Booking a hotel in Skiathos with a sea view can significantly enhance your stay, as the island is known for its stunning coastlines, crystal-clear waters, and breathtaking vistas. Whether you want to wake up to a panoramic view of the Aegean Sea or enjoy the sunset from your balcony, choosing the right hotel with a sea view is key to making the most of your vacation. Here are some tips to help you book a hotel in Skiathos with a fantastic sea view:
- Decide on the Type of Sea View You Want
Not all sea views are created equal, and different locations in Skiathos offer varying perspectives of the ocean:
- Seafront Rooms: For the best view of the sea, look for rooms directly facing the water, often referred to as “sea view rooms” or “oceanfront rooms.”
- Partial Sea View: These rooms may not offer a full, unobstructed view of the sea but can still provide beautiful glimpses of the water or be located in a position that gives you a partial view of the sea alongside other scenic features.
- Panoramic Sea View: If you want an expansive view that stretches across the horizon, look for hotels with rooms offering a panoramic view of the sea, often from a higher floor or hillside location.
- Sunset Views: If you’re interested in capturing the sunset, look for a hotel located on the west side of Skiathos, where you can enjoy unobstructed views as the sun sets over the Aegean.
- Choose a Location with the Best Sea Views
Some areas of Skiathos offer better sea views than others. Consider these popular areas when booking:
- Skiathos Town (Chora): Located on the western coast, Skiathos Town offers some of the best views, especially from hilltop hotels or suites with balconies overlooking the town and the sea.
- Koukounaries: A popular area with beautiful beaches, many hotels here are situated near the water with great views of the bay and surrounding beaches.
- Kanapitsa: Located on the southern part of the island, Kanapitsa offers stunning views of the coastline and neighboring islands, and many hotels offer rooms with balconies overlooking the sea.
- Vassilias: This area offers scenic sea views, with some higher-end resorts and hotels perched above the bay, offering panoramic vistas of the water and nearby islands.
- Aghia Paraskevi: Located on the southern coast, this beach area has many hotels offering views of the calm waters and lush greenery.
- Ensure Your Room Has a Sea View
Not all rooms in a hotel may offer a sea view, even if the property is located near the water. When booking:
- Request a Sea View Room: Always request a sea view room directly when making the booking, especially if the description of the room does not specify that it has one.
- Check Room Descriptions: Some hotels may offer multiple room types with different views. Look for descriptions like “sea view,ocean view,panoramic view,seaside” in the room listings.
- Check the Floor Level: Higher floor rooms often provide better and less obstructed sea views. Ask for a room on a higher floor (ideally above the second or third floor) to ensure a better perspective.
- Avoid Obstructed Views: Be aware that some rooms with “sea view” may be partially obstructed by buildings, trees, or other structures. Confirm with the hotel if the view is fully unobstructed.
- Look for Hotels with Elevated Positions
Hotels situated on higher ground or hillsides often provide superior sea views, as they are less likely to be blocked by surrounding buildings or landscapes. These types of hotels tend to offer more expansive vistas of the sea:
- Hilltop Resorts: Look for hilltop hotels or properties with terraces on higher ground that overlook the bay or sea.
- Cliffside Hotels: Some hotels on the island are perched on cliffs, providing panoramic views of the Aegean. These can be ideal for stunning views but may require a bit more walking or climbing.
- Check for Balcony or Terrace
To fully enjoy the sea view, having a private balcony or terrace is essential. When booking:
- Request a Room with a Balcony: Confirm that the room includes a balcony or terrace that offers a clear and comfortable vantage point for watching the sea.
- Consider Suites or Higher-Rated Rooms: Higher-end rooms, such as suites, often come with larger balconies and more expansive sea views.
- Read Reviews and Look at Photos
Before finalizing your booking, check reviews and images uploaded by previous guests. These can provide insight into the real views from various rooms. Look for:
- Guest Reviews: Pay attention to comments about the view, particularly those who mention the room’s sea view quality and whether it matched the description.
- Photos: Check for guest-uploaded photos or photos on the hotel’s official website. These can help you see exactly what to expect from the room’s view.
- Photographer Credits: Hotels often use professional photos to showcase their views. While these are usually accurate, they may not always reflect the actual view from all rooms, so it’s good to check guest photos.
- Book Early for Best Sea View Rooms
Sea-view rooms, especially the most coveted ones (e.g., direct oceanfront or panoramic views), can sell out quickly, especially during peak tourist season (June-August). To secure the best sea-view rooms:
- Book Early: Reserve well in advance to ensure you get your preferred room type with the best sea view.
- Ask for a Sea-View Upgrade: If you’ve already booked a room, but want to upgrade to a room with a better sea view, don’t hesitate to ask the hotel if upgrades are available upon check-in. This might come with an extra cost but could be worth it for the added experience.
- Consider Sea View Room Rates
Rooms with sea views tend to be more expensive than standard rooms. Keep the following in mind:
- Budget for the Extra Cost: Sea-view rooms generally cost more, so be sure to factor this into your budget. The price difference can vary depending on the season and the specific hotel.
- Check for Special Offers: Look for special promotions or discounts that may make booking a sea-view room more affordable. Sometimes, booking during the off-season (May-June or September) can get you a better rate.
- Look for Hotels with Infinity Pools or Rooftop Lounges
If you’re after the ultimate sea-view experience, consider booking a hotel with a rooftop lounge or infinity pool that overlooks the water:
- Infinity Pools: Many luxury hotels in Skiathos offer infinity pools with stunning sea views. Even if your room doesn’t have the perfect view, the pool area can provide a breathtaking sea-facing experience.
- Rooftop Bars or Lounges: Some hotels have rooftop bars or terraces where you can enjoy drinks while gazing out at the sea, especially at sunset.
- Consider the Proximity to the Beach
While having a sea view is fantastic, also consider how close you are to the beach. Some sea-view hotels may be located a short distance from the beach, which can be ideal for easy access to the water:
- Beachfront Hotels: For the best experience, look for beachfront hotels that allow you to walk directly from your room to the beach with your sea view intact.
- Proximity to Scenic Beaches: Even if you’re not staying right on the water, make sure the hotel has easy access to the island’s most beautiful beaches like Koukounaries, Kanapitsa, or Agia Paraskevi.
- Look for Privacy and Seclusion
If you value privacy, opt for a hotel with secluded sea-view rooms or villas. Many hotels offer rooms in more private or quieter areas, giving you a more intimate experience while enjoying the view:
- Private Villas or Suites: Consider booking a private villa or suite that offers an exclusive sea view and more seclusion.
- Adults-Only Hotels: Some adults-only hotels focus on providing a quiet and private atmosphere for couples or those looking to relax without the crowds.
- Confirm the Seasonality of the Views
Keep in mind that sea views can change depending on the time of year and the landscape:
- Summer Views: In peak summer, you’ll likely have uninterrupted views of the clear blue Aegean Sea.
- Off-Season Views: If visiting in the off-season, the sea may be calmer, but some areas of the island may have more foliage or fewer boats in the water. Confirm the view during the time of year you are booking to ensure it meets your expectations.
By following these tips and carefully considering your preferences, you can ensure you book a hotel in Skiathos with the perfect sea view for your trip!
