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About Sporades

Just east of the mainland, the four Sporades Islands are perhaps lesser-known than Greece’s Cyclades or Dodecanese — but that makes them all the more special. Forested, green and hilly, fringed with rocky coves and gorgeous beaches, these are wonderful destinations for seaside holidays, hiking adventures and culture-focused escapes. They are also still relatively under-developed in comparison to Greece’s hotspots, so you’ll find many of the best places to stay in the Sporades Islands appealingly laid-back and affordable, particularly in the spring and autumn months.

Surrounded by clear seas, lush Skiàthos was the first of the islands to become popular with holidaymakers in the 1960s. You’ll find most of the island’s resorts and hotels in the buzzy south, whilst the north remains tranquil and relatively unexplored — ideal for hikers and nature lovers. Neighbouring Skopelos is big and peaceful, with two mountains over 500m, and an interior studded with vineyards, olive groves and orchards brimming with plum and almond trees. Skyros on the other hand, is known for its birdlife and wild horses, as well as its burgeoning traditional craft scene.

The least-visited of the group, Alonnisos, is surrounded by a 2260-sq-km National Marine Park, and particularly attractive for keen divers, swimmers and snorkellers, who can discover a whole world underwater. Back on land, the islands are home to some excellent museums, ancient ruins and modern boutiques and eateries. This is a charming part of Greece, and the best places to stay in the Sporades Islands are perfect for guests of all ages to enjoy.

The Best Places to Stay in the Sporades

For Romance

  • Armonia Rooms, on Alonnisos, has minimalist, contemporary interiors with breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea. Expect white and cream tones, natural materials and lovely beamed ceilings in airy rooms. Book a guest room with private balcony and pool for the ultimate honeymoon hideaway.
  • Atrium Hotel has chic, white-on-white rooms with polished wooden floors and beamed ceilings, perfect for a romantic break. The ocean views from floor-to-ceiling windows and private balconies are dazzling, and the refreshing pool is a wonderful place to wile away an afternoon on Skiáthos. Expect superb Mediterranean cuisine at the restaurant, and cracking cocktails at the bar.
  • Infinity 180 Luxury Suites has just three indulgent suites, perfect for romantic or wellness-focused escapes. The Amani Spa is a highlight, with custom health and beauty treatments intended to restore and rejuvenate using organic products. A luxurious choice on Alonnisos.

FOR Families or Groups

  • Skopelos Village Hotel overlooks the harbour, just a short distance from the heart of Skopelos Village. Its 48 white-and-blue rooms and apartments feel fresh and nautical, with space for families and striking sea views. The kids' playground will be a hit with the little ones, whilst older kids will love the pool and water sports. Also famed as the spot where the cast of Mamma Mia! stayed during filming!
  • Mystery Skiáthos, just outside the bustle of Skiathos Town, is a charming all-suite property with modern interiors. Expect a friendly team, flexible options for families - some suites sleep up to 6 guests - and a relaxed feel. Guests share access to a pool, and the best suites have private hot tubs.
  • Ikion Eco Hotel has 13 bright, contemporary rooms, each with a balcony overlooking the mountains or the ocean on Alonnisos. A reasonably priced choice with good breakfasts, easy access to restaurants and to multiple beaches, it's a great family hotel.

FOR CONTEMPORARY COOL

  • Ammos Hotel Skyros is a whitewashed contemporary spot within walking distance of Magazia Beach on Skyros. Kick back in immaculate white-on-white guest rooms, gather at the walled pool's shady cabanas, to savour fantastic Greek fare in the restaurant. A family-run hotel for cool couples, families or groups of friends.
  • Nefeli Hotel, on the edge of Skyros Town, is a sleek, modern option for couples or families. The poolside restaurant has a great buzz, and there are bars, eateries and historic sites aplenty just nearby.
  • Bourtzi Boutique Hotel, set in the heart of Skiáthos Town, has 38 simple, contemporary guest rooms, each with a private balcony. Soak up the sunshine by the pool, or gather at the bar after days at the beach or exploring the town's historic streets on foot.

