The Chapel of St. John, also known as Agios Ioannis, is undoubtedly the most recognizable place on Skopelos, having gained worldwide fame as the location of the fictional wedding in the 2008 film Mamma Mia. This small, white chapel stands atop a steep rock, accessed by 199 stone steps carved directly into the cliff. Each step up is not only a physical challenge but also a spiritual journey – the views from this spot are breathtaking. From a height of over 100 meters above sea level, there is a panoramic view of the blue Aegean Sea, the neighboring islands, and the green slopes of Skopelos covered with pine trees. The chapel, although small, exudes tranquility and authenticity, and its interior has retained its traditional Byzantine character with icons and simple decor. It is worth visiting this place early in the morning or late in the afternoon, when there are few tourists and the sunlight paints the rocks in shades of gold and pink.

Mamma Mia Cliff is a broader term for the entire area around the chapel of Agios Ioannis, which has become an icon of the island. The dramatic cliffs of the northwestern part of Skopelos form spectacular rock formations that filmmakers have used to create unforgettable scenes. This place offers not only the views familiar from the screen, but also numerous hiking trails leading through olive groves and pine forests. Local legend has it that in ancient times, these cliffs served as a lookout point for guards watching for pirate ships. Today, it is a paradise for photographers and nature lovers who can spend hours exploring hidden paths and discovering new viewpoints. Unlike many other film locations, Mamma Mia Cliff has retained its natural, unspoiled character—there are no commercial stands or artificial attractions here, just authentic Greek nature in its purest form.

Monastery St. Riginou, located in the hills above the main town, represents the island's spiritual tradition dating back centuries. Surrounded by dense pine forests, this Byzantine monastery offers a completely different perspective on monastic life in Greece. Although smaller and less famous than the famous Meteora, the monastery of St. Riginou has retained the authentic character of a functioning place of worship. Inside, you can admire 18th-century frescoes that have survived the centuries thanks to the island's dry climate. The monks who live here lead a simple, contemplative lifestyle, growing olives and producing local honey. For families seeking peace and reflection, a visit to this monastery is an opportunity to understand the deep spirituality that has shaped Greek culture for millennia. The path leading to the monastery winds through aromatic thickets of thyme and rosemary, and the silence is broken only by birdsong and the rustling of the wind in the treetops.

Carved Graves Sedoukia is one of the most intriguing and least known archaeological sites on Skopelos, transporting visitors back to pre-Christian times. These rock-cut tombs date back to the Hellenistic and Roman periods, when the island was called Peparethos and was an important center of wine production. Sedoukia, located in the northeastern part of the island, consists of a dozen or so tombs carved directly into natural rock formations. Each tomb has a distinctive shape resembling a human silhouette, suggesting that these were burial sites for important members of the community. Local legend has it that on a full moon, the spirits of the island's ancient inhabitants dance around these tombs, although a more rational explanation is the play of light and shadow on the rock surfaces. Surrounded by wild vegetation and aromatic herbs, this place offers not only historical value but also an extraordinary sense of peace and mystery. For families with children interested in history, Sedoukia is an excellent opportunity to learn about ancient burial practices in an accessible and visually fascinating way.

The Asclepieion of Ancient Peparethos is the remains of an ancient sanctuary dedicated to Asclepius, the Greek god of medicine and healing. Discovered by archaeologists in the 1980s, this site proves that Skopelos was an important medical center in ancient times. The sanctuary, located near the modern town of Skopelos, consisted of a complex of buildings where ancient medicine was practiced, combining scientific knowledge with religious rituals. Patients came here from all over the region, seeking healing for various ailments. Archaeologists have discovered fragments of inscriptions describing miraculous healings, surgical tools, and votive offerings in the form of miniature body parts made of terracotta. Today, you can see the foundations of the main temple, the remains of ritual baths, and fragments of columns. Information boards on site explain the significance of the various structures and medical practices used in ancient times. For modern visitors, especially those interested in the history of medicine, the Asclepieion offers a fascinating insight into how the ancient Greeks combined science, religion, and the art of healing.

