Alonissos - Sporades

The long rocky island of Alonissos or Alonisos, Allonisos (formerly Khiliondromia; ancient Ikos), still one of the most remote places in Greece, lies half-way along the chain of the Northern Sporades and is the only inhabited island in the NMPANS (National Marine Park Alonissos, Northern Sporades). A ridge of hills runs along the island from end to end, reaching its highest point in Mount Kouvoúli (476 m). The north-west coast is edged by steep cliffs and has few indentations, but the south-east coast is more hospitable, with a number of sheltered bays and anchorages. In this area there are many traces of human settlement reaching back to the Neolithic times.

A hill wooded island. The old capital of Alonisos is deserted after an earthquake in 1965. The population relocated to Votsi and Patitri.

The population, mostly farmers and fishermen, live almost exclusively in the fertile southern part of Alonissos. On this side are the lovely little port of Patitiri and the Chora of Alonissos, formerly the chief place of the island, which was largely abandoned after and earthquake in 1965. Commandingly situated above the sea, with extensive views, the village is now increasingly being rehabilitated for tourists.

Off the south-east coast of Alonissos, separated from it by a wide sound, is the bare island of Peristera (Xeró). Both islands have an abundance of good and attractive anchorages which makes this area ideal for sailing holidays. Moreover, two ports - Steni Vala and Patitiri - are beautifully located and will offer most provisions. Further south-east is the island of Skantzoura (not indicated on the map), which belongs to the Monastic Republic of Athos (Chalkidiki) and is used for the grazing of goats. Skantzoura has a couple of Meltemi-proof anchorages and yachts are permitted to visit.

Places you can visit

Ormos Mourtia - An open bay located SW of Alonisos and offering fair shelter from the meltemi. Mooring is in the bay. There is no fuel or water available. If the weather is unstable it is far safe to moor in the harbor of Patitri.

Patitiri - Well sheltered from the meltemi and a good area to stock up. Mooring is stern or bow to, fuel & water are available at the quay. A short trip to the old village of Alonisos is nice and about a 30 minute walk. In general the harbor is very picturesque as it is surrounded by cliffs and pine trees and remains unspoiled.

Votsi - North of Patitri offers a good shelter from prevailing winds. Mooring is best off the small quay which is located to the east. There is limited fuel, a water truck can be arranged but this is of course if you find to moor on the quay.

Ormos Tzorti - A cove offering good shelter from the meltemi and a nice place for swimming. Anchor where ever possible and in rough weather take a long line ashore. The beaches are with fine sand and pine trees.

Steni Vala - This cove offers good shelter from the meltemi but is exposed to SW winds. There is a small quay but not recommend as the depth is one meter. There are small quaint taverns on shore.

Ormos Firakos - This bay is not recommend to spend the night as it is very exposed to the weather, but if it is a calm day it is recommend for a swim and lunch.