About Alonissos
Alonissos is one of the Sporades Islands. There are three other inhabited islands in the group: Skopelos, Skiathos and Skyros. Alonissos is the smallest at about 14 miles by 5 miles. Its resident population is around 2500. Sporades means “sprinkled”. An apt description of these beautiful green islands dotted in the Aegean.
All four islands have their own particular character and magic but they are all endowed with that wonderful quality of light and life so unique to Greece. Alonissos has not been invaded by any of the big package companies and keeps its spellbinding Greek charm. Alonissos is well known throughout Greece for its crystal clear seas and the area of deserted islands around Alonissos and has been declared an official marine park and is Europe’s largest.
There is excellent walking and a wealth of wildlife to see in Alonissos' oregano and thyme-scented pine forests. It's a peaceful oasis and a blissful escape from the modern world.
Alonissos is part of the National Marine Park of Alonissos. This status will give you an idea of the wealth of rare flora and fauna that exists on the islands around Alonissos.
The deserted areas around Alonissos are home to the Mediterranean Monk Seal (Monachus Monachus), the most endangered marine mammal in Europe. Common dolphins, striped dolphins and pilot whales may also be seen. Snorkelling and diving offers an opportunity to glimpse the glorious underwater life in the Park.
There are over 80 species of bird on the islands. These include the endangered Shag, Audouin's Gull and Eleonora's Falcon.
The island has areas of dense pine forests. Olives, almonds, junipers and maples and the rare Amelanchier chelmea also thrive.
The wild flowers in the Spring are quite amazing. Every patch of land turns into a carpet of vivid colour, We have many varieties of orchids, masses of poppies and gladioli amongst many others.
On the island of Yerakas we have the rare breed Capra Aegagrus of wild goat.