FOR SEASIDE LUXURY

  • Adrina Resort promises five-star contemporary style on Skopelos' western coast. The 38 rooms and villas are modern and minimalist, with big cosy beds, private terraces and panoramic ocean views. Pick this place for the deluxe spa, enormous garden and atmospheric beach restaurant. A fantastic resort with all the associated facilities.
  • Aegean Suites, nestled in amongst olive groves and a lush garden with sea views on Skiáthos, promises five-star indulgence. Beautiful guest rooms are cool and soothing, with pastel shades and lots of light. Treat yourself to a suite with private hot tub, and feast on sensational fare. Popular with honeymooners, this is reputedly one of the best hotels on the Med.
  • Elivi Skiáthos is an expansive seaside resort, with elegant contemporary rooms, suites and villas clad in muted tones. Modern artwork, multipel swimming pools and two excellent restaurants complete the picture. Set on a pine-fringed headland, this is a very special luxury escape on Skiáthos.

For Great Value

  • Hotel Yalis is a great spot for families or groups on Alonnisos, with comfortable rooms and suites featurign dark wood, tiled floors and lovely views. There's an attractive swimming pool and bar, and the beach is a short walk away. A wonderful, affordable choice.
  • Mandraki Village Hotel is a pretty, laid-back spot in Skiáthos with classic, airy rooms featuring floral prints and views of lush grounds. Some suites have additional space for families, who will also love the swimming pool and grassy gardens. The gourmet restaurant is a particular stand-out. A very reasonably priced holiday base for guests of all ages.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY VILLA

  • If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

  • Fly to Skiáthos Airport, generally with a change at Athens International Airport if you're coming from outside of Greece. Hop aboard one of the regular ferries to the other islands from there; they run particularly frequently during the summer months. Skyros also has its own small airport.
  • There's lots to see if you're happy to explore the Sporades Islands independently! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
  • Expect hot summers, with temperatures averaging at around 26°C between June and August, which is also peak season. For fewer crowds and cooler weather travel in April, May or late September, when you'll also find great hotel deals across the islands.

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Best Hotels in Sporades

  • Hotel Yalis Alonnisos 20 rooms from $77

    Great walks  -  Alonnissos has a wonderful coastline that is really well suited to coastal walks.
    Fishing  -  Take a fishing trip out into the Aegean for a day.
    Local markets  -  Browse the local market of Botsis.
    Swimming Pool  -  Outdoor salt water pool
    Air conditioningRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenViewsParking

    Overlooking the Aegean Sea, Hotel Yalis is a charming holiday destination. Offering simple, comfortable self-contained suites and apartments, it's well suited for families or small groups. Just a stone's throw from a great beach, this hotel's views will always have you coming back for more. See More

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  • Mandraki Village Hotel Skiáthos 40 rooms from $83

    Beach Life  -  Situated within walking distance of half a dozen beaches.
    Diving  -  Explore under the sea during a scuba diving lesson.
    Swimming Pool  -  Outdoor pool
    Secluded setting  -  For escaping.
    Air conditioningRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenDisabled accessParkingNo pets

    A boutique property nestled amidst a lush garden and just a few minutes walk from a number of beaches. Spacious rooms are light and airy with soft hues, patterned fabrics and crisp white linen. The upstairs gourmet restaurant pulls a crowd on its own. A tranquil base while you explore the island See More

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  • Armonia Rooms Alonnisos from $78

    Writing a novel  -  Steeped in myth, history and gorgeous landscape: boat trips to uninhabited island of Homer's cyclops'
    Back to Nature  -  A refuge for rare seabirds and dolphins, surrounded by olive groves and rugged mountains
    Local exploring  -  Local fishing villages like Patitiri, medieval castles and Homeric islands
    Total relaxation  -  Mini pools, hydromassage baths and crystal clear waters
    Air conditioningSwimming PoolGardenViews

