SKIATHOS
Skiathos is the most well-known island in the Sporades. Its reputation for having great nightlife, however, must not distract from its intrinsic beauty. There are long, golden coasts that are among the most beautiful in all of Greece. The island does not have particularly varied nature and is relatively flat, but it is green and intensely cultivated with vineyards and orchards, which alternate with pine forests that descend to the sea.
History
Skiathos and many islands in this part of the Aegean were invaded many times throughout history. Starting from the Pelasgians then the Athenians, Spartans and Macedonians. During the Roman and Byzantine domination, the island experienced relative tranquillity while in the Middle Ages it suffered great losses and became impoverished due to the repeated pirate raids.
During Venetian domination, the Ghisi brothers built walls and a Kastro to try and defend the island and the unarmed population. In 1538 the Ottoman Turks began to occupy the island and they actually made it even poorer, they continued to rule until 1829 when the Ottomans finally withdrew from all Greek land. The island is small but there are many places such as the island's Chora, which is a charming village, formed of new and traditional three-story houses with slate or terracotta roofs. Also, the Bourtzi is an ancient citadel built by the Venetians that has now been incorporated into the port where summer concerts and events are organized.
Beaches
The Meltemi wind that blows across all of the Greek islands, should not be feared on this island because most of the beaches are sheltered from it although it still helps to alleviate the summer heat. The beaches can rival the Caribbean and are characteristic of Skiathos, such as the Koukounaries beach which is one of the most beautiful in Greece, it is very well equipped and is generally very crowded. Lalaria has wonderful white pebbles, while Agia Paraskevi is the classic family beach with shallow waters. The windy northern side of the island is suitable for windsurfers and kite surfers.