Discovering Skiathos: My Unforgettable Skiathos Adventure

After our overnight stay at the TRIBE Hotel, we walked to Manchester Airport, just five minutes away. After meeting the FAM group, we used EasyJet's self-bag drop service before browsing the duty-free shops and enjoying a pint at The Grain Loft.

Our EasyJet flight to Skiathos took 3.5 hours, offering great legroom, two meals, drinks, and duty-free shopping. The journey flew by quickly.

On arrival, we transferred to the Skiathos Palace Hotel in Koukounaries. My Standard Sea View Room had a spacious balcony, modern décor, and a well-equipped bathroom.

The afternoon was spent by the pool, enjoying the sun with a Mythos (€5 a pint). In the evening, the hotel manager hosted a poolside buffet dinner for us, featuring a wide variety of choices. After a few drinks, we called it a night, ready for the days ahead.

Today began with a peaceful morning tea on my balcony before heading down to a poolside buffet breakfast. At 10 am, our rep, Georgina, met us at the reception, and we set off to visit several hotels across the island.

We began with the impressive Elivi Skiathos, a 5-star hillside resort featuring luxury rooms, private pools, and access to four nearby beaches. Next was Villa Michalis in Troulos, a 2-star EasyJet Holidays exclusive offering self-catered studios close to the beach. Nearby, we toured the Almira Hotel, a friendly 3-star with a pool, buffet dining, and Mediterranean charm.

Our next stop was Elizabeth Studios in Agia Paraskevi, situated in tranquil grounds with newly renovated apartments, making it an excellent base for couples or families. Afterwards, we visited the stunning Kassandra Bay & Suites, with private beaches, adult-only areas, and panoramic sea views, where we enjoyed a delicious Greek lunch overlooking the water.

In the evening, we explored Skiathos Town, visiting the Alkyon Hotel right on the seafront, before dining at Carnayo Restaurant. We ended the night sampling the Town's lively nightlife before heading back to the Skiathos Palace for some well-earned rest.

After breakfast by the pool at the Skiathos Palace, we took some final photos before checking out. Our first stops were the Skiathos Avaton Hotel and Thalassa Skiathos, both stylish properties in Megali Ammos with a chic, modern feel and relaxing poolside Bali beds - perfect for clients wanting to be near Skiathos Town but away from the bustle.

From there, we headed to the Port for our ferry to Skópelos. The one-hour crossing cost €29 and included snacks and drinks on board, although it was a little breezy up top. Upon arrival, our group was split between two hotels: the newly opened Minno Boutique Hotel & Spa and Skópelos Village, where I was allocated a spacious suite that cast members of Mamma Mia had once used. The pool and grounds were easy to navigate, perfect for some downtime.

That evening, we visited the Minno Boutique Hotel for an inspection and light lunch. The property felt brand new, boasting a sleek infinity pool, modern décor, and room categories that ranged from Deluxe to Superior, all of which featured private pools. Afterwards, some of us explored Skópelos Town, enjoying the lively harbour front bars before returning to our hotels for a well-earned rest.

After checking out of Skópelos Village, our group enjoyed a full tour of the hotel before being picked up for a day exploring the island. Highlights included visits to local beaches and a fun Mamma Mia!–themed road trip, stopping at the famous chapel from the film. Climbing the many steps in the heat was a challenge, but the views were breathtaking, and we even signed the guest book inside.

Later, we returned to the Port for our ferry back to Skiathos, where we checked into the elegant Skiathos Princess Hotel. The rooms were beautiful, and that evening we were treated to an à la carte meal at the hotel's Ammos Beach Restaurant & Bar. My choice, a perfectly cooked medium-rare beef fillet, was a real highlight. Guests can stay on a Bed & Breakfast or Half Board basis, with à la carte dining available at a supplement - highly recommended!

We rounded off the night exploring Skiathos Town's vibrant nightlife, including the famous "stair bars," each offering something different from live DJs to acoustic music. After a few drinks, we returned to the hotel, ready for our final full day on the island.

