The Sporades group of islands is still referred to by some as the Balkans a name used over the centuries.

Strictly speaking, Evia the very large island that hugs the mainland, isn't one of the Sporades group but its geographic closeness to the islands of Alonissos, Skiathos, Skopelos and Skyros, make it a logical place to feature it.

Considering their close proximity to mainland Greece, the Sporades islands haven't embraced tourism to the same degree as other islands in Greece.

Skiathos has the advantage of an airport which makes it more easily accessible.

Most of the beaches are pebbly but numerous and attractive.

Skopelos is the administrative island for the group.

Skyros is the furthest away from the mainland and it's greatest appeal is that it has retained much of the old world charm of yester-year.