1. St. Ioannis at Kastri chapel
The picturesque chapel of St. Ioannis at Kastri is an attraction that no one should miss when visiting Skopelos. It became widely known from the wedding scene of the movie Mamma Mia. Just before you reach the village of Glossa, on your right hand, you will see the road leading to the chapel. It lies at the top of a cliff and you will have to climb some 110 steps carved into the stone to reach it.
2. The village of Glossa
Glossa is the second-largest settlement on Skopelos. As you can see on the map of Skopelos, it is built on the hill above the port of Loutraki. The village is also known as the balcony of Skopelos, offering spectacular views of Skiathos and Pelion. Don’t miss out a visit to the Folklore Museum of Glossa as well.
3. The Monastery of St. Riginos
At about 4 km southwest of Chora Skopelos lies the monastery of Saint Riginos, the patron Saint of the island of Skopelos. The Monastery houses the holy relics of the Saint who became a martyr in the 4th century. He is commemorated on February 25th, which is a local holiday on the island. It is well worth visiting the Monastery on that day to attend the local rites that include litanies and processions.
4. The Folklore Museum of Skopelos (Chora)
Discover the rich cultural heritage and folk culture of Skopelos island. The Folklore Museum of Chora Skopelos is a fascinating glimpse into the past of the island. Its collection includes a series of icons, embroidery, paintings, ceramics, photographs, traditional costumes, tools, wood-carved furniture and more. It is housed in the Vakratsa Mansion (Chora).
Tel: +30 24240 23494. Entrance fee: € 3
5. The Asclepieion of Skopelos (Chora)
In ancient Greece, an Asclepieion was a healing temple, dedicated to Asclepius, the first doctor-demigod in Greek mythology. Considered as the oldest Asclepieion in the Aegean Sea, recent excavations uncovered relics that are currently exhibited within the site. Rigas Hotel Skopelos is located near the Asclepieion.
6. The Natural Marine Park of Northern Sporades
It is currently the largest protected marine area in Europe (2.260km2 approx.). The park is a primary habitat for many species of fish (about 300), birds (about 80 species), reptiles and mammals. A safe haven for monk seals Monachus-Monachus, turtles Caretta-Caretta, dolphins, and sperm whales.
7. Drakontoschisma
Drakontoschisma means Dragon’s Cleft. Legend has it that Saint Riginos chased away a ferocious dragon that was killing the locals and destroying the island. He forced the dragon into a cleft that opened up in the mountain. Eventually, the dragon fell off the cliff and died. As seen on the Skopelos map, Drakontoschisma is between Stafylos and Amarantos beach. Access is possible only by boat.
8. Sendoukia, the pirate graves
Sendoukia (chests in Greek) are ancient pirate graves carved into the rock. It is one of Skopelos’ most fascinating and enigmatic attractions. They are located on one of the highest points in Skopelos, on the mountain of Karya. Many stories are heard about hidden treasures, buried in the cliff that reaches the sea.
Blue Green Bay Lodging and Panormos Bay
9. Panormos Bay – Beach
Visit the beautiful Bay of Panormos, awarded with a Blue Flag. Panormos is a large, enclosed bay with a little pebble coast and crystal-clear waters. It is the absolute place to enjoy a great swim. Try the local cuisine with views over the bay at the Ormos Mezze Bar Restaurant.
10. The Town of Skopelos (Chora)
The town of Skopelos is also known as Chora. As shown on the map of Skopelos, it is located on the east side of the island. Climb up its cobblestone streets to reach the walls of the 13th-century Venetian castle of Gyzi and the quiet little squares with the Aegean Sea in the background. On the other hand, the area around the beach and the harbor is bustling. There is an organized yacht marina, taverns, restaurants, pizzerias, pastry shops, caffes, bars, banks, ATMs and many commercial and tourist shops.