health
March 14, 2026
Pristine waters teeming with marine life: a deep dive into the Greek island of Alonissos
Divers come for one of the world’s most significant marine reserves, but there’s plenty to do on land too – from hiking trails and beaches to seafood tavernas
TL;DR
- The National Marine Park of Alonissos Northern Sporades is Greece's largest operational marine protected area, known for its abundant and diverse marine life.
- Alonissos hosts Greece's first underwater archaeological park at the Peristera wreck, a 5th-century BC site preserved with amphorae.
- Citizen science projects, like the Highly Protected Mediterranean Initiative, involve logging native and alien species through snorkelling and diving.
- The island is surprisingly lush, with Aleppo pines, oaks, maples, and olive trees, offering hiking trails and scenic views.
- Beaches like Agios Dimitrios, Kokkinokastro, Kremisma, and Gialos provide opportunities for relaxation and spotting marine life.
- Patitiri, the main port town, offers accommodation, shopping, tavernas, a museum, and the Monk Seal Information Centre.
- Chora, the historic hilltop 'old town', offers restored stone houses, churches, Byzantine walls, and stunning views.
- The marine park's establishment was crucial for protecting the local population of monk seals, a highly endangered marine mammal.
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