ALONISSOS

Alonissos is the quietest and least developed of the three Sporades islands: until 1975 it did not even have a road. Covering an area of 62 square kilometres , it is more barren than its neighbours, with scrubby maquis-type vegetation and an abundance of wild herbs whose scents mingle with that of the many pine trees. The west coast is rugged, with towering cliffs, while the east is gentler, sheltered by the neighbouring island of Peristera, which is home to just a few shepherds.

To the north of Alonissos lies a scattered archipelago of rocky islands which are often referred to as the ‘deserted islands’, since many of them were inhabited in ancient times, only to be abandoned. They now form part of a National Marine Park, established in 1992 to protect both the region and one of the most important habitats of the Mediterranean monk seal, once common throughout the Mediterranean. It was the first such park to be established in Greece and is the largest protected area in the Mediterranean sea.

Until recent years, most of the island’s small population of 2800 lived in the hilltop Old Town, but after an earthquake in 1965 they were forced to move down to the harbour town of Patitiri. Today the population is scattered between Patitiri and the neighbouring villages of Rousoum Yialos and Votsi, the little fishing hamlets of Steni Vala and Kalamakia, and the Old Town, which is gradually being repopulated. The main occupations apart from tourism are fishing and farming – primarily goats and olives. Until 1950, Alonissos was renowned for its red wine but unfortunately the vine disease phylloxera wiped out this industry almost overnight.

Around the island
The Old Town of Alonissos dates back to Byzantine times, when its hilltop location made it difficult to attack and provided many vantage points from which to watch the invading pirates. Today it offers a unique and relaxing holiday place, with picturesque scenes and panoramic views at every turn. Apart from a range of gift shops and stores, the town has several good tavernas and cafes.
The little harbour town of Patitiri has a very different atmosphere. From its waterside tavernas and cafes, you can watch the activity as ferries, fishing boats and hydrofoils come and go. Patitiri is well provided with supermarkets, bakeries, pharmacies and a fish market, and is also where the island’s bank and post office can be found.
The tiny port of Steni Vala, lined with fish restaurants, is a favourite spot for lunch, while Kalamakia, further up the coast and even tinier, is equally well provided with tavernas.

Beaches
Most of the beaches are of pebble or shingle and the water wonderfully clear, ideal for swimming and snorkelling, and while some can be reached on foot, others require a car, taxi or boat ride to be discovered. Water taxis from Patitiri serve Chryssi Milia, which is sandy and sheltered, as well as all the main beaches.
 

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ACCOMMODATION

OTHER ISLANDS
Halki
Skopelos

MAINLAND
Nafplio

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