Car & Van Hire - Skopelos

Since it played a major role in the 2008 film Mamma Mia, Skopelos has become a popular destination for tourists in Greece. ABBA fans often flock to the Agios Ioannis Church, the site of the movie's wedding scene. Even if you have no interest in musicals, it's worth paying a visit. This dramatic church, set high on a rocky outcrop overlooking the water, is extremely striking. To get to the church's front door, you'll need to climb 198 steps, but you'll be rewarded with spectacular views across the clear blue waters of the Aegean Sea.

While Agios Ioannis may be the most distinctive church on the island, it's not the only one. In fact, as you walk the narrow alleys of Skopelos Town, you'll pass no fewer than 120 churches. Some of them date all the way back to the 11th century, while others are built more recently and blend into the surrounding whitewashed houses. This charming town, with colourful bougainvillea draped across its walls, is a delight. You can easily spend a full afternoon walking through the cobbled streets.

As well as churches, Skopelos has several monasteries. Car or van hire in Skopelos is the best way to explore them, discovering the unique features of each one. Perhaps the most interesting is Agios Riginos Monastery. The building you see today was built in 1728, but a monastery has stood here since the days of the Byzantine Empire. Today, it is not an active monastery, but it continues to attract pilgrims each year on 25 February, the feast of St Riginos. There are still some active Orthodox monastic communities on the island. If you'd like to visit them, be sure to dress modestly.

Of course, this is a Greek island, so it has some fabulous beaches! You can take advantage of car hire in Skopelos to visit Panormos Beach, about 12 km from Skopelos Town. It faces west, making it the perfect spot to watch the sunset. It's also a lovely spot by day, with a water sports centre and all the facilities you need to relax and enjoy yourself.

Kastani Beach is another popular destination for a day trip. It is sandier than most beaches on the island, which tend to have a lot of pebbles. This was a filming location for Mamma Mia, so tour boats stop here – but they don't disturb the atmosphere of the beach, which is quiet and peaceful. There are no bars or restaurants here, so be sure to bring your own picnic if you'd like to eat lunch!

Car hire is one of the best ways to get around Skopelos. This is a very small island, just 17 km from one end to the other, so you won't need to worry about long distances. Be aware that there are narrow, winding roads that run high up on rocky outcrops. This is particularly true in the north part of the island, while the south is generally flatter. Drive slowly and cautiously. There is usually enough space to pull over and let faster cars pass – and to admire the views, which are frequently spectacular!

Be prepared for steep twists on the mountain roads. You will often encounter blind spots, so it's important to keep things slow and steady. In general, locals here do not drive as fast as many of their southern European neighbours, which can be a blessing. Watch out for motorcycles, which are very common in the islands, often driven by teenagers. Give them a wide berth if you can.

Parking in Skopelos can be a bit chaotic at times. In the summer months, the local government often imposes parking restrictions, effectively turning parts of Skopelos Town into a pedestrianised zone. Pay attention to the current restrictions, and don't be afraid to ask at your hotel for advice. You will still find parking areas at the far end of the old harbour, and in some car parks on the outskirts of the town.

Although Skopelos is small, it has its fair share of animals. Watch out for herds of goats crossing the road. If you find yourself trapped behind a group, you'll need to be patient. Wait for them to pass, and don't be tempted to honk your horn – they might respond by trying to attack your vehicle! In general, you should avoid using your horn in Greece. It is not as common here as in other European countries, and you can be fined for unnecessary use, particularly in urban areas.

The one time that a car horn is a necessity is when you are driving on steep mountain roads. If you are heading uphill and there are sharp turns ahead, you may wish to honk out of courtesy to let other drivers know you are coming. Local drivers frequently do this.