Monastery of Evangelistria

If you love to explore, your holiday to Troulos isn't complete without a visit to the Monastery of Evangelistria. Perched on the top of a hill around four kilometres north of Skiathos Town, it's the perfect way to complement your lazy days at Troulos Beach. It's around half an hour's drive to get to the Monastery of Evangelistria from Troulos. If you're getting the bus, take it all the way to the terminus in Skiathos Town. From there you can take one of the regular minibuses that heads up to the monastery, or walk it if you're feeling active. It takes around an hour on foot as you pass through fragrant pine forests, but be wary that it's uphill for large parts. However you get there, you can't help but be impressed by the monastery when you do. There are stunning views back down over Skiathos and out across the Aegean Sea, so don't forget to take your camera with you. The monastery was built towards the end of the 18th century, and the very first Greek flag was raised here in 1807. Stepping inside the historic monastery, you'll see the main church and the chapels of Agios Ioannis and Agios Demetrios. Wander among the old stone buildings and try to imagine the simple life that was led by the monks all those years ago. After you've explored outside, make your way into the monastery's museum, which is housed in the old olive press building. You'll see an array of artefacts including clothes worn by priests, 17th century books and manuscripts, and Byzantine icons. Following your visit to the Monastery of Evangelistria, continue exploring Skiathos' lovely countryside by finding a walking trail to hike along. Or head back to Troulos and watch the sunset from the beach.