Skyros
8.7€
From KymiMeet The Windy Island Of The Aegean
Skyros is located in the east of Evia and is the southernmost and largest island of the Sporades. It is connected by ferry to the port of Kymi in Evia, while it has an airport that serves flights from Athens and Thessaloniki as well as international destinations. It is a beautiful island in the heart of the Aegean with a picturesque and authentic character, centuries-old history, and rich cultural heritage. It combines the wild beauty of the mountain with the calmness of the sea, always giving a reason to visit it. Forests cover 32% of Skyros and consist mainly of pines. The largest settlement is the village (Chora) named Skyros, where 95% of the island is concentrated, with many interesting things, such as the Skyrian houses, each of which is a small museum, the picturesque cobblestones, the ancient castle, the Monastery of St. George, and the small churches in the cobblestone streets. The great wealth of folkloric and archaeological findings and evidence, with deep roots in history and mythology, keeps alive the residents’ pride in their origin.
The first image of the visitor traveling on the ACHILLES ship starts from the port of Linaria, one of the most complete ports famous for its facilities and hospitality.
If you are looking for a destination with a perfect tourist organization where you will enjoy many interesting activities during your vacation, then Skyros is what you are looking for and fully meets every financial possibility. Horse riding in the Skyrian nature, hiking on natural paths, swimming in the clear blue beaches with golden sands or white pebbles, diving, fishing, and cycling create the perfect setting for your vacation. Also, the Skyrian cuisine in the picturesque taverns will win you over from the first moment. And as far as night entertainment is concerned, don’t forget to visit the bars in Chora, on the central cobbled street or the Square and have fun until the morning.
- THE SKYRIAN FESTIVALS AND THE SKYRIAN CARNIVAL
- ACTIVITIES
Skyros is known for its festivals, most of which are in the summer. There is always a commissioner who undertakes the organization of the festival, and this is considered a great honor for the Skyrians. Free goat, lambs, goats are served which are cooked in large cauldrons braised with rice, and of course, the white and red wine flows abundantly. The festivals are accompanied by traditional Skyrian songs sung by many people together – usually, the oldest ones start, and the others follow.
The most popular festivals are:
- Of the Holy Trinity (movable feast) in the Nyfi after Kalamitsa.
- July 26. Saint Panteleimon, in Marmaros above Pefkos.
- July 26 Of Saint Panteleimon in Trachy, near the airport.
- July 26. Of Saint Ermolaos, which is located on the islet opposite the Molos area. You can take a boat to the islet and then watch the song and dance festival back at the Pier.
- August 14. The Virgin Mary of Meglou (Meglou region) above Acherunes.
- August 16 of Saint Myron, in a small church located in the forest.
- September 2 of Saint Mama.
- September 8th of Panagia Spiliotissa.
- October 20 of Saint Artemis over Achilles.
Skyros, also, has its honor and the during the carnival season.
The Skyrian Carnival includes the oldest rural custom of spring, the “Dance of the Elders”, which according to folklorists, symbolizes the rebirth of nature. The custom has its roots in the Dionysian cult and the rural and pastoral life of the island, with Geros, Corella, and Frago as leading figures. The Skyrian carnival culminates on Clean Monday with the custom of Trata, with the recitation of satirical verses about current events. Then you could participate in the dance that unfolds in the central square of Chora in traditional costumes.
We would like to thank Nikolao Fano for the photo.
In addition to an island that exudes tranquility and relaxation, Skyros offers several activities for those who visit it, which will make you get to know the island even more.
#1 Windsurfing and Kitesurfing for water sports enthusiasts
The southern part of Skyros lends itself to such water sports, as it often has winds that enhance these activities.
#2 Visit farms with Skyrian horses
Skyrian horses are an endangered species and are therefore protected by the island’s residents. Visit the farms where they live to see and feed them.
#3 Hiking and Climbing
If you are fond of hiking and climbing, explore the green paths as well as the rocky sites. Skyros combines both.
#4 Sea excursions
The blue-green waters and rocky shores offered by the surrounding islands and coasts are something that will surely leave you with unique impressions.
