Alonissos - 'The Jewel' of the Northern Sporades islands being less developed, retaining its unspoilt charm. Known for its crystal clear waters around the beautiful shore line and beyond, with an abundance of varied and rare marine life. This was recognised in 2013 officially and the island was awarded Gold in the prestigious European clean coastal waters and beach awards. The sea around Alonissos is part of Europe's biggest Marine Park (the first Greek National Protected Waters) which is the home of the indigenous and endangered species of the Mediterranean Monk Seal ( Monachus Monacus) amongst other interesting sea life. This green island rises from the sea and showcases its hilly terrain which is laced with pine forests and oaks that go right down to the coves and beaches. These forests and gorges are there to be explored with the many naturally designated walks that meander up and around to reward you with stunning views out to sea. Look up to the sky and you could see the rare Eleonara Falcon hovering or swooping down for its next prey, there is plenty of interest for all nature lovers. The fragrance of the many herbs that grow in abundance, scent the air and evoke a sense of calmness and tranquility as you walk amongst the butterflies fluttering around the pine, oak and olive trees. You are never too far from an unspoilt beach as the island is roughly only 24 kilometres in length and around 4 kilometres at its widest. The island of Alonissos unlike the majority of other Greek islands has a population of approximately 2,000 local inhabitants and yet has around 5,000 'beds' available for the visitor, consisting of simple studio pensions, apartments, hotels, right through to high end secluded luxury villas with private swimming pools. Whichever type of accommodation you chose, Alonnisos Travel has the right one for you to enjoy a genuine traditional Greek holiday experience. Regular ferries, catamarans and hydrofoils leave from the main port of Patitiri to Skopelos, Skiathos and the Greek mainland. There are many beautiful villages and fishing ports to visit, including the stunning old town of Alonissos (Chora) high up on the hill together with smaller ports of Votsi, Steni Vala and Kalamakia, that look after the smaller vessels and the many local fishing boats. Alonissos remains a quiet, naturally beautiful and tranquil place, interrupted on occasions by the musicality of the many hundreds of goats and their bells. These are often seen making tracks with their goat herders as they walk through the undergrowth foraging on rich pickings along the way. This really is a spectacle and can be one of the highlights of your vacation. A traditional island to be enjoyed by the holidaymaker looking for an aromatic, natural, green island with walks, beaches, relaxing swimming, together with many activities to take part in, such as scuba diving, various excursions on land or sea, boat rental enabling you to enjoy and explore the neighbouring 'uninhabited' islands and monasteries. Alonissos, it's where dreams and special memories are made.