The village of Glossa in Skopelos

Glossa village located ca 14 miles from the capital of Skopelos and it is a beautiful picturesque village, built at the slopes of a hill. Its  houses, are examples of Macedonian architecture , reach to the sea. It used to be called Platana, from the many plane trees that grow in its ravines.

Glossa is the second port of Skopelos. Visit the monastery of Agios Taxiarchis with its wood-carved gold-painted iconostasis and the chapel of Ai-Yiannis, built on a rock with 104 carved steps, offers a magnificent view. Don’t miss the events organized by the Cultural Association, “Loizeia”, at the beginning of August, dedicated to the composer Manos Loizos, which last for a week. For swimming you can go to Loutraki. There are sandy beaches in Xontrogiorgi and Ai-Yiannis.

The village retains its traditional architecture, characterized by stone houses, narrow winding streets, and colorful details. Many of the houses have wooden balconies, which are often adorned with vibrant flowers. As you wander through the village, it’s hard not to be enchanted by the labyrinth of alleys and stairways that crisscross the settlement.

Glossa has a variety of amenities, including restaurants, cafes, and shops. Given its location, many eateries offer panoramic views, making dining a particularly memorable experience. The central square is a hub of activity, with locals gathering there, especially in the evenings.

Near Glossa, one can find the Church of Agios Ioannis Kastri, a small chapel perched on the top of a rock, which became famous through scenes in the movie “Mamma Mia!”. The climb to the chapel is somewhat steep, but the panoramic vistas are rewarding.

The pace of life in Glossa is slower than in more bustling tourist destinations. The inhabitants, numbering just over a thousand, are known for their hospitality and maintain many of the island’s traditions. It’s not unusual to see locals dressed in traditional attire during festivals or special events.

The natural environment surrounding Glossa is lush and green, with pine forests extending to the edges of the cliffs. This verdant landscape contrasts beautifully with the deep blue of the Aegean. Olive groves and almond trees are common sights in the area.

While tourism plays a significant role in the local economy, especially in the summer months, Glossa is not overly commercialized. Agriculture, particularly olive oil production, and fishing are still crucial economic activities for many locals.

Glossa can be reached by road from Skopelos Town. There’s also regular ferry service connecting Loutraki (the port serving Glossa) with other islands in the Sporades group, as well as the mainland.