    Light and tranquil private rooms with breathtaking views of the island and the sea, beautifully furnished with nuanced minimalist design. Communal pool while some rooms have private mini-pools. A place to lose yourself. See More

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  • Ikion Eco Hotel Patitiri, Alonnisos 13 rooms from $82

    Beach Life  -  With 13 beaches nearby, and some of the clearest seawater in the world, Alonissos is the perfect beach destination.
    Families  -  A warm and welcoming well priced hotel, with family suites only 150 yards from Roussoum Gialos beach.
    Diving  -  Alonisssos is home to the largest natural marine park in the Mediterranean, and the ideal place for diving.
    Sights nearby  -  You can explore the deserted islands off the coast, or the picturesque towns within Alonissos itself.
    Air conditioningGardenViewsParkingNo pets

    The Ikion's contemporary decor and bright rooms provide the ideal place from which to explore Alonissos. All rooms feature a balcony with sea or mountain views plus the hotel is 150m from the nearest beach. Breakfast is served in the garden and restaurants and shops are within a short walk. See More

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  • Ammos Hotel Skyros Skyros 21 rooms from $102

    Beach Life  -  Just steps from the beach and with many other coastline haunts nearby
    Sights nearby  -  Visit the Archaeological Site of Palamari and the Venetian Castle in Skyros Town which overlooks the Aegean
    Great walks  -  Take long hikes through the island's beautiful landscapes
    Swimming Pool  -  Outdoor swimming pool
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenPet friendlyViewsParking

    A tranquil seaside hotel in a picturesque whitewashed hamlet. The walled pool surrounded by cabanas is the hub; delicious, quirky Greek food is served here and on the pretty restaurant terrace, while immaculate white guestrooms are stylishly minimal and fresh. Ideal for a sun-soaked seaside retreat! See More

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  • Nefeli Hotel Skyros 32 rooms from $119

    Restaurant  -  Many of the dishes are created from ingredients grown on the property's own farm
    Sights nearby  -  Explore the beautiful, quaint streets of the hilltop town of Skyros.
    Swimming Pool  -  Sea water outdoor pool and children's pool
    Local markets  -  Explore the local market of Skyros.
    Air conditioningRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenPet friendlyParking

    A hotel with a chic, modern aesthetic that is slightly at odds with its sleepy, historic surroundings in Skyros. With sleek, comfortable rooms and a delightful poolside restaurant, it's the perfect place to unwind on a trip to the island of Skyros. A great place to stay for a romantic break. See More

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  • Mystery Skiathos Skiathos, Skiáthos 10 rooms from $131

    Families  -  The Grand Villa & Deluxe Suite are ideal for families (or groups); they can comfortably accommodate up to 6 people.
    Local exploring  -  This is a great base for not only enjoying Skiathos's beaches, but also exploring the island as a whole
    Restaurant  -  Mystery Pool restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner and serves lovely Mediterranean cuisine and Greek Classics
    Sights nearby  -  There are more than 50 churches and monasteries to explore on the island plus the Bourtzi Fortress in Skiathos Town
    Air conditioningRestaurantSwimming PoolViewsParkingNo pets

    A chic family friendly hotel just outside the bustle of Skiathos Town. Smart accommodations are spacious and well appointed with luxury touches as standard, and all come with private balcony and a view, some with private outdoor hot tub. Pool side bar and restaurant. A quiet haven and great value. See More

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  • Infinity 180 Luxury Suites Milia, Alonnisos 3 rooms from $133

    Hideaway  -  With just three suites, a secluded location and great facilities onsite, book this hotel for an unplugged hideaway holiday
    Romantic Break  -  Set against the beautiful backdrop of a pine forest and the sea, book this hotel for your next romantic getaway
    Beach Life  -  Set on the coast on the picturesque island of Alonnisos, book this hotel for a peaceful beach break
    Sights nearby  -  Discover the narrow streets and stone-built houses of the old town of Alonissos and visit monuments like the medieval castle
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenViewsParkingNo pets
    Recommended by  -  I Escape

