Posted by The island of Skyros is the largest island in the Sporades archipelago in Greece, with an area of 210 km². It is the southernmost and the most distant Sporades island from the mainland. Skyros has about 2,900 inhabitants in 2025, of which about 2,000 live in the capital, Skyros Town. The rest of the island, especially the south, is sparsely populated. Tourism is only moderately developed. Skyros is very windy, especially in summer, which hinders tourism development.
Image: Dimitrios Rizopoulos – Fotolia.com
Linaria: All ferries arrive in the small port town of Linaria. The town has a few guesthouses and taverns, but otherwise there is not much going on. Most holidaymakers take the bus to Skyros Town, which is waiting when the ferries arrive.
Capital: The beautiful capital of Skyros is in the east of the island. Typical Greek island architecture with narrow streets, white houses and many small shops. The town is very reminiscent of the Cyclades. The residents are very friendly. You can easily spend a few days here. Above the town stands a castle from the 13th century and a monastery.
South of the island of Skyros: The almost deserted south of the island is ideal for hikers. However, you should have some experience, as the area is very isolated, there is hardly any drinking water and the mountainous terrain is dangerous. An endangered breed of horse, the Skyros pony, lives here. With a shoulder height of about 1 meter, it is the smallest horse breed in the world. The Skyros pony is under strict protection; there are currently only 400 animals. If you are lucky, you might see one of these horses in the lonely south of the island.
Buses on the island of Skyros
There are several buses between Linaria and Skyros and between the airport and the capital. Fares are low. If you want to explore the whole island, it is better to rent a car or a moped. In the city, the bus station is located south of the center.
Map of Skiros (Sporades, Greece)
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Skiros is the island in the Northern Sporades (also: Magnesian Islands) that is furthest from the mainland. The small islands in the area such as Skyropoula, Erinia, Valaxa and Sarakino are uninhabited, as is Skantzoura 15 km to the north. |
Ferry to the island of Skyros
The island of Skyros can be reached by ferry 1-2 times a day from Kimi on the Euboea peninsula. There are good bus connections to Athens from Kimi. You can also buy a bus ticket to Athens on Skyros. The bus waits directly at the port in Kimi. If there is only one crossing per day, the ship usually leaves the mainland in the morning and Skyros in the late afternoon. It is a large car ferry. The journey takes about 100 minutes. About three times a week there is also a ferry connection from Skyros to two other Sporades islands: Alonissos Greece and Skopelos Greece.
Flights to Skyros
There are several flights per week from Athens and Thessaloniki to Skyros. A flight to Athens costs about 50-60 euros, to Thessaloniki about 80 euros.
Top 10 Skyros Sights and Attractions
1. Chora (Skyros Town)
The picturesque capital sits on a hill with white houses, narrow streets and impressive views of the Aegean Sea. Highlights include:
Kastro: The remains of a Venetian fortress.
Agios Georgios Monastery: A historic monastery with breathtaking views.
2. Magazia and Molos
The island’s most popular beaches stretch for several kilometers and offer fine sand, crystal clear water and taverns and cafes for relaxing hours.
3. Faltaits Museum
This folk museum in Chora provides insights into the history, culture and traditional life on Skyros. It displays clothing, tools, furniture and handicrafts.
4. Atsitsa
An idyllic village on the west coast, surrounded by pine forests and small bays. The place is ideal for nature and water sports lovers, especially windsurfers and sailors.
5. Skyros Ponies
The unique ponies, a rare breed of horse, are a highlight for animal lovers. Visit one of the farms or watch the ponies in the wild.
6. Agios Fokas
A secluded, quiet beach with a small chapel and untouched nature. Perfect for relaxation and breathtaking sunsets.
7. Nature hikes
The island offers varied hiking trails:
In the green north through pine forests.
In the barren south through impressive landscapes and with great sea views.
8. Ceramic and wood carving art
Visit local workshops and markets to discover authentic handmade ceramics and artfully carved wooden furniture.