Our final full day in Skiathos was spent on a surprise boat trip around the island, stopping at hidden beaches. Drinks were included, and my highlight was Lalaria Beach, famous for its white pebbles, rock arch, and crystal-clear waters - a must-see for any visitor.

We then visited Old Town Kastro, once the island's capital. While some relaxed on the beach, I hiked up to the ancient ruins for breathtaking views of the sea. Afterwards, we stopped at Kati Yorgis on the mainland for a delicious Greek lunch, where I tried Moussaka for the first time – and loved it.

Back in Skiathos, we had time for a swim at a small beach before returning to the Port. I stayed in Town to browse souvenir shops and enjoy a drink before heading back to the Skiathos Princess Hotel.

That evening, we celebrated with an "Orange Night" in honour of EasyJet. After dinner at the hotel's restaurant, we visited a local taverna and ended the night in Skiathos Town with drinks and laughter – the perfect finale to an incredible trip.

Our final morning in Skiathos began with breakfast at the hotel's poolside buffet restaurant, where we reflected on the trip and took a few last photos by the beach.

Soon after, our transfer took us to Skiathos Airport, where check-in and security were quick and efficient. After a brief browse through the duty-free shop, we boarded the shuttle bus to our aircraft for the flight back to Manchester.

Onboard, I enjoyed a chicken teriyaki with rice, and before long, we were landing back in the UK. With luggage collected, it was time to bid farewell to the group and begin the journey home.

WHO WOULD THIS TYPE OF TRIP BE SUITED TO?

Skiathos is suited for a range of clients, from romantic couples' breaks to family getaways and solo adventures. The diverse mix of offerings, from live bars and secluded beaches to outdoor activities, ensures clients can have a relaxing and exciting holiday.

I highly recommend the island to anyone, like myself, who hasn't visited Greece previously. Skiathos really keeps its traditional Greek vibe.

FAVOURITE HOTEL VISITED AND WHY?

This was a difficult decision to make, as every hotel we visited on the FAM trip was unique in its own special way.

However, for me, the Almira Hotel in Troulos had a different impact. The hotel was small, yet it had a community feel throughout. The pool area was spacious, and there were enough sunbeds available without needing to rush for them / unnecessarily reserve them.

The pool bar was bright, open, and featured a covered area for those who wanted to relax, avoid the sun, or grab a beer and read a book.

The hotel was within proximity to the beach and resort centre of Troulos.

FAVOURITE RESTAURANT VISITED?

During the trip, we primarily ate at the restaurants located in our hotel.

However, I would have revisited Carnayo Restaurant had we been given the opportunity. The general atmosphere of the restaurant was totally chilled, creating a lovely ambience for enjoying a nice meal and drinks with friends.

The location, being right on the harborside, meant that after the meal, you could easily reach other bars.

GENERAL COMMENTS AND TIPS:

Don't forget about the Greek Tax! This is paid locally, upon check-in at the hotel. The Tax varies and is based on factors such as star rating, location, and time of season.

Some areas still prefer cash payments! I recommend that clients take some cash with them in case a bar/restaurant does not accept card payments. Cash is king, and is also handy for tips!

AIRLINE COMMENTS:

EasyJet have a luggage allowance of 23kg.

Small cabin bag dimensions > 45 × 36 × 20cm.

EasyJet is a cashless airline, and passengers must pay for onboard purchases by card.

BEST EXPERIENCE FROM THE TRIP?

The best experience of the FAM Trip was discovering a new destination, particularly Greece. It was always a destination that I used to dismiss, as it never really interested me.

However, this FAM trip has really opened my eyes to visit new Greek islands/destinations in the future!

I am already planning my next trip, returning to Skiathos with my nana, hopefully very soon!

The best experience I had on this FAM trip was the boat trip. This really opened my eyes to the true beauty of Skiathos, its beaches and coastline!