Skopelos Maps

Skopelos is the largest island of the Sporades group, located between Skiathos and Alonissos in the northwest Aegean Sea. The island covers 37 square miles and has a permanent population of approximately 5,000 residents. Skopelos Town (Chora), the capital and main port, is built amphitheatrically on a hillside on the southeast coast, featuring traditional architecture with stone and tile-roofed houses, narrow streets, and numerous churches. The town is considered one of the most beautiful in Greece.

The waterfront of Skopelos Town features a line of tavernas and cafes, with the old town climbing the hillside behind. Above the town, ruins of a Venetian kastro occupy the site of the ancient acropolis. The island claims to have 360 churches and chapels, many quite small and scattered throughout the countryside. Glossa, the island's second settlement, is located on the northwest coast on a hillside above Loutraki port, preserving traditional architecture and a more tranquil atmosphere.

Skopelos is heavily forested, with dense pine forests, fruit orchards (particularly plums, which are used to produce local spoon sweets and prunes), and olive groves covering much of the island. The landscape is greener and more lush than typical Aegean islands. The island gained international recognition as the primary filming location for "Mamma Mia!" (2008), with the small chapel of Agios Ioannis Kastri (St. John), perched dramatically on a sea rock near Glossa, becoming an iconic image from the film and a popular tourist attraction.

Beaches line the sheltered southern and western coasts, including Stafylos, Velanio, and Panormos, mostly consisting of pebbles. The island has maintained more traditional character compared to neighboring Skiathos, with tourism development more moderate and focused on natural beauty rather than party atmosphere. Local products include honey, olive oil, wine, and traditional cheese. Ferry connections link Skopelos to Skiathos, Alonissos, and mainland ports of Volos and Agios Konstantinos.

The Facts:
Region: Thessaly.
Regional unit: Sporades.
Cities: Skopelos, Glossa, Neo Klima, Stafylos, Agnondas, Panormos, Ananias, Klima, Atheato, Loutraki, Kalogiros, and Myloi.
Population: ~ 5,000.
Area: 37 sq mi (96 sq km).