Kolios, Skiathos is one of those lovely little corners of the island that might not be shouting from the rooftops in the tourist brochures, but it’s got a proper charm all its own, especially if you’re after a more chilled-out Greek escape.
What will you find in Kolios?
Picture this: a gently curving bay, the kind that looks like it’s been scooped out of the coastline just perfectly. That’s Kolios in a nutshell. It’s a quieter spot nestled on the south coast of Skiathos, snuggled in amongst some of the more bustling resorts, offering a slice of tranquility and a more local feel.
The real heart of Kolios is its gorgeous sandy beach. Now, it’s not the sprawling miles of sand you might find elsewhere, but that’s part of its magic. It feels more intimate, more like a little secret. The water here is usually as calm as a millpond and crystal clear, making it just the ticket for a proper relaxing swim. You’ll often see families with little ones splashing about happily, and there are usually a few sunbeds and parasols dotted along the sand, just waiting for you to settle in with a good book.
Tucked around the curve of the bay and gently climbing the green hillside, you’ll find a lovely little collection of smaller hotels, apartments, and villas. These tend to be the family-run sort of places, offering a more personal touch than the big, flashy resorts. Loads of them boast cracking views out over the bay and the sparkling blue of the Aegean Sea.
You’ll also stumble across a handful of proper traditional tavernas and restaurants dotted around Kolios. These are the kind of places where you can sit back, take your time, and tuck into some proper Greek home cooking. Think the freshest seafood, caught that very morning, proper hearty stews, and of course, lashings of that incredible Greek salad with tomatoes that taste like sunshine. The atmosphere is usually dead friendly and laid-back, and you might even end up having a good old chat with the owners.
Now, don’t go expecting loads of shops or a nightlife scene that goes on till dawn in Kolios. That’s not really its cup of tea. What you will find is a real sense of peace and quiet, a place where you can properly unwind and leave all the everyday stresses behind. It’s the kind of spot where the loudest sounds are likely to be the gentle whoosh of the waves and the happy chirping of the crickets. The overall vibe of Kolios is one of understated beauty and a lovely, slow pace of life. It’s a place where you can really feel connected to the beautiful natural surroundings.
What to do?
The number one activity in Kolios has got to be soaking up the sun on that lovely beach. Spend your days having a swim in the clear water, getting a good tan (sensibly, mind!), and maybe even having a go at some gentle water sports like paddleboarding or just bobbing about on a lilo.
Exploring the local tavernas and restaurants is an absolute must-do in Kolios. Take your time over your meals, really savour the delicious grub, and soak up the friendly atmosphere. Loads of them have outdoor seating with cracking views, making every meal feel like a special occasion. Keep an eye out for the daily specials – they often feature the freshest fish and local ingredients.
If you’re feeling a bit more energetic, you can have a proper wander along the coastline. There are some lovely little paths that link Kolios to the bays nearby, offering some cracking views. It’s a grand way to stretch your legs and maybe discover a little hidden cove.
Being on the south coast of Skiathos, Kolios is also a handy base for having a proper explore of the rest of the island. The local bus service is easy to get to from Kolio, so you can hop on and go and see other beaches, villages, and the main town of Skiathos itself.
For those who fancy getting out on the water, you might find local places offering small boat hire or boat trips that take you around the coastline and to the little islands nearby. It’s a brilliant way to see hidden beaches and enjoy the crystal-clear water from a different angle.
Evenings in Kolios are best enjoyed with a nice, cold drink at a local bar or taverna, watching the sun go down over the sea. It’s a proper peaceful and often quite romantic way to finish off the day. Because there aren’t loads of bright lights, you might even get a beautiful view of the stars.
Who would enjoy Kolios?
Kolios is just the ticket for those who are after a tranquil and relaxing holiday, well away from the hustle and bustle of the more popular resorts.
If your idea of a perfect getaway involves lazy days on a beautiful, uncrowded beach, tucking into delicious and unpretentious food, and a generally peaceful atmosphere, then Kolios will likely be right up your street.
Families with younger kids will find Kolio particularly appealing because the beach is safe and the whole vibe is relaxed. It’s a grand spot for little ones to have a play.
Couples looking for a romantic break will love the quiet evenings and the chance to spend some quality time together in a really beautiful setting.
Solo travellers who are after a peaceful and safe base to explore Skiathos will also find Kolio a welcoming spot. It’s easy to get around, and the locals are a friendly bunch.
Kolios isn’t the place to go if you’re after a wild nightlife with loads of clubs and bars. It’s also not ideal if you need a massive choice of shops and activities right on your doorstep. It’s for those who value peace, proper relaxation, and a more authentic taste of Greek island life.
Basically, if you’re after a low-key and charming spot to enjoy the beauty of Skiathos at a slower pace, where the focus is on simple pleasures and genuine unwinding, then Kolios might just be your perfect Greek escape. It’s a place to recharge your batteries, have a relaxing time, and soak up the Mediterranean sunshine in a truly tranquil setting.
Kolio is approximately 8 kilometers from Skiathos Town. You get the peace of a smaller village, but you’re not isolated.
Options to travel to Skiathos Town:
Bus: The bus service on Skiathos is pretty reliable. There’s a regular bus that runs along the southern coast, connecting Agia Paraskevi to Skiathos Town. It’s a cheap and easy way to get around.
Taxi: Taxis are readily available, but they’ll be a bit more expensive than the bus.
Car/Scooter Rental: If you want more freedom, you can rent a car or scooter. This gives you the flexibility to explore the whole island at your own pace.