Alonissos is the quietest of the larger Northern Sporades. It has neither the crowds of Skiathos nor the fame of Skopelos. But it has two things no other island has: its Old Chora and the National Marine Park.
The Old Chora
For centuries the islanders lived high up, in the Chora, out of sight of pirates. After the earthquake of 1965 the village was abandoned and its people moved down to the harbour at Patitiri.
In the years that followed, the Old Chora came back to life. The stone houses were restored one by one, and today its lanes, with views of the Aegean on two sides, are among the most atmospheric corners of the Sporades.
The Marine Park
In 1992 the National Marine Park of Alonissos and the Northern Sporades was founded, the first marine park in Greece. It includes Alonissos and many smaller islets, and protects one of the most important refuges of the Mediterranean monk seal (Monachus monachus), one of the most endangered mammals in Europe.
Respect the sea
Parts of the park have restrictions on fishing, anchoring and approach. If you see a seal, keep your distance and do not disturb it. Boat trips from the island are run by professionals who know the rules.
Photographs
