It has often been said that Greece is a land of mountains and sea. It's many islands make up nearly a quarter of the total land area, and combined with the mainland, gives it the largest coastline in Europe.

Although the islands are grouped together geographically, each and every one has a special identity and charm of its own. The people are fiercely independent and proud of their country and do not compromise their way of life.

Away from the more sophisticated towns and villages, life tends to be simple and unpretentious, but it is never dull! Greeks snare a fine facility for enjoying themselves - "Life is too short to worry, enjoy today as tomorrow is but another day".

The combination of excellent beaches, sandy or pebble, picturesque villages and inexpensive traditional food and drink are reason enough to visit the other villages, but also Greece is steeped in history, offering you a chance to visit and explore the many interesting and fascinating ruins.

Greece is not just a country, it is an experience, and if you can discover for yourself the spirit of the Greeks, rooted in their tremendous sense of hospitality, you will certainly have a holiday that you will remember for a long time to come.

Skiathos
Skiathos is set in the beautiful group of islands called the Northern Sporades. The word "Sporades" means scattered and the other members of this group are Skopelos, Alonissos and Skyros. The Islands are set in the beautiful blue Aegean Sea. Skiathos administratively belongs to the mainland province of Magnesia, which includes the harbour town of Volos.

The nearest neighbouring island to Skiathos is Skopelos, and the next is Alonissos. Skiathos still maintains its ancient name, and popular belief has it, that the name "Skiathos" is due to Mount Athos casting it's long shadow (Skia) over the Island at sunset. However, it seems the same word (Skia), refers to the shade of the thick woods which has always covered the Island. Skiathos therefore means "Shady Island".

Skiathos covers an area of 61 square kilometers, and the indented coastline extends to 44 kilometers, with approximate population of 5000 people.

The Island is largely mountainous and consists of limestone and crystallite layers. The highest point is Karafiltzanaka, which is approximately 433 meters and is quite rocky. Most of the mountains are covered with thick woods of wild pine trees, which in days gone by provided wood for shipbuilding. Along with the vast groves of olive trees in Skiathos, green covers approximately 70% of the island's surface.

The main source of income on the island today is related to tourism; however the other sources of wealth are still as they have always been. Firstly there is agriculture, primarily the production of olive oil and the farming of vegetables and dairy produce. Secondly fishing, and thirdly there is the Sreek merchant navy. Unfortunately this is not the same as it was, as all the young men seem to be turning to the more prosperous avenue of tourism.