9. Skyros Carnival (Apokries)
If you travel in February or March, experience the traditional carnival, a unique cultural festival with masks, dances and customs.
10. Achili Bay
A picturesque bay with calm waters, ideal for snorkeling and a relaxing day away from the big beaches. It also has some good fish tavernas.
Skyros Ponies
The ponies are a rare and unique breed of horse found exclusively on the Greek island of Skyros. They are an important part of the island’s culture and history and are considered to be one of the smallest breeds of horse in the world.
Skyros Ponies Characteristics
Size: They reach a shoulder height of around 100 to 120 cm, making them one of the smallest breeds of pony.
Build: They have a robust, compact build, strong legs and a small head with large, expressive eyes.
Coat Colors: Coat colors vary from brown, black and gray to fawn tones.
Origin and history
The Skyros ponies are a very old breed of horse that has probably lived on the island since ancient times. They may have descended from horses used by the ancient Greeks for agricultural work, transport or war. Archaeological finds such as reliefs and vases show similar small horses.
Lifestyle
Traditionally, the Skyros ponies lived semi-wild in the southern, barren areas of the island. There they were able to adapt to the harsh environment. Today there are still some free-living herds, but many ponies are kept in small enclosures.
Threats and protection
The population of the Skyros ponies has declined sharply and the breed is considered endangered. The reasons for this are:
The decline in agricultural use, which has caused the ponies to lose their previous function.
The limited genetic diversity due to the small population.
There are now initiatives that aim to ensure the survival of the breed, such as the Skyrian Horse Society program, which runs protection and breeding programs.
Tourist Activities
Visitors to Skyros have the opportunity to experience the ponies up close:
Farm Visits: There are farms that offer guided tours and horse riding trips.
Wildlife Observation: Some herds can be observed in the southern regions of the island.
Ceramics and Wood Carving Skyros Island
The island has a long history of handicraft traditions, particularly in the areas of ceramics and wood carving. These art forms are deeply rooted in the island’s culture and reflect the artisanal skill and creativity of the locals.
Ceramics of Skyros
Ceramic art on Skyros is known for its functional and decorative pieces, often using traditional motifs and techniques.
Characteristics of Skyrian Ceramics:
1.Designs and Patterns:
Often decorated with geometric patterns, floral motifs or traditional symbols such as birds and fish.
Some designs are inspired by ancient models.
2.Technique:
Potters shape the vessels by hand or on the potter’s wheel before painting and glazing them.
The color palette is mostly simple, with natural colors such as brown, white and red.
3.Applications:
In addition to decorative pieces, there are also everyday items such as plates, jugs, bowls and vases.
Where to buy?
Chora: The capital’s workshops produce the most beautiful pieces.
Small markets: Handmade ceramics are available in local markets and make perfect souvenirs.
Wood carving on Skyros
Wood carving is one of the oldest craft traditions on the island and has a special place in Skyrian culture.
Features and techniques:
1.Materials:
Mainly wood from olive trees or pine trees is used, as it is abundant on the island.
2.Traditional designs:
Typical are intricate patterns and ornaments, often depicting religious or cultural symbols.
Furniture such as beds, chests and chairs are richly decorated and are often used in Skyros homes.
3.Small works of art:
Hand-carved miniatures, such as animals or traditional scenes, are popular.
Wooden frames, jewelry boxes and small sculptures are also typical products.
Special feature: Skyros furniture
The intricately carved wooden furniture is famous and is often passed down as heirlooms. It shows the islanders’ special love of detail.
Sightseeing and shopping
Museums: Visit local museums to learn more about the history of wood carving and ceramics.
Workshops: Some artisans invite visitors into their workshops to experience the manufacturing process.
Local shops: Many shops in Chora and other villages offer authentic handmade products.
Importance of handicrafts for Skyros
Ceramics and wood carving are not only economically important, but also an important part of Skyros’ identity. These art forms combine tradition and modernity and offer visitors the opportunity to take a piece of the island home with them.
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