Skiathos

Skiathos is the most tourist-developed of the Northern Sporades, with a southern coastline of approximately 60 beaches, the most celebrated of which is Koukounaries — a 1.2-kilometre arc of fine sand backed by a protected lagoon and pine forest. The town of Skiathos, built on two low hills above the main harbour, was largely rebuilt after Second World War destruction and retains an active waterfront of ferries, yachts, and fishing boats. The medieval Kastro, a fortified settlement at the northern tip of the island, was the principal refuge of the population during the period of Ottoman and pirate threats.