Xionodromika

Alonissos: The shelter of the seal Monachus Monachus

Alonissos


Αλόννησος, Σποράδες

Alonissos is the northern island of Sporades islands complex and a perfect destination for nature-lovers and for those who are seeking the delights of a s mall Greek island.

Alonissos is a protected area for its numerous endangered species: more than 300 kinds of fish and 80 species of birds, among which the Queen falcon and above all the Monk Seal Monachus Monachus.

The need for the preservation of the monk seal was the motive behind the formation of the Marine Park. The area consisting of the park is ideal and contains a natural Mediterranean extremely well balanced ecosystem. The caves on the land, the stalagmites , the stalactites , the beaches and the underwater caves not only have an aesthetic value but a biological one as well.

Alonissos Map

The main town, Patitiri, is a sleepy harbour-side settlement with cafes and tavernas which overlook the comings and goings of the ferries and fishing boats.

Patitiri was chosen to be the main Port because is a natural harbour. It took its name from the old wine pressures (Patitiria)that used to exists, from when Alonissos was a red wine produser island. Patitiri became the main town of the island accomodating the facilities of life, today. Someone can find lots of places to stay and taste the delicious sea food snacks.

Further to the North we meet the next two fishing villages, Rousoum-Yialo and Votsi, located at two charming bays, one after the other.

Leaving Patitiri and taking the main road, leading West, after 3 km. you come to the old village of Alonissos. For those who love walking, there is the old donkey path, which takes you from the port to the old Alonissos within 30min.

You should also visit the islets: Skantzoura, Pelagonisi or Kyra Panagia, Yioura, Psathoura and Xiro or Peristera. The islet Piperi is the natural refuge of the monk seal. Approaching the island or visiting it is prohibited. Only research teams with a specific licence are allowed to approach.

Famous beaches in Alonissos island: Mikros Mourtias , Megalos Mourtias, Vythisma, Marpounta, Rousoum – Yialos, Tzortzi – Yialos, Leftos – Yialos, Chrysi Milia, Kokkinokastro, Glyfa and Agios Dimitrios.

How to get there

By Ferry: There are daily itineraries from Agio Konstantino and Volo to Alonisso. Duration of the trip: 5 hours και 30′.
By high speed boat: There are also departures of High Speed ferries from Agio Konstantino 2 hours and 40′ and from Volo 2 hours and 30′.
Connection with other islands: Alonissos is connected with Kimi, Aidipso, Oreus, Peuki, Platania, Thessaloniki, Marmara, Moudania, Porto Kara.

Alonissos Photos

Alonissos Useful Telephone Numbers (Calling code for Greece 0030)

Alonissos Port Authority
24240 65595
Alonissos Municipality
24240 65205
Alonissos Post Office
24240 65320
Alonissos Community Center
24240 65560
Alonissos Flying Dolphins
24240 65555
Alonissos Police Station
24240 65777
Alonissos national bank
24240 65208