Just around an hours sail from Skiathos lies Skopelos. According to the legend Skopelos was founded by Staphylos (Greek for grape), one of the sons of the god Dionysos and the princess Ariadne of Crete. As I say, as legends go ….

Skopelos is approximately 38 square miles and fully depends on tourism for their economy (so come over and support)! But its also a year round retirement destination for northern europeans.

I found Skopelos reasonably quiet during the day time which I guess this time of the year isn’t normally the case although the island is a lot quieter that Skiathos. But in the evening the locals come out with their families for food which have the town a very traditional feel.

Unfortunately, Skopelos cannot support its population with locally produced food and goods. Most of what is used and consumed must be imported by ship from the mainland. Another reason for coming here!!

Here’s a little fact ….

Skopelos is a matrilineal society. Wealth is passed on via the female line. By custom, the parents of each Skopelitan bride provide the new couple with at least a house and some property. The house and property remain in the bride’s name. This custom is particularly insular as in most other parts of Greece, especially on the mainland and Crete, wealth is patrilineal.

On that note I will pack my things and get ready to jump over to my next island… Alonnisos.