Skiathos is one of the most popular islands in the Sporades chain of Greek islands in the Aegean sea. With over 60 beaches and a host of wonderful tavernas and quiet shops, it is the perfect place for a family holiday, and with a huge selection of self catered accommodation to rent, both apartments and whole villas, it can be a surprisingly low cost place to take the kids and enjoy the ambience of the Sporades islands, with its pine wooded mountains and stone roofed villages.

The main attraction of Skiathos is its selection of 60 beaches, from the most well known Koukounaries to the naturist beach right next to it - the unfortunately named Banana beach. Once you've spent a few days working on your tan, the beaches are also popular with swimmers, and the older members of the family can also spend a few evenings investigating the nightlife and going clubbing. There are also a lot of jewellery shops. And away from the beaches and tourist centre, you can also go hiking across the green terrain and appreciate some of the culture of Skiathos by exploring Kastro, the abandoned medieval centre of the island. Also, it is possible to take trips to the other islands in the Sporades including the attractive but much quieter Skopelos and Alonnisos.

There are a huge selection of apartments and villa rentals in Skiathos City and all over the island, so it is well worth shopping around for deals. It is certainly possible to rent a villa large enough to accommodate a family of four or more for less than £500 a week, which is a great money saving option compared to the cost of booking hotel rooms. And as the villas come fully equipped with all modern comforts, plus luxury features such as private pools and wireless internet, it will certainly not feel like a low cost holiday. The extra privacy and space also mean that villa rentals are great for kids - the youngest members of your family can run around and let off steam without you needing to worry about disturbing your neighbours!