The 7 Most Beautiful Spots in the Northern Sporades

The Northern Sporades officially consist of four islands: Skiathos, Skopelos, Alonissos and Skyros. But those who sail through them by boat discover a world of hidden bays, deserted beaches and rocky capes that appear in no guidebook. We have been sailing here for years and put together a definitive shortlist of places not to miss.

1. Lalaria beach, Skiathos — Only accessible by boat. White pebbles, blue sea caves carved into the cliffs and a dramatic grey-white rock wall rising straight from the water. You anchor nearby and swim ashore. On early mornings, the silence is complete — before 9am you practically have the beach to yourself. Later in the day, excursion boats arrive from Skiathos town. Those who arrive by sailing boat have the privilege of the early morning hours.

2. Panormos bay, Skopelos — A deep, sheltered bay with turquoise water and a handful of pine trees along the shore. No village, no café, no noise. Just the rattle of your anchor chain and the chirp of cicadas. The seabed is sandy and clear, perfect for swimming and snorkelling. One small taverna at the waterfront serves grilled fish and local wine.

3. Agios Ioannis chapel, Skopelos — Perched on a cliff above the sea, reached by 300 narrow stone steps. This chapel became famous as a filming location for Mamma Mia. The climb is worth it: the view over the bay and the sailing boats bobbing below is breathtaking. Arrive early — before 10am — as tour groups begin arriving after that.

4. Alonissos Chora — The medieval hilltop village of Alonissos was abandoned after a 1965 earthquake but has slowly been reborn by a small community of artists and pioneers. White facades, bougainvillea, narrow alleyways. Few tourists, plenty of atmosphere. The tavernas here are as authentic as they come.

5. Peristera island — The uninhabited islet facing Alonissos is a protected nature area within the National Marine Park. Anchorages along its eastern coast are crystal clear and sheltered from the wind. You share them with sea turtles, monk seals and the occasional dolphin. Motor boats are restricted here — sailors and rowers are welcome.

6. Skopelos town at sunset — As the sun drops behind the hills, thousands of candles light the terraces along the harbour. Fishermen return with their catch, tavernas serve grilled octopus and local ouzo flows. This is Greece as you imagined it — and it is completely real.

7. Tsougria islet, off Skiathos — A small islet with a couple of beaches on its northern coast. No permanent residents, no facilities. A perfect quiet lunch stop at anchor before the crossing toward Skopelos. The water on the western side is so calm and clear you can see the shadow of your boat on the seabed.

How to reach them all

All seven spots lie along the route of our standard island-hopping charter: 7 days, departing from Volos, three main islands. A good skipper knows exactly when to be where to make the most of each location. Early starts reward — the finest moments come at sunrise and in the late afternoon when the light turns gold.

Best time to visit

May, June and September are ideal: pleasantly warm (25–28°C), fewer crowds, stable weather. July and August are the busiest but also the most vibrant. The meltemi wind can strengthen considerably in summer — a factor your skipper accounts for when planning the daily route.

What to bring

Light clothing, swimwear, a snorkel mask, good sunscreen and evening wear for taverna dinners on the islands. For the climb to Agios Ioannis, sturdy sandals or walking shoes are recommended — those 300 steps are narrow and steep.