Skiathos, with its lush landscapes, serene beaches, and charming towns, is a walker’s paradise. The island offers a variety of walking routes, from easy coastal strolls to more challenging hikes through pine forests and rugged terrain. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing walk with beautiful views or a more adventurous trek, Skiathos has something to offer. Here are some of the best walking routes to explore on this beautiful island.

1. Skiathos Town to Megali Ammos Beach

Distance: 1.5 km (about 20 minutes)
Difficulty: Easy
Highlights: Scenic views, historical sites, beachside relaxation

This is a perfect route for those looking for a short and easy walk that combines the charm of Skiathos Town with a beautiful beach destination.

• Route Description: Start your walk from the heart of Skiathos Town, wandering through its narrow, cobbled streets. Head towards the southern end of town and follow the coastal road to Megali Ammos Beach. Along the way, you’ll enjoy views of the Aegean Sea and pass by some historical sites, including the Church of the Three Bishops.
• What to Expect: Once you reach Megali Ammos, you can relax on the sandy beach, swim in the clear waters, or enjoy a meal at one of the beachfront tavernas. This walk is perfect for a leisurely morning or afternoon outing.

2. Kastro Hike

Distance: 4 km one way (about 1.5-2 hours)
Difficulty: Moderate
Highlights: Historical ruins, stunning sea views, rugged coastline

For a walk that combines history and breathtaking scenery, the hike to Kastro is a must.

• Route Description: Begin your hike at the northern end of the island, where a well-marked path leads to the ruins of Kastro, the old medieval capital of Skiathos. The trail takes you through a mix of rugged terrain and pine forests, with occasional steep sections. As you approach Kastro, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the cliffs and the sea.
• What to Expect: The ruins of Kastro are perched dramatically on a cliff, offering stunning views of the surrounding area. Explore the remnants of the old fortress, churches, and houses, and enjoy the sense of history that permeates the site. Bring water and snacks, as there are no facilities on the way.

3. Mandraki Forest and Beaches Walk

Distance: 7-8 km round trip (about 2-3 hours)
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Highlights: Secluded beaches, pine forests, coastal scenery

This walk is ideal for nature lovers and beachgoers, offering a peaceful journey through the island’s lush interior to some of its most beautiful beaches.

• Route Description: Start your walk near the Mandraki Peninsula on the western side of the island. The trail winds through dense pine forests, providing shade and a refreshing atmosphere as you make your way to Mandraki Beach. From there, you can continue to Elia and Agistros beaches, each offering its own unique charm.
• What to Expect: The beaches on this route are less crowded than those near Skiathos Town, making them perfect for a quiet day of sunbathing and swimming. The forest trails are well-maintained and relatively easy, with some gentle inclines.

4. Evangelistria Monastery Walk

Distance: 5 km round trip (about 2 hours)
Difficulty: Moderate
Highlights: Historical monastery, mountain views, peaceful countryside

For a walk that combines spiritual history with natural beauty, the route to Evangelistria Monastery is a rewarding choice.

• Route Description: Begin your walk at the start of the road leading to the monastery, located a few kilometers north of Skiathos Town. The path takes you uphill through a scenic landscape of olive groves and forests. The road is paved, but the incline can be challenging, especially in the summer heat.
• What to Expect: Evangelistria Monastery, a significant historical and religious site, is nestled in the hills with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the sea. Explore the monastery’s peaceful courtyard, chapel, and museum, which houses artifacts related to the Greek War of Independence. There’s also a small shop selling local products like wine and olive oil.

5. Xanemos to Kechria Beach Walk

Distance: 10 km round trip (about 3-4 hours)
Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
Highlights: Coastal cliffs, secluded beaches, wildlife spotting

For a more adventurous walk that takes you off the beaten path, the route from Xanemos to Kechria Beach offers rugged beauty and solitude.

• Route Description: Start your walk at Xanemos Beach, located near the airport. From there, follow the coastal path north, which will take you past cliffs, through forests, and along remote stretches of coastline. The trail can be narrow and uneven in places, so sturdy footwear is recommended.
• What to Expect: Kechria Beach is one of the most secluded on the island, offering pristine waters and a tranquil atmosphere. Along the way, you might spot local wildlife, including birds and butterflies, making this walk a great choice for nature enthusiasts.

6. Kanapitsa Peninsula Walk

Distance: 5-6 km round trip (about 2 hours)
Difficulty: Easy
Highlights: Coastal views, tranquil beaches, island landscapes

The Kanapitsa Peninsula is a wonderful area for a relaxed coastal walk, offering stunning views of the sea and access to several beautiful beaches.

• Route Description: Begin your walk at Tzaneria Beach, and follow the path that loops around the peninsula. The route is mostly flat and easy to navigate, passing by small coves, cliffs, and pine trees. You can stop at any of the beaches along the way, such as Kanapitsa Beach or Sklithri Beach, for a swim.
• What to Expect: This walk offers a combination of scenic coastal views and quiet spots for relaxation. The paths are well-marked, and the terrain is gentle, making it accessible to most walkers.

Tips for Walking in Skiathos

• Start Early or Late: The summer sun can be intense, so it’s best to start your walks early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the midday heat.
• Stay Hydrated: Always carry plenty of water, especially on longer hikes or more remote trails.
• Wear Appropriate Footwear: Depending on the route, sturdy shoes or hiking boots are recommended, particularly for trails that involve rough or uneven terrain.
• Bring a Map: While most routes are well-marked, having a map or GPS can be helpful, especially on longer or less-traveled trails.
• Respect Nature: Skiathos is a beautiful island with diverse flora and fauna. Stick to marked paths, don’t litter, and be mindful of the environment.

Skiathos is a fantastic destination for walkers, offering a wide range of routes that cater to different levels of experience and interest. Whether you’re exploring the lively streets of Skiathos Town, hiking to historical sites, or discovering hidden beaches, walking is one of the best ways to experience the island’s natural beauty and charm. So lace up your walking shoes, grab your water bottle, and set out to explore the best of Skiathos on foot.