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Sailing and hiking through the Sporades Islands is like gliding through a living myth. This archipelago in the northwestern Aegean Sea is Greece at its most untouched—lush pine forests cascading down to cobalt-blue coves, Byzantine monasteries perched on hilltops, and traditional villages where time slows to a gentle rhythm. Over eight days, you’ll traverse the islands not only by sailboat, anchoring in secret bays and lively harbors, but also on foot, walking centuries-old trails once used by shepherds, monks, and fishermen.
The Sporades hold layers of history and legend. Skiathos, the lively gateway, is famed for its sandy beaches and as the birthplace of author Alexandros Papadiamantis.
Skopelos, a green jewel, is graced with more than 360 chapels and the stone-cobbled footsteps of the film Mamma Mia!.
Alonissos, quieter and more spiritual, shelters Europe’s largest marine park and the rare Mediterranean monk seal. Beyond these, the remote isles of Kyra Panagia and Peristera beckon with wild terrain, ancient shipwrecks, and Byzantine solitude.
Each day offers a different rhythm: early morning sails gliding over calm Aegean waters, invigorating hikes along pine-fringed paths and rugged coastlines, afternoons swimming in turquoise bays, and nights under stars in fishing villages or peaceful anchorages. The experience is immersive—sun-drenched, salt-kissed, and soul-deep. It’s not just a journey through the Sporades, but into the very essence of Greek island life.
Moderate (Hiking)
We curated this experience for people who enjoy trekking. You should be in good physical condition. The walking trails are a mixture of dirt tracks and well-constructed stone mule paths. Hikes and treks includes occasional steep ascents. Along the coast, we walk on the sand for some stretches — a good walking pole may be useful. Relatively easy hikes, 3 to 4 hours per day. This a good start for a first trekking holiday.
*If you don’t want to hike, you can just hang out on the boat or enjoy the warm Aegean waters.
Sailing
No sailing experience necessary. Those who are already familiar boating are more than welcome to assist our certified skipper throughout the journey. This trip is also a great opportunity for people with no experience to learn the fundamental principles of the art of sailing. Participants must be able to swim to join this tour.
Your journey begins on the vibrant island of Skiathos, known for its golden beaches and lively old town. Upon arrival, you’ll be welcomed aboard your sailing yacht, your floating home for the week ahead. In the evening, you’ll stretch your legs with a short warm-up hike (approx. 4 km / 1.5 hours) to the old fortified village of Kastro, perched dramatically above the Aegean. Here, the ruined medieval walls echo tales of pirates and monks. Back in town, enjoy a welcome dinner with fresh seafood and a toast to the voyage ahead.
Overnight: Marina, Skiathos
Sailing: None
Hiking: 4 km, ~1.5 hours, moderate
We set sail for Skopelos, a 20-nautical-mile journey (approx. 3.5–4 hours), cruising past pine-streaked coastlines. Arriving in Skopelos Town, one of the prettiest harbors in the Aegean, we hike inland through fragrant forests to the Monastery of Evangelistria, a fortified 18th-century complex with sweeping sea views and a peaceful aura. The trail (approx. 7.5 km / 2.5 hours) follows mule paths once used by monks and villagers, weaving through olive groves and cypress trees.
Overnight: Docked in Skopelos Port
Sailing: 20 NM / 3.5–4 hrs
Hiking: 7.5 km, ~2.5 hours, moderate with some elevation
A short morning sail (about 1.5 hours / 10 NM) brings us to the western shores of Skopelos near Panormos Bay. From here, we lace up our boots for one of the trip’s most iconic hikes—a panoramic trail to the Church of Agios Ioannis, famously featured in Mamma Mia! Perched atop a sea-battered rock, this small chapel offers one of the best views in the Sporades. The hike (6.5 km / 2–2.5 hours) includes stone paths and forested stretches, rewarding us with cinematic vistas.
