The approach to Runway 02 at Skiathos is so dramatic that some have dubbed the airport ‘Europe’s Saint Maarten’. Few will travel to the island just to watch aeroplanes take off and land but spending an hour observing the activity on the airfield will certainly add flavour to the sun, sea and sand that draws most visitors. Sebastian Schmitz reports from middle of the Aegean.
SUNSHINE ISLANDS
The eastern Mediterranean is among Europe’s perennial holiday hotspots, and Greece one of the most popular countries in the region for tourism. Many of its islands scattered across the Aegean Sea have an easy-going way of life, which appeals to travellers seeking a relaxing break away from the hubbub of modern living.
Skiathos is part of the Sporades, an archipelago in the northwest Aegean, which has only three other inhabited islands – Alonnisos, Skopelos and Skyros. Arguably one of the most beautiful islands, it will be familiar to anyone who has watched the 2008 blockbuster Mamma Mia [Ugh – Ed], much of which was filmed on Skiathos and on neighbouring Skopelos: and for those so inclined, boat tours visiting locations on both run throughout the summer season.
The movie may well have encouraged more travellers to v…
