Travel guide – skopelos


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Overview

Skopelos is situated just east of Skiathos and is the largest island of the Sporades group, at 12 miles (19km) long and six miles (10km) across. The fertile island is dominated by lush hills, thick pine forests and olive groves, which in many places descend down to the shoreline and make Skopelos an excellent island for exploring on foot. Skopelos Town is a collection of charming, whitewashed houses that cling to a steep hill behind the harbour, crowned by an old fort. The town is home to more than 100 of the island's 380 churches. There are many beaches to choose from on Skopelos; most can be reached by public bus, but some only by boat. Skopelos is quieter and less well known than its neighbour Skiathos, offering a more laid-back, relaxing, and romantic atmosphere, which is ideal for those looking to get away from it all.

Climate

Like all the Sporadic Islands Skopelos enjoys hot, dry summers and mild winters. Temperatures in July and August range from 82ºF (28ºC) during the day to 72ºF (22ºC) at night. Rainfall is unlikely in summer but showers can be expected between September and May. All of the northern Sporadic Islands are subject to a strong wind blowing from the north, as a result most of the beaches on these islands are found on the sheltered southern sides.

Health

There are no specific health risks in Greece, but visitors who plan to walk through forested areas are advised to consider vaccination against tick-borne encephalitis. Medical facilities in Greece vary; those in major cities are excellent but many of the islands are some distance from a decent hospital. Food and water are safe, but those visiting for short periods should consider sticking to bottled water. UK nationals are entitled to a refund on emergency hospital treatment under a reciprocal agreement between the UK and Greece, and a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) should be taken on holiday for this purpose. Despite this, all visitors are advised to take out medical insurance. Yellow fever vaccination certificates are required for those arriving from infected areas. Bird flu was detected in swans in northern Greece in February 2006, but stringent measures have been taken to contain the outbreak; no human infections have been reported. The risk to people is believed to be very low, but visitors are advised to avoid any contact with caged, wild or domestic birds, and to ensure that all poultry and egg dishes are well cooked as a precaution.

The basics

Getting Around

Small as it is, most visitors to Skopelos enjoy strolling around the island on foot. For those in a hurry, renting a scooter or car is possible with several agencies in the town. The main road that runs across the island from Glossa to Skopelos Town has public buses plying up and down, and beachgoers can also opt to travel in wooden caiques from the harbour in town to their chosen beach.

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Travel Guide by www.wordtravels.com
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