Drakontoschisma, which literally means 'dragon's crevice', is a geological rock formation shrouded in legends and myths. According to local legend, the fissure was created when Saint Riginos, the patron saint of the island, fought a dragon that was terrorizing the inhabitants of Skopelos. In reality, it is a natural formation created by tectonic processes, but its dramatic appearance—a deep, narrow fissure cutting through massive rock—truly captures the imagination. The site is located in a wooded part of the island, surrounded by old pine trees and wild herbs. Drakontoschisma also has botanical significance – the humid microclimate of the crevice is home to rare species of ferns and mosses that are found nowhere else on the island. For families with children, it is a great place to tell stories about dragons and saints, while teaching about geology and the processes that shape the landscape. The path leading to Drakontoschisma is moderately challenging but suitable for children over six years old, and the reward of the extraordinary view and cool air in the crevice is well worth the effort.

Panormos Beach is one of the most beautiful and family-friendly beaches on Skopelos, located on the north coast of the island in a picturesque, sheltered bay. This sandy-pebble beach stretches for about 300 meters and is surrounded by dense pine forests that provide natural shade on hot summer days. The waters at Panormos are exceptionally calm and shallow near the shore, making it ideal for families with small children. The clarity of the water is remarkable—you can see small fish swimming around your feet even at a depth of several meters. The beach is equipped with basic amenities, including mid-range sun loungers and umbrellas, as well as a small tavern serving fresh seafood and traditional Greek dishes. Unlike the more crowded beaches in other parts of Greece, Panormos retains a calm, relaxing atmosphere even in the high season. In the early morning or late afternoon, you can often see local fishermen checking their nets, which adds to the authenticity of the place.

Paralia Kastani gained international recognition as one of the main filming locations in Mamma Mia, where the beach and dance scenes were shot. This spectacular beach on the southwest coast of the island offers a combination of golden sand and fine gravel, surrounded by high cliffs covered with pine trees. Kastani is slightly more exposed to the wind than Panormos, making it popular with water sports enthusiasts, although it remains suitable for families. The water here is an intense turquoise color, and the bottom slopes gradually, allowing for safe swimming. The beach has organized infrastructure with sun loungers, umbrellas, and a beach bar offering snacks and drinks at mid-range prices. An interesting aspect of Kastani is that despite its cinematic fame, the beach has not been overly commercialized—you won't find Mamma Mia souvenirs or themed attractions here, just an authentic Greek beach experience. Watching the sunset from Kastani, as the last rays paint the cliffs in shades of orange and pink, is an unforgettable experience.

Kayaking Skopelos, based in the village of Elios (Neo Klima), offers a unique way to explore the island's coastline from the sea. This professional agency organizes kayaking trips tailored to different skill levels, from leisurely family outings along the coast to more challenging expeditions to remote coves and sea caves. The guides, often locals who know every corner of the island, share their knowledge of the history, geology, and marine ecosystems of Skopelos. During a typical trip, you can reach places inaccessible by land, such as Amarandos Cove, a hidden cove with crystal clear water ideal for snorkeling. Tour prices are mid-range, and the equipment is modern and well-maintained. For families with children over the age of eight, kayaking is an excellent activity that combines sport, adventure, and environmental education. The agency places great emphasis on the principles of slow travel and environmental protection, teaching participants to respect the marine ecosystem.

Skopelos free walking tours, starting at the port of the main town, are a great way to learn about the history, architecture, and daily life of the island. These free walking tours, led by enthusiasts of local culture, last about two hours and take you through the maze of narrow streets of Hora, the island's main town. Participants learn about the history of Skopelos from the ancient times of Peparethos, through the Byzantine and Venetian periods, to the present day. The guides tell fascinating stories about the pirates who plagued the island in the Middle Ages, the local traditions of plum and almond production, and how the movie Mamma Mia changed the lives of the islanders. The tour includes visits to characteristic white houses with blue shutters, traditional bakeries where you can taste local sweets, and viewpoints offering panoramic views of the sea and neighboring islands. Although the tours are free, participants usually leave a tip for the guide at their discretion. It is an ideal activity for the first day of your stay, allowing you to get a feel for the topography of the city and discover places worth returning to later on your own.