They call it affectionately “Golden Sand” – which, of course, might seem cliché after its widespread use (and overuse) in travel reports since the advent of the internet. In its case, however, it’s an apt moniker. Indeed, it’s not only the “golden” feel of the sand but also its combination with the wonderful surrounding forest, as well as the fame for its sunset. That’s why many consider it one of the most beautiful beaches in all of Greece.

This refers to Koukounaries, the idyllic coastline in the small, eponymous village of Skiathos, which is located on the south-western side of the cosmopolitan Northern Sporades island. Moreover, it’s one of the few areas outside the capital with permanent residents – 126 people, according to the 2011 census (an update of the data is expected, with the detailed publication of the 2021 census results).

The village’s older name was Strofylia, which has survived as a toponym in the surrounding area. Over time, however, Koukounaries prevailed, reflecting the pine forest that, as we said, spreads around the settlement and the beach, adding green to the already idyllic golden and blue colours of the seaside landscape.

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