If you are looking for a unique and memorable way to remember your trip to the Sporades islands, you might want to consider buying some of the local products and handicrafts that reflect the culture and history of these beautiful islands. The Sporades are a group of four large islands (Skiathos, Skopelos, Alonissos and Skyros) and several small and uninhabited islets in the northern part of the Aegean Sea, southeast of Mount Pelion. They are known for their lush green landscapes, sandy beaches, crystal clear waters and traditional villages. Each island has its own charm and personality, and offers a variety of souvenirs and gifts that you can take home with you or offer to your loved ones. Here are some of the best things to buy from the Sporades:
Skiathos
Skiathos is the most popular and cosmopolitan island of the Sporades, famous for its nightlife, beaches and natural beauty. It is also the birthplace of Alexandros Papadiamantis, one of the most prominent Greek writers of the 19th century. Some of the souvenirs and gifts that you can buy from Skiathos are:
- Papadiamantis House Museum: You can visit the house where Papadiamantis lived and wrote his novels and short stories, and buy some of his books or souvenirs related to his life and work. The museum is located in the town of Skiathos, near the port.
- Olive oil and honey: Skiathos produces high-quality olive oil and honey, which are essential ingredients of the Mediterranean diet. You can find them in local shops or directly from the producers. They make great gifts for food lovers.
- Local wine and tsipouro: Skiathos has a long tradition of wine making, dating back to ancient times. You can taste and buy some of the local varieties, such as Mandilaria, Roditis and Savatiano, or try the strong distilled spirit tsipouro, which is made from grape pomace.
- Handmade pottery: Skiathos has a rich pottery tradition, influenced by the ancient Greek and Byzantine art. You can find beautiful handmade ceramics, such as vases, plates, cups, bowls and decorative items, in various shapes, colors and designs.
- Mamma Mia souvenirs: Skiathos was one of the filming locations of the hit musical movie Mamma Mia, starring Meryl Streep and Pierce Brosnan. You can buy souvenirs inspired by the movie, such as T-shirts, hats, bags, magnets, postcards and more.
Skopelos
Skopelos is the largest and greenest island of the Sporades, renowned for its scenic landscapes, picturesque villages and rich cultural heritage. It is also known as the island of music and poetry, as it has produced many famous musicians, poets and artists. Some of the souvenirs and gifts that you can buy from Skopelos are:
- Cheese pies: Skopelos is famous for its delicious cheese pies (tyropites), which are made with fresh local cheese, eggs, flour and herbs. You can find them in bakeries or taverns all over the island. They are a perfect snack or appetizer.
- Plums and plum products: Skopelos is also known for its plums (damaskina), which are cultivated in large quantities on the island. You can buy fresh or dried plums, or try some of the products made from them, such as jam, liqueur, spoon sweets or pastries.
- Olive wood items: Skopelos has many olive trees, which provide not only olive oil but also wood for carving. You can find beautiful olive wood items, such as bowls, spoons, cutting boards, candle holders and ornaments.
- Folk art: Skopelos has a rich folk art tradition, especially in embroidery, weaving and painting. You can admire and buy some of the exquisite handcrafted items that showcase the skills and creativity of the local artisans.
- Mamma Mia souvenirs: Skopelos was also one of the filming locations of Mamma Mia movie. You can visit some of the spots where the movie was shot, such as the Agios Ioannis chapel, the Kastani beach or the Glossa village, and buy souvenirs related to the movie.
Alonissos
Alonissos is the most remote and tranquil island of the Sporades, ideal for nature lovers and eco-tourists. It is part of the National Marine Park of Alonissos and Northern Sporades, which is the largest marine protected area in Europe and home to many rare species of flora and fauna. Some of the souvenirs and gifts that you can buy from Alonissos are:
- Monk seal products: Alonissos is one of the few places in the world where you can see the endangered Mediterranean monk seal (monachus monachus), which is the emblem of the island and the marine park. You can buy products that support the conservation of this species, such as T-shirts, mugs, stickers, books and more.
- Herbs and herbal products: Alonissos has a rich variety of herbs, such as sage, thyme, oregano, lavender, mint and chamomile, which grow wild on the island. You can buy them fresh or dried, or try some of the products made from them, such as tea, soap, oil, honey or cosmetics.
- Fish and seafood: Alonissos has a long fishing tradition and a reputation for its fresh and tasty fish and seafood. You can enjoy them in local restaurants or buy them from the fish market or directly from the fishermen. You can also find canned or smoked fish, such as tuna, sardines or anchovies.
- Local wine and tsipouro: Alonissos also produces its own wine and tsipouro, which are made from local grapes. You can taste and buy some of the local labels, such as Alonissos Red, Alonissos White or Alonissos Rose.
- Pirate souvenirs: Alonissos has a history of pirate attacks, which influenced its architecture and culture. You can learn more about this aspect of the island’s past in the Pirate Museum in Patitiri, and buy some pirate-themed souvenirs, such as hats, flags, swords or costumes.
Skyros
Skyros is the southernmost and most isolated island of the Sporades, with a distinctive character and culture. It is known for its folklore, mythology and traditions, as well as its natural beauty and diversity. Some of the souvenirs and gifts that you can buy from Skyros are:
- Skyrian horses: Skyros is famous for its unique breed of small horses (skyrianoi alogoi), which are considered to be descendants of ancient horses that lived on the island. You can see them in their natural habitat or in farms, and buy souvenirs related to them, such as figurines, magnets, postcards or books.
- Skyrian pottery: Skyros has a long tradition of pottery making, dating back to prehistoric times. You can find impressive Skyrian pottery items, such as jars, plates, bowls and vases, decorated with geometric patterns or motifs inspired by nature or mythology.
- Skyrian embroidery: Skyros also has a rich tradition of embroidery (skyriana kentimata), which is used to adorn clothes, linens and household items. You can admire and buy some of the intricate and colorful Skyrian embroidery items, such as tablecloths, napkins, pillowcases or curtains.
- Cheese and dairy products: Skyros produces excellent cheese and dairy products from goat’s milk. You can taste and buy some of the local varieties, such as manouri (soft cheese), graviera (hard cheese), anthotyro (fresh cheese) or yogurt.
- Aegean Festival souvenirs: Skyros hosts every summer the Aegean Festival (Aigaiou Festa), which is a cultural event that showcases the music, dance, theater and art of Skyros and other Aegean islands. You can attend some of the performances or exhibitions and buy souvenirs related to the festival.
Conclusion
The Sporades islands are a great destination for anyone who wants to experience the authentic Greek island life. They offer not only stunning natural beauty but also rich cultural heritage and local products that you can enjoy during your stay or take home with you as souvenirs or gifts. Whether you choose Skiathos, Skopelos, Al
