The Sporades are a group of Greek islands in the Aegean Sea, known for their lush greenery, sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. The Sporades offer a variety of outdoor activities and sports for visitors who want to enjoy the natural beauty and culture of these islands. Here are some of the best outdoor activities and sports you can do in the Sporades:
Beaches
The Sporades have some of the most stunning beaches in Greece, with soft sand, turquoise water and scenic views. You can relax on the sunbeds, swim in the sea, or try some water sports like kayaking, windsurfing, jet skiing or parasailing. Some of the most popular beaches in the Sporades are:
- Koukounaries Beach on Skiathos: This is one of the most famous beaches in Greece, with golden sand and pine trees. It has a lively atmosphere, with bars, restaurants and water sports facilities.
- Panormos Beach on Skopelos: This is a long and wide beach with fine sand and clear water. It has a calm and relaxing vibe, with a taverna and a beach bar.
- Lalaria Beach on Skiathos: This is a secluded beach that can only be reached by boat. It has white pebbles, blue water and impressive rock formations. It is ideal for snorkeling and exploring the caves.
- Agios Dimitrios Beach on Alonnisos: This is a beautiful beach with coarse sand and green water. It is surrounded by hills and olive trees, and has a peaceful atmosphere.
- Milia Beach on Skopelos: This is a picturesque beach with fine sand and clear water. It has a natural shade from the pine trees, and a beach bar. It is also a good spot for watching the sunset.
Boat Tours
A boat tour is a great way to explore the Sporades islands and discover hidden coves, caves and beaches. You can choose from different types of boats, such as sailing boats, yachts, speedboats or traditional wooden boats. You can also join a guided tour or rent a boat and create your own itinerary. Some of the best boat tours in the Sporades are:
- Sail the Day – Skiathos Sailing Trips: This is a sailing company that offers daily trips around Skiathos and nearby islands. You can enjoy sailing, swimming, snorkeling and fishing, as well as a delicious lunch on board.
- Private Boat Cruise around Skiathos island: This is a private boat rental service that allows you to customize your own cruise around Skiathos island. You can visit Lalaria Beach, Tsougria Island, Kastro Beach and more, with stops for swimming and snorkeling.
- Island Hopping from Skiathos: This is a full-day tour that takes you to three different islands: Skopelos, Alonnisos and Kyra Panagia. You can admire the scenery, visit the towns and villages, and swim in the crystal-clear water.
- Skopelos Natural Beauty: This is a bus tour that combines land and sea exploration of Skopelos island. You can visit the famous church of Agios Ioannis Kastri (where Mamma Mia was filmed), see the traditional architecture of Glossa village, and enjoy a boat ride to Milia Beach.
Scuba & Snorkeling
The Sporades have an amazing underwater world, with rich marine life, colorful corals, shipwrecks and caves. Scuba diving and snorkeling are some of the best ways to experience this wonderland, whether you are a beginner or an expert. Some of the best scuba diving and snorkeling spots in the Sporades are:
- Skiathos Diving Center: This is a professional diving center that offers courses, trips and equipment rental for all levels of divers. You can dive in sites like Lalaria Cave, Tsougria Reef, Kastro Wall and more, and see octopus, moray eels, sea turtles and dolphins.
- Alonnisos Blue Dream: This is a diving center that specializes in diving in the National Marine Park of Alonnisos, which is the largest marine protected area in Europe. You can dive in sites like The Blue Cave, The Shipwreck of Peristera, The Cathedral and more, and see monk seals, tuna, barracuda and grouper.
- Skyros Scuba Diving Center: This is a diving center that offers courses, trips and equipment rental for divers of all levels. You can dive in sites like The Canyon, The Arch, The Cavern and more, and see sponges, corals, lobsters and rays.
- Skopelos Dive Center: This is a diving center that offers courses, trips and equipment rental for divers of all levels. You can dive in sites like Agnontas Reef, Stafylos Cave, Dasia Island and more, and see nudibranchs, seahorses, cuttlefish and squid.
Hiking & Biking
The Sporades have a diverse landscape, with mountains, forests, valleys and coasts. Hiking and biking are some of the best ways to explore the nature and culture of these islands, as well as to exercise and have fun. There are many trails and routes for hikers and bikers of all abilities and preferences. Some of the best hiking and biking spots in the Sporades are:
- Skiathos Hiking Trails: Skiathos has over 200 km of hiking trails that cover the whole island. You can walk through pine forests, olive groves, vineyards and orchards, and visit monasteries, churches and castles. Some of the most popular trails are Kechria Trail, Kastro Trail and Evangelistria Trail.
- Alonnisos Hiking Trails: Alonnisos has over 80 km of hiking trails that connect the villages, beaches and viewpoints of the island. You can walk through oak forests, aromatic herbs, wildflowers and olive trees, and see birds, reptiles and mammals. Some of the most popular trails are Patitiri Trail, Megalos Mourtias Trail and Votsi Trail.
- Skyros Biking Routes: Skyros has over 100 km of biking routes that cover the north and south parts of the island. You can cycle through pine forests, rocky hills, sandy beaches and traditional villages, and visit museums, monuments and churches. Some of the most popular routes are Skyros Town Route, Achilli Bay Route and Pefkos Route.
- Skopelos Biking Routes: Skopelos has over 50 km of biking routes that cover the east and west parts of the island. You can cycle through olive groves, almond trees, plum orchards and vineyards, and visit chapels, monasteries and ruins. Some of the most popular routes are Skopelos Town Route, Glossa Route and Agnontas Route.
Conclusion
The Sporades are a paradise for outdoor lovers who want to experience the beauty and diversity of these islands. Whether you prefer relaxing on the beach, sailing on the sea, diving under the water or hiking on the land, you will find something to suit your taste and mood in the Sporades.
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