The picturesque country of the island
The Anemoessa (windy island) of the Aegean, as Skyros is described by Homer, is an island with strong contrasts that fascinate the visitor. It combines the green color of the Sporades in its northern part with the Cycladic character in its southern part. The picturesqueness of Chora, the traditional cobblestones, the Scyrian houses full of jasmine and bougainvillea, the whitewashed terraces, and the smells literally “capture” you. Walk along the picturesque cobbled streets of Chora from the Castle and Monastery of Agios Georgios to the main square and Brook Square and feel the pulse of the island. Don’t miss visiting the shops on the cobblestones and buying souvenirs, thyme honey, and almonds, and stop for a tsipouro with Skyrian meze in the cafes on the main cobblestone street.
The deep blue beaches
The beaches of Skyros with crystal clear waters covered with sand or pebbles literally enchant you. You will find organized beaches in Magazia, Molo, Gyrismata, Kalamitsa, Acherunes, and Kyra Panagia. But there are also many unorganized beaches on the western side of the island, such as Atsitsa and Agios Fokas where the pine trees reach the sea, and Pefkos and Kolymbada on the southern side. In the green northern part of the Island, swim in Agios Petros or Theotokou beach. In the center of the Island, the beach of Aspos with its deep blue waters will offer you moments of relaxation.
Value for money destination
Skyros, in addition to the beauties it offers, is also a value for money destination, as both the ferry and plane tickets are at quite economical prices. As far as food and accommodation are concerned, there are several advantageous options that you can find when you decide to visit the island. Skyros is definitely a choice for relaxation and “recharge” that will satisfy even the most demanding visitor.
The archaeological and folklore museum of M. Faltaits
The Museum was founded in 1964 by Manos Faltaits and is one of the first local Historical – Folklore Museums in Greece. It was created with the aim of saving the Skyrian traditional heritage. It includes all the traditional culture and history of the island, from the post-Byzantine period to the modern era, and contains, among other things, rare books, clothing, documents, and an authentic representation of a Skyrian house.
The rich traditional gastronomy
The main characteristic of the island is the rich and traditional gastronomy. Taste the butter pies with honey or cheese, the delicious goat cheese, graviera, and sour cheese, the delicious lobster pasta, the teropitaria and the pies, her handmade pasta with mint and grated Myzithra, fava beans, and her honey. If you are invited to a wedding or christening, you will enjoy the special loukoumades with honey.
The Scyrian horses
The Skyrian Horse is an important symbol of the Skyrian tradition and is identified with the cultural heritage and daily life of the Skyrians. It belongs to one of the rarest breeds of horses and is considered a descendant of the horses that Achilles had with him in Troy. It is connected to the horses of Alexander the Great, while they argue that it is connected to the horses depicted in the Panathenaic procession, on the frieze of the Parthenon. It is strong, sociable, social, robust, and intelligent, with particularly friendly behavior and today it belongs to the protected species. The European Union has included them among the rare breeds of farm animals and funds initiatives aimed at their protection. One can visit the Scyrian horses at private farms that host them and take care of their feeding and reproduction.
The Palamari archaeological site
On the N.E coast of Skyros, there is an entire settlement at the location of Palamari, with free entry for everyone, since it is considered one of the attractions of the island. It shows the excavations of a Bronze Age settlement. This ancient settlement remained buried under the sand for 3,500 years, while to this day its name is not known. The settlement had the form of an organized and fortified city, of which a large part has now been submerged. Most of the findings of the settlement are exhibited in the archaeological museum of Skyros.
The castle of Skyros
The Castle of Skyros is located at the highest point of Chora, on a rock 179 meters high. According to the legend on the rock was the ancient acropolis and the seat of King Lycomedes. There, the most important historical events of the island took place from the Mycenaean era up to the 19th century and the castle was the refuge of the inhabitants during this period. On the first level of the Castle town, there is the Monastery of Agios Georgios (963 AD) of the Patron Saint of Skyros and a part of the fortification, while on the second level, there is the restored Episkopi Church (895 AD), medieval water reservoirs, ruins of buildings as well as an important part of the fortification. In this place, you can enjoy the enchanting sunset with a view of Magazia and the vast Aegean.
Alternative tourism
In Skyros, you can experience the vacation of your dreams. You can wander around the Island enjoying the unique experience of riding with specially trained horses and visiting the farms that host the Scyrian horses. You can walk on paths relaxing in the Skyrian nature or even go rock climbing. If you are a fan of diving, and water sports such as windsurfing and kitesurfing, head to the southern beaches of the island. If you choose sailing and snorkeling, off-road routes with a motorbike or 4×4, Skyros is your destination. And don’t forget to live the experience by participating in one of the Skyrian festivals that take place in the summer season or experience the Skyrian Carnival with the Elders, Koreles, and Franks.
The perfect destination for isolation and relaxation
According to a CNN article, Skyros is included in the 10 islands of Europe that offer isolation, detoxification from the intense rhythms of the city, and absolute relaxation. Explore the island and also enjoy sea trips to the nearby islets of Sarakinikos, swim in the caves or in the turquoise waters of Agalipa, or take a boat tour of the island. All you need is a good mood to enjoy the tranquility of the landscape that unfolds around you.
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