MY DREAM WEDDING ON THE GREEK ISLAND SKOPELOS
The journey to this beautiful island begins with a flight to Skiathos. We flew locally from Bristol , and from there, it’s a 1.5-hour ferry ride across the Aegean Sea, which sets the tone for the relaxed, tranquil experience that awaits you. When you arrive in Skopelos, you’ll immediately be charmed by the island’s beauty: Skopelos Town’s narrow, cobbled streets lined with traditional whitewashed houses, vibrant bougainvillea, and cosy tavernas. It feels like you’ve stepped back in time—away from the stress of modern life.
We were lucky to have 17 of our closest family and friends with us to celebrate our wedding. The ceremony took place at the Church of Agios Iohannis Kastri, one of the island’s most famous landmarks. This iconic chapel, perched high on a rock with 200 steps leading up to it, provided the most breath-taking backdrop for our vows. The view of the Aegean was absolutely stunning, and despite the climb, it felt like a magical, intimate setting for our special day. It was truly an unforgettable moment.
Following the ceremony, we celebrated at #AgnantiRestaurant in the picturesque village of Glossa. The restaurant is perched on a hill with sweeping views over the sea, and the owner, Nikos, gave us the top open-air terraces to enjoy the occasion. It felt like we were dining on top of the world. As the sun began to set, swifts danced above us, their graceful flight adding to the beauty of the moment. We indulged in delicious traditional Greek dishes, made with fresh, local ingredients—perfect for the kind of relaxed, yet elegant celebration we had hoped for.
Beyond the wedding itself, Skopelos offers so much more to explore. Glossa, where we held our reception, is a quaint village known for its incredible sea views and traditional Greek charm. Glossa is one of the oldest villages on Skopelos, offering a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the town. Its narrow, winding streets are lined with traditional stone houses, and the views from the village over the Aegean are simply breath-taking. It’s also home to the famous Fokianos Beach, a beautiful, quiet spot perfect for a relaxing day by the sea.
The village of Skopelos has been home to local families for generations, and many of the island’s artisans live and work in Skopelos Town, creating beautiful handwoven textiles, pottery, and other crafts.
One standout artist is #RiginaBountala, a talented Greek anthropologist whose family once built huge galleon ships. Today, she continues this legacy by producing stunning miniature versions of the ships. Rigina offers a free town walk where she explains the fascinating history of Skopelos, followed by a visit to her family workshop, where you can see these incredible models being crafted.
Also, don’t miss Peggy at #GinnakopoulosJewellery, whose family has been producing beautiful jewellery for generations. Each piece is a work of art, made with exceptional skill and passion, and Peggy’s shop is a wonderful place to find unique, handcrafted pieces that reflect the island’s heritage.
We stayed at the Skopelos Village Hotel, a charming and comfortable spot that perfectly blends the island’s traditional feel with modern amenities. The hotel is just a short walk from Skopelos Town, making it a great base for exploring the island. The views from the rooms are breath-taking, and the peaceful surroundings made it the perfect place to unwind after a busy day of sightseeing and celebrating.
A visit to Skopelos wouldn’t be complete without exploring the surrounding areas. If you're looking to visit more of the island’s beautiful beaches, there’s a local bus that runs from the town to some of the most stunning spots along the coast. The bus offers a great way to get around without the need for a car, and it’s ideal if you want to spend a relaxing day at the beach.
For a truly unforgettable experience, I recommend taking a boat trip to Alonissos, one of the nearby islands. The boat ride offers gorgeous views of the Aegean Sea, and Alonissos is home to unspoiled beaches and a laid-back atmosphere, perfect for a day of exploration.
There are also several monasteries you can visit during your time on Skopelos. The Monastery of Evangelistria is a peaceful spot, with panoramic views over the island and the sea. Another beautiful option is the Monastery of St. Riginos, tucked away in a quiet part of the island and surrounded by lush greenery.
Skopelos is truly the perfect destination for a romantic holiday, whether you’re planning a quiet getaway or a special celebration like a wedding. With its natural beauty, rich history, and warm hospitality, the island will provide you with memories that last a lifetime. As someone who got married here, I can tell you first hand how magical this place is, and I’d be more than happy to help you plan your own escape—whether it’s a wedding, anniversary trip, or just a well-deserved vacation.