SPORADES ISLANDS
The Sporades Islands are one of the most beautiful places in Greece. They are not crowded in the summer like the Cyclades, but the sea is just as the blue and the backdrops just as wonderful. 'Sporades' means scattered, as the islands are arranged in a scattered form in comparison to the Cycladic archipelago which forms a circle. The Sporades are also much greener and more fertile with vineyards, forests and pine forests in comparison to the Cycladic Islands. The Sporades archipelago is made up of eleven islands that were once connected to the mainland. They have a unique microclimate climate due to their proximity to the mainland and the coasts of Evia and Pelion.
The islands
The most well-known islands are Skiathos, Skopelos, Alonissos and Skyros and the other, smaller islands are mostly uninhabited. The flora and fauna is brilliant inland and you can trek through mountains, valleys, and rivers. There are some excellent rugged, windy coasts that are perfect for sports like windsurfing and kitesurfing and the seabed offers plenty for divers and fisherman. If you are looking for some peace and quiet, you can still find some lesser known beaches with wonderful water. But if you are a lover of nightlife then the Sporades islands will be paradise, Skiathos and Skopelos are the best for bars, clubs and parties until dawn. The sea is turquoise and transparent like a swimming pool. Some beaches offer fine, golden sand such as those on Alonissos, while Skiathos has little pebble beaches. These islands are an ideal holiday destination for those who want to be surrounded by a crystal clear sea and also have plenty to do at night.