northeastern side of the island. Imagine a scene straight out of a painting: houses sprawling amphitheatrically up a hillside, reaching a lofty 179 meters.
Atop this hill, the Byzantine Castle of Chora stands proud, a sentinel watching over the town, rooted in the spot once claimed by an ancient acropolis.
From the moment you set foot in Chora, the charm is undeniable. Beyond the main street stretching from Linaria to the castle, the town weaves a maze of cobblestone lanes and steps.
The homes, small and painted a brilliant white, nestle closely together, reminiscent of a fortress. And the interiors? Adorned with the exquisite Skyrian carved furniture, renowned for its beauty.
Do yourself a favor and explore the Archontopanagia Church at Sarou Square, the 10th-century Monastery of Saint George—the island’s patron saint— and the Archaeological Museum of Skyros.
For a taste of local life, Chora is bustling with tavernas, cafes, and bars, not to mention a plethora of cozy places to stay. It’s the perfect spot for your evening outings.
And when the call of the sea beckons, Magazia Beach, seamlessly blending into Molos Beach, is just a short jaunt away for a refreshing dip.
Best Hotels in Chora
- (€€€) Hotel Nefeli: a 4-star hotel with swimming pool, restaurant and free parking, 300m from the beach
- (€€) Nicolas Pension: rooms with balcony and free pakring, 900m from the center of Chora
- (€) Mavrikou Helen Apartments: apartments with balcony and garden view, in Skyros Town
2. Linaria, best area to stay in Skyros for families
Linaria serves as the welcoming gateway to Skyros, nestled on the island’s western coast about 10 kilometers away from the bustling town of Chora.
Picture this: a quaint harbor cradled in the embrace of Kalamitsa Bay, where ferries from Kymi, Volos, and other Sporades islands gently dock.
The settlement wraps around the port like a cozy blanket, with cafes, taverns, hotels, and rental rooms dotting the perimeter. It’s an ideal spot for families.
Imagine stepping out of your door to the beach each morning and being right at the heart of arrival and departure—it’s convenience wrapped in scenic beauty.
And let’s not forget the beaches. Linaria Beach, with its small stretch of turquoise waters, offers an intimate seaside escape.
Just a hop, skip, and a jump away—at merely 1.5 kilometers—you’ll find Acherounes Beach. This spot is a slice of paradise, boasting soft sands, a smattering of pebbles, and shallow waters perfect for the little ones to splash around in.
Best Hotels in Linaria
- (€€€) Aelia Collection Suites: elegant suites with swimming pool, breakfast and private beach
- (€) Pegasus Studios and Apartments: apartments and studios with kitcenette, 30m from Acherounes beach
- (€) Pansion Katerina Skyros: rooms with fully equipped kitchen, a few steps from Acherounes beach
3. Molos, best area to stay in Skyros for tourists
Molos, nestled on Skyros’ eastern coast, is a stone’s throw from the island’s heartbeat, Chora. This prime location secures its spot as the island’s second-largest settlement.
Today, Molos is a bustling hub for tourists, brimming with accommodation options ranging from cozy hotels to charming rental rooms, alongside shops, restaurants, taverns, and beach bars.
The sandy, well-organized beach here is among the island’s most beloved spots for sun-seekers.
Choosing to stay in Molos is a no-brainer if you’re hitting Skyros. Picture this: the beach right at your doorstep and Chora just a short, leisurely stroll away. It’s the perfect mix of seaside bliss and easy access to the island’s cultural jewel.
Best Hotels in Molos
- (€€€) Vina Beach Hotel: a 3-star hotel with swimming pool, breakfast and bar, 1km from Molos beach
- (€€) Almyra Guesthouse: apartments with fully eqquipped kitchen, 60m from Girismata beach
- (€) Eleana Studios: fully equiepped apartments, 60m from Molos beach
4. Aspous, a quiet area to stay in Skyros
Aspous is a serene coastal gem tucked away on the eastern shoreline of Skyros, perfectly situated a mere 4 kilometers from Chora and 6 kilometers from the port. Though it’s sparsely populated, this spot boasts an incredible beach that’s nothing short of breathtaking.
Stretching far and wide, the Aspous beach is a haven of tranquility with its fine sands and calm atmosphere. The shallow waters make it an ideal playground for little ones.
For those craving a caffeine fix or a quick snack, there’s a cozy café bar on the north end ready to serve you.
Just a short drive away, 2.5 kilometers to be precise, lies the tranquil area and beach of Achilli. This spot shares the same calm, sandy shores and shallow waters, offering a peaceful retreat.
While Aspous might not overflow with accommodation options, its strategic location between Chora and Linaria makes it a worthwhile visit, offering a slice of Skyros’ tranquil beauty.
Best Hotels in Aspous
- (€€) Dioni Hotel: a beachfront hotel with swimming pool, breakfast and bar
- (€) Sea and sun: beachfront rooms with swimming pool and free parking
- (€) Aspous Studios and Rooms: beachfront studios with small kitchen, 40m from the beach
One Response
Panteli, my wife and I are coming to Skyros on Oct 6 to 16. Although many sites say there is camping available, I can not find any information on where to make contact for information, prices and are there rooms/bungalos as well. Perhaps you would know
Thank you