Skiathos Geography

Skiathos is part of the Sporades complex of islands, located next to the region of Thessaly. It lies between the coasts of Magnesia (west) and the island of Skopelos (east), and its history is strongly connected with the neighboring regions. The island has an area of 61 sq. km, is 12 km long and 6 km wide from north to south and its perimeter is 48 km. Skiathos has about 5,000 inhabitants most of whom live in the capital, Skiathos Town. The economy of the island is mainly based on tourism and fishing as well as crop and livestock farming.

The geography of Skiathos is distinguished for its lush forested areas and crystal waters offering an abundance of natural beauty. Like the other Sporades, Skiathos heavily features pine, plane, oak, and olive trees and a rich variety of plant species. The most forested part of the island is found on the eastern side and is recognized as a rare ecological habitat requiring great measures of protection.

The greatest part of the island is mountainous. Its highest peak, Stavros, is located on the northern mountain of Karafiltzanaka and rises at an altitude of 433 meters. Skiathos has many coasts, bays, inlets, and peninsulas. Along these coasts lie idyllic beaches, organized and secluded, depending on the area. The northern coasts host most of the organized beaches, with sunbeds, umbrellas, and other facilities, while beaches on the southern coasts tend to be more isolated.

The northwestern part of the island is inaccessible because of its roughness and is where the cape Kastro is located. The southeastern part of the island is completely different and very serene. Skiathos Town, the capital and harbor of the island, lies here, on the western side of the bay of the same name. The capes of Sozon and Gournes form the bay of Katavothras in the west, while the cape of Pounta forms the famous sandy beaches of Koukounaries and Platanias in the southwest. On the northern side of the island, you will find many beautiful caves, accessible only by boat.