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A trip to the small Greek island of Skiathos will leave you with one thought in your mind: have I been here before? Well, you may not have been here in real life, but you will have certainly seen its blissful surroundings in the blockbuster film, Mamma Mia.

Aside from its celebrity status, Skiathos boasts a calendar of cultural events that will keep you entertained for months! You can book flights to Skiathos in time to catch the various religious feasts including the Assumption of the Virgin, which takes place August 15th. These celebrations have remained unchanged since the fifteenth century, so you really feel a sense of timelessness on this little Island. The festival will be celebrated with traditional Greek folk music, tempting treats such as baklava, kataife and loukoumadhes, and of course the infamous ouzo!

During the months of July and August, expect to see artistic photography displayed on the walls of the vine-clad whitewashed buildings which trickle around the cobbled streets. Greek artists display their paintings and sculptures in Skiathos' open air theatre during the day and in the evenings there are ballet performances, concerts, film projections and traditional Greek shadow theatre, also known as Karagiozis.

Located about four miles north of Skiathos Town, The Moni Evangelistria (The Holy Monastery of Annunciation) is one of the most compelling monuments in the north Sporades. Founded during the Byzantine period, it is set amongst beautiful country side. With three domes and many frescoes, the church itself is enthralling. There is also a museum here which is worth a visit unto itself. Filled with Byzantine icons, liturgical vessels and a host of other church related items, it has a lot of lovely items on display.

Skiathos also has some of the most beautiful beaches in the Aegean. Head to the north of the island where the beaches remain unspoilt and sparsely populated due to its relative inaccessibility. They can be easily reached by foot, or you can try the more relaxing option of going by boat. The best beach is Koukounaries, but you can find your own secluded bay easily if you fancy making a day of it. If you want well organised beaches with sun beds and water sports aplenty, then head further south where there are local amenities and plenty of tavernas selling the delicious Greek specialty, moussaka, which can be topped with the delicious locally produced wines. The pine-forested beaches of the south also make a lovely excursion as you can go on a trek to the nearby lake through the shade of the trees.