Overnight: Anchorage in Panormos or Agnontas Bay
Sailing: 10 NM / 1.5 hrs
Hiking: 6.5 km, ~2–2.5 hours, moderate with some steep stairs
We weigh anchor early for Alonissos, sailing northeast for about 18 NM (approx. 3 hours). We dock in Patitiri, the island’s main port, where the low-key charm contrasts sharply with Skiathos’ buzz. From the waterfront, we hike (8.5 km / 3 hours) along the old donkey trail to the hilltop Old Village of Alonissos, abandoned after a 1965 earthquake and now lovingly restored. The whitewashed houses, flower-draped balconies, and panoramic tavernas offer an irresistible blend of tranquility and authenticity.
Overnight: Patitiri or nearby bay
Sailing: 18 NM / 3 hrs
Hiking: 8.5 km, ~3 hours, moderate uphill
Sailing north along Alonissos’ coast (8 NM / 1.5 hours), we reach the fishing hamlet of Steni Vala, a gateway to the National Marine Park of Northern Sporades—the largest of its kind in Europe. This day features a leisurely coastal hike (6 km / 2 hours), where the scent of wild oregano, the calls of seabirds, and the lapping of waves guide us. There’s time for swimming, snorkeling, or even kayaking in this pristine, protected area.
Overnight: Mooring at Steni Vala
Sailing: 8 NM / 1.5 hrs
Hiking: 6 km, ~2 hours, easy to moderate
Today we sail to the uninhabited island of Kyra Panagia, part of the core Marine Park and sacred since Byzantine times. After a 12 NM (2–2.5 hour) crossing, we anchor in the sheltered bay of Planitis. Our hike (7 km / 2.5 hours) climbs up a rough trail to the 10th-century Monastery of the Nativity, still maintained by a single monk. The views across the Aegean are vast, the silence absolute. The evening is spent in solitude, under a dome of stars, dining aboard the boat.
Overnight: Anchorage in Planitis Bay
Sailing: 12 NM / 2–2.5 hrs
Hiking: 7 km, ~2.5 hours, moderate with rugged terrain
On our final day, we stop at nearby Peristera Island (6 NM / 1 hour), where a short walk (3 km / 1 hour) leads to an ancient shipwreck site—an open-air museum beneath the waves. After lunch and a swim, we sail back to Skiathos (approx. 20 NM / 3.5–4 hours), with the islands slipping behind us like pages in a well-loved story. The evening is free to explore the town’s lively waterfront before a final dinner celebrating an unforgettable week.
Overnight: Marina, Skiathos
Sailing: 26 NM / 4.5–5 hrs (total)
Hiking: 3 km, ~1 hour, easy
After breakfast on board, it’s time to bid farewell to the Sporades.
Transfers to the airport or ferries can be arranged. As the sails are folded and bags packed, one thing is certain—this journey will linger in your memory like the scent of pine and salt air. And while this chapter may be coming to a close, the adventure doesn’t have to end. For those inspired to explore further, the landscapes of Greece and the Aegean still hold countless paths to wander, from sun-drenched islands to mountain trails waiting just beyond the horizon.. (B)
Price is based on a minimum attendance of 4 people (for less or more participants, please to contact us. End of July-August prices may vary).
Greece enjoys a Mediterranean climate, with warm sunny days and occasional cool breezes, especially on the islands or at higher elevations. The best approach to packing is to use the layering system—this allows you to easily adjust to changing temperatures. If it gets hot, you can remove layers; if it turns windy or cooler, you can quickly layer up for comfort.
Travel light, travel smart. The less you carry, the easier your journey will be—especially when navigating ferry ports, cobblestone streets, or compact sailboats. Minimalist packing isn’t just convenient at the start; you’ll thank yourself at the end of the trip, too.
Here’s a list of recommended items to bring on your Sporades Sail & Hike Adventure:
*This packing list is meant to serve as a flexible guideline, not a strict checklist. Feel free to adapt it based on your personal preferences, travel style, and the specific activities you have planned. Add what you need, skip what you don’t—the goal is to pack smart and travel comfortably.