4 Sep 2025

THIS AND THAT

by | posted in: Monthly roundup | 0

On 17 September 2024, the mayor wrote to inform me that the Ministry had approved 600,000 euros for the Trails project, submitted some 4 years previously. I was then informed that the work had been put out to tender, the result of which would be by the end of June this year. I have now learnt that the amount of 275,000 euros has been allocated for the trails project and will be finalized by the end of September. Draw your own conclusions.

The first volunteer of the autumn season arrives on Sunday. Her name is Kirsten and she’s from Germany.

I’ve been asked several times, even though it is mentioned on this website, where my books can be purchased locally. Hoharoupa stationery shop, Puesto coffee shop are open all year round and carry stocks plus Juices & Books (summer only).

For those who don’t subscribe to social media (those who do can stop reading now) I have been finding eggs placed in the same location in Myli over a period of about 2 years now. On hiking this trail recently, there was not only two more eggs but also a clove of garlic. Among the comments, Sue has suggested it may be a folklore. Such things are often peculiar to certain countries and I’ve no idea if this one is for Greece and apart from the Blue Eye and strings of garlic, I’m not aware of any other protective measures folk here take.

Two more plus clove of garlic
2 Jul 2025

BITS & PIECES

by | posted in: General Announcements, Uncategorized | 2

Guided hikes have had to be suspended due to the intense heat; even evening time doesn’t cool down enough. I’m sorry to all those who have contacted me wanting a guided hike but I really don’t think it’s a good idea. And to those who want to see the bridge at Kriavrissi – there is no phone signal in the Gorge, the narrow trail we created is crumbly and should you fall, you will certainly break something or worse, as it’s a long way down. The bridge itself should not be walked upon.

The Trail project for signs and maps was submitted in 2021. After the field work, a study was created and went through the various government departments for approval and in September 2024, €600,000 was allocated. In January of this year, it went to auction to see who would carry out the required work. The result was supposed to have been published by the end of June. That has been and gone and I still haven’t been informed of the outcome.

In preparation for the next Skopelos Trails publication, the theme of which will be Mammals and Bats of Skopelos, we are looking for images of any mammals, dead or alive. So that would include, hares, hedgehogs, martens, rats and other rodents. A GPS location of where the image was taken would also be very handy. A photo credit will be given for any images used. Also, a reminder that any horned viper sightings are also required for use by the University of Thessaloniki Biology department.

Learn some local names: Dymaka – near Ag Reginos Pirgos. Vothana – the pond near the Skopelos Experience, Loutsa

Thanks to George Papalapas who has repaired and restored the vandalized bench at Michalakis. What to say about the brain-dead idiots who damaged it. …

1 May 2024

A Field Guide to the Insects of Skopelos

by | posted in: Uncategorized | 0

I’m very proud to have sponsored the migration, printing and publication of this wonderful new edition.

First published in 2015 by Doctors Brian and Elizabeth Ridout, it could easily have fallen into the memory of time as it became out of print and thus no longer available.

Brian and Elizabeth are biologists who have specialized in the conservation of heritage buildings around the world. In 2003 they came to Skopelos to visit friends. They liked it so much they subsequently bought a house in town and later (now sold) kalivi in the once beautiful Moutero and ever since visit several times a year.

It soon became apparent to them that there were no reference works available to identify the insects commonly seen on their walks in the countryside and decided to write one themselves! The task took TEN YEARS of research and was originally a basic field guide.

Text and most images by Brian Ridout, the scenic images are by Lisa Manly and the design and cover photo is by Heather Parsons. It’s available on line here and at the following local shops: Hoharoupa (next to Vodafon), the old Kiosk old port, Ideas, Juices & Books and the kiosk in Glossa by the school.

The Ridout’s wish to thank Heather for turning the new edition into a work of art as well as of science.

5 Jan 2020

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

by | posted in: path clearing | 0

2019 was a very busy year for Skopelos Trails. We started work on 12 January and continued through until 18 December (except July/August). We cleared some 30 trails, installed 3 flights of steps and hosted 39 volunteers from 13 different countries. Our sponsors #RigasHotelSkopelos and Pension Kyr Sotos continued to provide accommodation, Wolf Garden provided equipment, Nikos Orfanos kept the loppers sharp, Anne Perry helped me with this WP account Agapi Karamanli (Anna’s) and Machi Ambelakia provided a banquet, Gusto provided a giant pizza and Eva Karras donated some food. I thank you all!

There are exciting plans ahead of us. Let’s hope we can make them happen!