We're all heading for...Skopelos
Picturesque Skopelos provides the perfect holiday location

Although the Greek Islands have long been a popular destination for British holidaymakers, the tiny island of Skopelos has, until now, been a closely guarded secret. But that’s all about to change with the release of new movie Mamma Mia! The musical rom-com, starring Meryl Streep, Pierce Brosnan and Colin Firth, was filmed on Skopelos, as well as neighbouring island Skiathos. And with its idyllic beaches, lush green landscape and dramatic, cliff-top views, it’s easy to see why it was chosen as the setting for the hottest film of the summer.

Or, if you are so inclined, the unofficial nudist beach, Velanio, is around the bay!

One of the loveliest spots is the white-sand beach at Limnonari. A 20-minute drive from Skopelos Town, it is hidden down a slip road and set in a well-sheltered cove. Even in peak season, it is still a relatively quiet spot so you can guarantee plenty of space to spread out on the sand and enjoy a dip in the calm waters of the Aegean Sea.

And if you fancy treading in the footsteps of the Mamma Mia! cast, head for Kastani, where many of the beach scenes for the film were shot.

Sightseeing
If you tire of beach life, a drive around the island offers some spectacular sights. Check out the ancient hillside monastery Evangelistria, which can be seen from Skopelos Town’s harbour. Step back in time for the day with a trip to Glossa. The village’s steep, cobbled streets and whitewashed houses with their blue shutters make it picturesque – so take your camera. A little further out of Glossa is Ag. Ioannis sto Kastri,  a monastery that sits atop a rock out to sea and was the setting for the wedding in Mamma Mia!. Of course, no trip to the Mediterranean would be complete without a trip out to sea. Organised boat trips include an all-day excursion, which stops off at a couple of far-flung beaches as well as the sacred island of Kyra Panagia. You might even spot dolphins!

Eating and Drinking
... In Skopelos Town, there are dozens of tavernas lining the harbour... For a romantic dinner, head to one of the many backstreet restaurants, which provide a friendly, cosy atmosphere.
 
Where to stay
There are plenty of lovely hotels on the island. Dionyssos Hotel sits on a hill overlooking Skopelos Bay and has a lovely large swimming pool and cool, clean rooms. There is also a taverna offering good local dishes. One thing’s for sure: you won’t want to come home!

STAR Magazine, Tuesday, 22 July, 2008