Alonissos - About the Greek Island

This lovely Greek island is 16 miles long and four miles wide and like the other larger islands of The Sporades group - Skiathos, Skopolos and Skyros - remains relatively green throughout the summer months as a result of the dense areas of pine forests and olive groves that blanket large areas of the landscape. In the early part of the season, May/June before the intense heat, this greek island is carpeted in a marvellous array of wild flowers.

The Greek Island Alonissos is dedicated as Greece's only environmental marine park because of the resident colony of monk seals. The protection of these amazing creatures means that water sport activities and large scale fishing in offshore waters are prohibited. As a result, the waters are spectacularly peaceful, clear and clean. We have often seen huge seals basking in the shallow waters beneath Villa Nissi early in the morning. Dolphins are very evident too, pods will often race alongside any form of watercraft or be spotted from the terraces of the villa.

Fishing is still a main form of employment on the island and wonderful catches are landed daily, you can select your fish as it is brought ashore at The Fanari taverna in Steni Vala or the harbourside tavernas at Kalamakia and be savoring a delicious meal within the hour.

Another of this island's unique attractions is the world renowned Holistic and Homeopathic Learning Centre which is situated on the road between Patitiri and Villa Nissi.

The ancient old capital town of Hora tumbles over one of the highest peaks on Alonissos. This is a delightful maze of carefully restored properties, shops, tavernas and bars almost all of which have spectacular views along the coastline and out to the neighbouring islands. There is a paved signed footpath/donkey track from Patitiri up to, and around the village. Elsewhere on Alonissos there are a number of well organised and maintained trails which take one through the varied landscape of the island, You can walk these trails with the benefit of the guidance and knowledge of a professional leader, or make your own way as the trails are well signed.

There are many lovely beaches on this island, most are made up of large pebbles and all are within beautiful sheltered coves. You can choose between those accessible by motor vehicle, many of which have small tavernas and bars. Or by hiring a small boat you could take yourself off to one inaccessible by road with the likelihood of having it all to yourself.