Troulos holidays

There’s a great selection of tavernas here encouraging you to try the island’s many local recipes. Celebrated for its famous hospitality, eating out is all part of the culture here with a mix of traditional products and a friendly service promising an unforgettable dining experience. Whether you choose to try fish caught the same day, a meat-based dish like souvlaki or the vegetarian favourite dolmades, which is basically vine leaves stuffed with rice and herbs – you’re in taste bud heaven when you come to Greece. Jasteri Restaurant & Bar is a must-visit for authentic fare done properly. This family-run spot has plenty of options from stuffed squid served with lemon roasted potatoes to the beautifully cooked mixed grill. Alternatively, Salt and Pepper is a great choice for food and cocktails under the stars with its open-air tables.

The shoreline in Troulos will instantly demand your attention with its scenic backdrop and golden sand which gently slopes into its crystalline waters. It’s well organised with snack spots, sunloungers and lifeguard supervision, so much so, it has even received a Blue Flag award. When you’re not tucking into fish dishes at the seafood taverna, there’s a watersport centre providing the fun with inflatable sofas, banana boat rides and jet skis are among some of the floating highlights. Further up the coast, you’ll come to Koukounaries Beach, one of the island’s finest stretches. This unspoilt beauty is backed by sweet-smelling pines, while its soft white sand looks like it has been imported from the Caribbean.

Aside from its eye-catching Blue Flag shoreline, Troulos is a great spot for exploring Greece’s countryside. Nights are a low-key affair often centred around a meal and a few cocktails. However, with Skiathos Town just down the road livelier evenings are also on the cards. Looking for history? The former capital Kastro is worth a visit.

Step back in time with a trip to Kastro: As the former capital of the island up until the 1830s, this abandoned town is now a place of historical interest. There are a number of ruins here alongside still-standing structures including a church and mosque. When you walk around this rocky headland, it’s hard to believe that 500 homes used to sit here. Byzantine, Venetian and Turkish all ruled here at one point, which is evident through its remains. Wondering how to get here? You can either tackle the steep path, hop on a boat or drive – the choice is yours.

Trek its hikable terrain: Known for its hikable landscape, Skiathos has some fantastic walking trails begging you to explore the hotspot by foot. Fairly small in size, you can see a different side of the island in no time. Troulos is a great place to start your trekking adventures with plenty of pine forest covered paths leading to secluded coves. Plus, there’s no better way to see rural Greece with farmland and incredible views of the coast greeting you along the way. And don’t worry most walks aren’t challenging, so the family can join you if you wish.