5 Best Sights in Skyros, The Sporades

Close to the airport, this wonderful beach of white sand and pebbles is surrounded by lush greenery, with the little chapel of Agios Petrosa on a hill above as a serene backdrop. Don't be put off by the 4 km (2½ miles) of dirt road leading to the beach, it's definitely worth the effort. Amenities: parking (no fee). Best for: snorkeling; swimming; walking; windsurfing.

The road south from Atsitsa deteriorates into a rutted track, nerve-racking even for experienced motorbike riders. If you're feeling fit and the weather's good, however, consider the challenging 6-km (4-mile) trek around the headland to Agios Fokas. There are three lovely white-pebbled beaches and a small taverna. Amenities: food and drink; parking (no fee); toilets. Best for: snorkeling; solitude; sunset; swimming; walking.

The windy beach of Kalamitsa is 4 km (2½ miles) along the road south from Ahilli, and popular with windsurfers for obvious reasons. Nevertheless, this also means that the sands can be whipped up into a skin-cleansing frenzy on certain days, so whether you're a surfer or bather, check the winds first. There are three decent tavernas at this old harbor. Amenities: food and drink; parking (no fee); showers; toilets; water sports. Best for: snorkeling; sunset; surfing; swimming; windsurfing.

North of Molos, past low hills, fertile fields, and the odd farmhouse, a dirt road leads to this historical beach where ruins from a Neolithic fortress and settlement have been discovered. The beach has cool, crystal waters and sandy shores that offer a sense of privacy. Amenities: parking (no fee). Best for: nudists; solitude; sunrise; swimming; walking.

A short walk south of Magazia, Pouria offers good snorkeling, and nearby on the cape is a small treasure: a sea cave that has been transformed into a chapel. There's a little hotel nearby where one can get refreshments. Amenities: parking (no fee). Best for: snorkeling; solitude; swimming; walking.