Small Boutique hotels in SPORADES ISLANDS

The name of this archipelago in the northwest of the Aegean Sea in Greece refers to the dispersion of the islands that spread like spores across the sea as they disintegrated from the mainland. Of the eleven islands, only four are inhabited. The Sporades are a first-rate ecological protection area. The National Marine Park Reserve shelters unique species such as loggerhead sea turtles (caretta caretta) and colonies of monk seals. The marine caves on the island of Alónissos constitute an untouched refuge.

Skópelos is one of the largest islands, popularized by the filming of the movie Mamma Mia . Mountainous and fertile, the incredible landscapes of olive trees, vineyards, and forests, are only humbled by a splendid coast lapped by crystalline waters.

The capital Skópelos sits between two hills like an amphitheater. White architecture with reddish roofs and labyrinthine streets winding upwards, the folk and civilian buildings mix with palaces of Macedonian and neoclassical influence. Among the wonderful Orthodox churches is the famous and cinematographic Agios Ioannis.

Skiathos is the other big island. In addition to the wonderful places and idyllic beaches like Koukounarés, its famous for lively party nights. For craft-work lovers, Skyros the manual tradition of basketwork and wood carving still survives. Charming boutique hotels guarantee spectacular views of the Aegean Sea.