This tiny beach, tailor-made for two, is one of many delightful surprises around the Skopelos coastline.

This one, discovered by Martin and Maisie from the UK, is within easy access from a major, frequently visited resort, but still very private.

For those that have visited Skopelos: any guesses which?

I was pleased to be able to recommend it to another Martin and Teresa on their honeymoon from the Czech Republic

On their last day, again at the crack of dawn, Andrea, Jiri and myself visited another of the Skopelos islands treasures: Ag. Taxiarchis.

This small chapel has always been important to the community of Skopelos. The picturesque and difficult to reach monastery is shielded from vision by the mountainous terrain. It stands in isolation, surrounded by many fresh water springs in pristine nature on the downslope of the Palouki mountain, high up above Velanio beach. The whole terrain faces the open Aegean with a chain of islands forming the Marine Park For me this vista and setting amount to eternity!

For the keen walkers, paths in use have been joined into a continuous walk all the way from Skopelos harbour. I have completed the two hour walk many times, but nowadays prefer and easier route, which is to drive along the bad and stony dirt track to what was animal shelter, park the car there and make my way down the slope.

As uever on Skopelos, there is a hearsay legend relating to Ag.Taxiarchis, that during WW2 New Zealand soldiers parachuted down, were hidden there by the islanders, to be sailed to the shores of Asia Minor.

At crack of dawn, Andrea and Jiri - from the Czech Republic - joined me on my visit to the Dimenika.

It is where the Sendoukia, three graves chiseled on top of a mountain and facing east, are located. Notwithstanding their undocumented ancient past, for me this area is imbued with positive energy. It is also a place of some of the most diverse and useful plant species growing on Skopelos island.

During the leisurely walk to and from the top of the mountain, we covered a broad range of local legendary hearsay. We also looked at plants, some of which we took back with us to look at closely for their multitude of edible to medicinal use.

Stretching our outing to cover Karia, Jiri had the opportunity there, to taste and make a breakfast of his favourite fruit: figs. These are unavailable in the wild of the Czech Republic and already past their season in other parts of Skopelos, so a great find.

A well-spent morning I would say!

This summer many have experienced the kind of heat which is normal for us in August.

On these days, it is often pleasant to make an end to the evening by leaving the lively fun of the harbour front behind, to stroll through the cool, mysterious lanes of the Old Town, back to the quietness and tranquility of 39steps.

The roots of the Panegyri extend back to ancient times, but in our days it is a church-centered celebration held by the community to celebrate the feast days of patron saints.

A Panegyri is important in the Greek Orthodox Church. On 15 August thousands of churches throughout Greece, which are dedicated to the “Panaghia” (Virgin Mary) hold a Panegyri. They are attended by all ages, from toddlers to great, great grandparents, which increases the positive vibes and enthusiasm within the community.

So, forget the plate smashing Zorba the Greek nights which are set up to attract tourists. It doesn't merit comparison with the local Panagyri, which is fueled by community spirit, plenty of wine, food and heady dancing, and more and more dancing into the early morning hours and further.

Don't worry about not knowing the steps; you will be taught if you decide to dance the night away with the Greeks!