Description of Alonnisos
Alonnisos stands in the
Aegean Sea like a mountain densely covered with pine trees and arbutus bushes. The sea around
Alonisos has been declared a national marine park as it is the area of breed of monk seal
Monachus Monachus and is the cleanest in the
Aegean. The west part of the island is rocky but the part on the east has many beautiful pebble beaches while there are many
hotels providing accommodation facilities.
Geography of Alonnisos
The area of
Alonnisos is 64 sq. km. with a total population of 2.700 residents. The islets nearest to
Alonnisos are part of the Municipality of
Alonissos and are not inhabited: Adelfoi, Kyra Panagia, Persitera, Piperi, Skantzoura and Psathoura. The island closer to
Alonnissos is
Skopelos on the southwest.
History of Alonnisos
Alonnisos has been populated since Neolithic Era. The island mostly due to its distant position did not play a vital role in the main historical events but it was surely affected.
Alonnisos is the ancient island of Ikos and has been a member of the Delian League and participated in the wars against the Persian invasion. It has been part of the Roman and then the Byzantine Empire till it was conquered by Hairentin Barbarossa and went under Ottoman Rule until 1830 when
Alonnisos became part of the Greek State. In 1952 the vineyards of the island were struck with the disease of phylloxera resulting with many islanders moving away. In 1965, an earthquake destroyed Chora the capital town of
Alonnisos.
Sightseeing on Alonnisos
The island of
Alonnisos became popular because of the unique
marine park protecting the seals
Monachus Monachus, dolphins and other important species that live mainly in the caves of the coasts. You can visit the protected area by boat excursions. The picturesque Chora capital of
Alonnisos lays its beauty on the top of a hill offering great view. You should really take a walk around the alleys where you can find several
restaurants,
bars and
hotels in traditional houses. The beaches are splendid with clear sea and you can choose among many of them: Milia, Votsi, Chrisi Milia, Megalos Mourtias, Roussoum Yialos, Megali Ammos, Kokkinokastro.
Local Products of Alonnisos
There is plenty of fresh fish and sea food. Tilichti is the local cheese pie. Try the local olives and wine.
Getting to Alonnisos
By ferry or catamaran boats departing from Agios Konstantinos Port, Volos Port or Thessalonica.
Best time to visit Alonnisos
From June to September.
Useful Phone Numbers on Alonnisos
Police: +30 24240 65205
Port Authorities of Alonnisos: +30 24240 65595
Doctor: +30 24240 65208