Only a short flight from London, Skiathos is one Greece’s best kept secrets. A small island located in the northwest Aegean Sea brimming with beautiful beaches. Skiathos could easily be mistaken for one of its on trend bigger sisters that are popular with everyone from John Travolta to the Kardashians, but don’t be mistaken Skiathos isn’t a fad destination it’s quickly becoming a star in its own right.
The island of Skiathos renowned for its starring role in box office hit Mamma Mia, is even more impressive than its cameos on screen. With the sequel having been recently announced, now is the perfect time to explore what Skiathos has to offer. The island is the perfect mix, with enough to see and do or little as takes your fancy. This chilled out vibe is best reflected by a family run company who look after a portfolio of properties in the area known as The Santikos Collection. The collection consists of 4 properties, two of 2 of which are located in the heart of Skiathos. Let me introduce you to the Skiathos Princess, the larger of the two hotels on the island…
After a short 15 minute transfer from the airport I arrived at the Skiathos Princess Hotel which would be my main base through the trip. The palatial reception was not only beautiful in sight but smelt divine, the gleaming marble and complimentary soft furnishings welcomed you perfectly and set the tone for the rest of the resort. The reception also has a large separate lounge area where we were welcomed with an obligatory glass of prosecco.
Following a smooth check in and a wonderful welcome by the team we were escorted to our rooms. The reception opens out onto a perfectly manicured lawn with views down to the crystal clear Aegean on the horizon.
I had the pleasure of staying in two superb rooms during my stay. One of which being the very same room the Mamma Mia star and heartthrob Pierce Brosnan retired during the filming.
My first room was situated in the building closest to the beach, pool and restaurants. The light and airy room had plenty of space, and undisrupted views onto both the pool and sea. The room also had the luxury of a separate sunken lounge area, the perfect place for Pierce to unwind in.
The second room I was invited to stay in topped my first, if that was even possible. The two bedroom, two bathroom suite was more like a luxury apartment than a hotel suite. The suite even had its own private access from the pool and beach which led onto a private garden, complete with sofa’s, giant bean bags, a bar area and a pretty decent sized pool. This room could be the perfect choice for all your entertaining needs, or to escape and relax in complete privacy.
If I hadn’t already been spoiled in my room choices I was also lucky enough to enjoy lots of delicious traditional Greek food.. The PR Ammos restaurant set directly on the beachside did not disappoint, boasting uninterrupted views and a menu filled with an abundance of signature Greek dishes. The options were endless, from authentic tzatziki and pitta, to fresh octopus and locally caught fish and a personal favourite kleftiko. Even the fussiest of eaters couldn’t leave feeling hungry.
In addition to the fantastic food, the hotel offers an impressive collection of wines, specially sourced for all properties from Greek vineyards in the North. The Santikos collection wines, including a Red, White and Rose are stocked in all properties are well worth sampling. In particular try the light crisp rose that I probably enjoyed more of than I would care to admit.
There are plenty of things to do in the hotel, from unwinding in the spa, to a swift game of table tennis. I even attempted to paddle board across the crystal clear waters. This hotel is the perfect spot if you’re looking to relax or explore. With plenty of trips on offer there are plenty of undiscovered coves and inlets around this beautiful island, or even fancy exploring the charming neighbouring islands of Skopelos and Alonissos to name a few.
I will definitely be back soon!
With flights regularly from May to October, this traditional Greek town has lots to offer to even the most accomplished traveller. Find out more below…
Classic Collection Holidays (0800 047 1064; classic-collection.co.uk) offers 7 nights at Skiathos Princess Resort from £1384 per person. Price based on 2 adults sharing a club garden view room on a bed & breakfast basis, traveling in September and includes return flights from London Gatwick (other UK departure airports available) to Skiathos and private transfers.
* I stayed at Skiathos Princess Hotel as part of a press trip, however, as always opinions are my own!
