Experience the best of Skiathos

Skiathos, the westernmost of the main Sporades, lies just off the Pelion peninsula of mainland Greece and is covered in pine woods that run down to the sea. Skiathos Town sits on two small harbours separated by a headland, with white houses, tavernas and a small peninsula, Bourtzi, which once held a fortress. The writer Alexandros Papadiamantis was born on the island, and his house is a museum.

Koukounaries, with fine sand beneath umbrella pines, is the most famous beach, and Lalaria, on the north coast, is a crescent of white pebbles reached by boat, with sea arches in the cliffs. Kastro, an abandoned town on a headland in the north, with ruined churches and houses, was the island's refuge from pirates in the 16th and 17th centuries. Boat trips go to neighbouring Skopelos and Alonissos, where a national marine park protects monk seals.

Cheese pies, grilled fish, octopus and sweet pastries are the island's tastes, with ouzo and local honey. Ferries from the mainland and summer flights bring visitors, and the sea warms up from June, so the island is liveliest in July and August.