ISLAND

Alonissos: the island of the natural mixture

Talking about mixture we mean the harmonious encounter of nature and liquid component, in an island ideal for those seeking quiet and relaxing vacation. Characteristic feature of Alonissos is the National Marine Park, which hosts endangered species such as the Mediterranean Monk Seal Monachus-Monachus.

It is one of the first islands to be inhabited. In Cape Kokkinokastro have been found skeletons of rhinos, small-sized horses and deer, while nearby Vrahos, lies an ancient sunken city, which is irrefutable proof of the long history of the island. Alonissos is also noted for its natural beauty. A tour of the island is a unique experience that guarantees unforgettable memories. Lush landscapes, dense pine forests, pristine beaches, turquoise waters and beautiful beaches make up the wonderful nature.

Chora or otherwise Patitiri

The capital of the island is an attraction itself and definitely deserves full attention. Although it is not saturated with tourism has significant tourism infrastructure for those who want to go there on summer days. The capital and port is Patitiri. The name is owed to the grape presses that were previously in the area and was the main occupation of residents. During the tour you will visit the building which housed the command post during the occupation by the Ottomans and the Venetians, and you can get a taste of history.

The fact which will impress you most is the strong presence of the green component which is perfectly combined with white houses and the tops of the brick, creating a magical landscape. While walking the narrow streets of the city you will find Folk Art Museum which belongs to a local family. Here you will have the opportunity to see outstanding examples of the folk heritage of the island.

Do not forget to visit the holy temple of Virgin in order to admire its impressive decorations in the dome and the sacred.
You must absolutely pay a visit to the Marine Park where have found refuge and protection a kind of seal. The special maritime vessels are available for guests to make a tour to discover the islands of this unique habitat.

Entertainment

As for your entertainment you will find a wide range of options to suit your preferences in music and activities. Greek holiday mean nothing and cannot be authentic if traditional feasts are not included. Island festivals and similar institutions, you will be able to find at the feast of the Virgin Mary on August 15, the most popular celebration of the Greek islands.

Dreamy beaches

Beaches are the highlight of Alonnisos and best that can meet someone in the Aegean. For diving you will trust the beach near the Patitíri and the those which surround the island, as Rousoum Gialos showing great tourist development in recent years, Platsoukia and Xrisi Milia, which is the most popular on the island.

You can also wear your swimsuit and head to the beach Kokkinokastro located northeast of the capital. It is a place of unprecedented beauty. Just in the opposite side of Kokkinokastro and a few meters away is the island Kokkinonisi or Vrahos that you can visit by boat and it is famous for its archeological sites.

Just 3 km from Patitiri lies the village of Marpountas. There are two superb sandy beaches surrounded by towering cliffs. It is relatively quiet and offer tourist accommodation.
Finally beaches stand out for its natural beauty is Leukos Gialos which owes its name to the white sand, St. Demetrius, one of the largest and most popular beach on the island and the Great Mourtias, a picturesque village with tavernas on the sea.

Interesting suggestions

Since Alonissos is reputed for alternative vacation, a trip around the islands of Alonissos is something that definitely needs to integrate in your program. Starting from Giura, you will visit the caves for a brief exploration. Particular interest presents the cave of Cyclops, a real monument of   drippers that will amaze you.
Continue to Pelagonisi where is the Monastery of Virgin Mary and the beach of Saint Peter with the fantastic sandy beach. Just opposite you will find the island “Papous”, which is probably the smallest of all.
Skantzoura is the next island you will meet. Wonderful beaches, the monastery of Evaggelistrias with the friendly guest house and the few residents-pastoralists will welcome you with a unique way.
In Psathoura, the next isle are located the ruins of the ancient city on the seabed. A Characteristic feature is the bright beacon, eternal leader of the vessels.

Hmm... How delicious!

One of the things you will never forget is the local cuisine. The island is famous for its tasty dishes. Alonissos is a paradise of fresh fish. Try fish soup, stuffed squid, lobster on the barbecue eggplant and the local chesspie called "tylichtiri". And as a meal should be accompanied by a tasty desserts, prefer the traditional sweets of the island as rocheta, palms and soutsoukia. Rice pudding, the walnut, the almond and baked figs with honey have also a magnificent taste.

How to get to Alonissos

From Volos, you will arrive by ship in 4 hours. Otherwise by hydrofoil to less than 3 hours. The service is quite frequent during the summer months. From Agios Konstantinos you can also get the ferry, the journey takes four hours by the conventional and by the speed you can get around in 2 hours and a half. At the same time there is an every day bus company of Minoan Flying Dolphins which departs from the central square of Athens, Syntagma with destination to St. Constantine.

Useful phones

Alonissos municipality: 24240-65555
Clinic: 24240-65208
Pharmacy: 24240-22590
Police: 24240-65205
Port Authority: 24240-65595

Επιμέλεια: Ξένια Καποπούλου