    This hotel is nestled among pine trees on the coast of the Greek island of Alonissos. The stylish and discreet suites, named after native trees, bring the natural landscape inside with an earthy palette and sit-out terraces with sea views. Check into the outdoor safari spa for total relaxation. See More

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  • Skopelos Village Hotel Skopelos 48 rooms from $165

    Weddings  -  Enjoy a beautiful reception by the sea and let the hotel's experienced team cater for the rest of your needs-a splendid choice
    Total relaxation  -  Forget about your worries- spend your days on the beach, followed by a massage and a sunset meal for two
    Sights nearby  -  The beautiful hilltop Venetian castle is a must see as well as the remains of the Roman baths in Loutraki
    Great walks  -  Wander along the beaches of Skopelos to fully appreciate your tranquil surroundings
    Air conditioningTennisRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenPet friendlyViewsParking

    Skopelos Village Hotel enjoys a waterfront location just a short distance from the centre of town. Unfussy chic apartment style accommodation, offering wonderful views. Relax with a drink while the kids enjoy the playground! A friendly and charming stay. See More

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  • Adrina Resort Skopelos 38 rooms from $167

    Romantic Break  -  The beautiful seaside setting and pampering luxury suites make it the perfect intimate getaway for two.
    Great walks  -  Wake up early and head off along the beautiful walking routes that litter the surrounding coastline.
    Sights nearby  -  Nine miles from both Skiathos Castle and Papadiamantis' House.
    Romantic  -  Good for couples.
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenDisabled accessViewsParkingNo pets
    Recommended by  -  Great Small Hotels

    A stunning five-star resort that makes the most of it's sublime seaside location. Singularly focused on providing luxury and relaxation, the hotel offers plush rooms, an atmospheric beachfront restaurant, a deluxe spa and 17,000 metres squared of garden. A coastal wonder. See More

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  • Bourtzi Boutique Hotel Skiathos, Skiáthos 38 rooms from $177

    Sights nearby  -  Located in the heart of Skiathos town close to the harbour
    Swimming Pool  -  Indoor/outdoor
    Sailing  -  Can be booked nearby.
    Lively  -  Hip and happening.
    Air conditioningSwimming PoolViews

    A simply decorated contemporary hotel in the town centre with easy access to the beach. Modern no frills rooms in white and pastel colours with private balconies. Pool and lively bar. A great base for a beach holiday. See More

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  • Elivi Skiathos Skiáthos 104 rooms from $199

    Total relaxation  -  With its top-notch spa facilities, choice of pools, and proximity to the beach this is a great choice for a relaxing break
    Romantic Break  -  The discrete private villas and suites are great for couples on a romantic hideaway
    Sights nearby  -  Visit the island's many pretty churches, the 14th century castle, the Bourtzi and the house of writer Alexandrus Papadiamantis
    Great walks  -  Lots of beautiful coastal walks that can be combined with snorkeling and diving
    Air conditioningTennisSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenDisabled accessViewsParkingNo pets
    Recommended by  -  I Escape

    A stylish resort on a pine headland with wrap-around views and stunning beaches on its doorstep. Choose between understated and elegant hotel rooms, suites or villas in muted fresh tones, with hip artworks and pools galore. Expect to be delighted by its two fabulous restaurants and indulgent spa! See More

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  • Aegean Suites Megali Ammos, Skiáthos from $432

    Private Hot Tub  -  Book a Charming suite or Heaven suite for your private outdoor hot tub
    Spa  -  You can use the spa facilities at the Skiathos Princess Hotel
    Restaurant  -  Gourmet fine dining and more relaxed poolside restaurant
    Swimming Pool  -  Outdoor pool with sea views
    SpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenViewsParking

    A 5-star hotel nestled among olive trees and gardens with sea views, just outside Skathos Town. Rooms are beautifully cool, all neutral hues with a smattering of subtle pastel shades. A light lunch can be had poolside and there's gourmet cuisine by night. Luxury beach chic moments from the action. See More

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