;img.crop(width:650%2Cheight:460))
Sample the nightlife along the capital’s club street
Nightlife in Achladies Bay is low-key, all about unwinding over a meal then kicking back in a relaxed taverna. But if you want to up the tempo, you can hop in a taxi and be in the island’s capital, Skiathos Town, in 15 minutes. The cocktail bars are down at the harbour along with the cheery pubs putting on karaoke and quizzes. If clubbing takes your fancy, head to the 80s and chart pop discos along Polytechniou Street.The 18th-century Evangelistria Monastery is set in isolated woodland, about 10 minutes’ drive from Achladies Bay. It’s got a special place in Greek history since this is where the modern Greek flag was first lifted by nationalists in 1807. There’s a museum here that takes you through all the history, and a shop too where you can pick up the monks’ Alypiako red wine – the grapes come from their own vineyard.
Read MoreThis area’s renowned for its fantastic seafood – Achladies Bay has a clutch of restaurants near the waterfront, serving up freshly-netted fish from tuna to swordfish. You’ll also find traditional Greek dishes like moussaka on the menus here. Drinks wise, the homemade Retsina wine is the default option. While the eateries are generally very laid-back, there’s still the occasional plate-smashing session at the tavernas’ Greek nights.
Read MoreThe festival to celebrate the Assumption of the Virgin Mary is a big deal everywhere in Greece, and Skiathos Town puts on the island’s biggest party. First there’s a procession to the Evangelistrias monastery, about 3 miles away. Then the party comes back to Skiathos Town, where lots more people join in for souvlaki and ouzo along the harbourfront.
Read MoreIn Achladies Bay, shopping’s limited to mini-markets for stocking up on essentials, and a few souvenir shops selling leather goods and lace. But if you want more options, you can take the 5-minute bus to Skiathos Town centre, where designer shops rub shoulders with craft and gift shops – you’ll find a nice line in local pottery and embroidered linen. You’re never pushed for time – these places are open until 10 pm every day of the week.
Read MoreAchladies Bay boasts a watersports centre right on the beach. You can go waterskiing, wakeboarding and paragliding – or maybe just potter down the coast on a pedalo. The clear waters here make the diving centre very popular, too. Beginner sessions are available and once you’ve got the hang of it you can go looking for octopus and seahorses. More expert divers can also seek out the reefs and shipwrecks nearby.
Read More