Alonissos is a quiet little green island that has become something of a backpackers’ paradise. It is definitely not a party island, but the evenings are really nice. Enjoying good music and a cold drink, while sitting by the sea, with the stars above your head and the sea far below, are experiences you won't forget. You can also go on guided walks. In general, it is an island where you can enjoy total relaxation. The capital of Patitiri is the island's main harbour and the first place you see when you arrive on Alonissos. Patitiri means winepress in Greek and the village got its name from the fact that all the winepresses and storage areas for the wine of Alonissos used to be in this area. Unfortunately, the island's vineyards were devastated by Phylloxera (a North America bug that eats vine roots) in the late 60's, so there is now no local wine for visitors to try. It does have many nice shops and taverns though and the folklore museum is very interesting. A special island gifted with natural beauty, Alonissos offers mysterious sea caves, unlimited sandy beaches, revitalizing lush, green sites and crystal clear waters. Apart from its natural sites, it also has traditional houses, several churches and monasteries as well as other interesting sites. The only national marine park in Greece surrounds Alonissos. It was created for the protection of the Mediterranean monk seal (Monachus-Monachus), and other rare species of fauna and flora found in the archipelago of the Northern Sporades. If you’re lucky, you’ll see dolphins, seals, and turtles on one of the boat trips that are arranged. Most beaches on Alonissos are pebble beaches. Some can be reached by car, others by boat. If you can, explore the island on your own and find your own little paradise bay. Rousoum (meaning 'tax' in Turkish) Yialos is the most popular beach in the area. Diving is strictly forbidden because of the many ancient remains on the sea floor, but the snorkeling is very good. Chora is an absolutely beautiful little village with small café and local artists' shops. Here you can buy paintings, coloured candles and antiques. The small harbour of Votsi has many nice tavernas overlooking turquoise-green water surrounded by steep ochre-yellow cliffs. There is also a small quiet beach where you can swim. You can also swim at the nearby beach of Spartines. Votsi has no shopping centre so the harbour is the liveliest place with its small tavernas. Kalamakia is a small fishing harbour. The village is quite new, with not much in the way of rooms to let and only a few tavernas. It is a popular for the fresh fish and lobsters served in the waterside tavernas. Kalamakia's beach is small, but you could swim at nearby Agios Dimitrios. Stenivala is a small fishing harbour. The village is quite old but has kept its traditional character. Like Kalamakia, Stenivala is famous for fresh fish in the tavernas, all owned by fishermen. The hospital unit for monk seals is in here and if you are lucky you might see one there. Stenivala is becoming a popular yachting destination and the small port is usually full of sailing boats, giving a unique atmosphere. There are a plethora of rooms, apartments, small and medium size hotels, two Hotel-Clubs (bungalows) and places for camping. If you are interested in spending your holidays in the heart of a peaceful and natural environment, a visit to the island of Alonissos is in order to enjoy an unforgettable experience. |