Alonissos Holidays

Alonissos’ largest village is home to a good-looking harbour, a clutch of traditional taverns and fewer than 2,000 locals – so there’s a very comfortable feel to this place. It comes backed by a forest of pine trees, with whitewashed houses spilling down the hillside to a petite pebble beach. It got its name from the island’s original wine presses – patitiria. The village is also the transport hub – if you’re after a ferry, a bus or a taxi, this is where you’ll find it.

The island’s part of a National Marine Park, which focuses on protecting the fragile local ecosystem – rare species like red coral and eleonora’s falcons call this part of the Aegean home. The local superstars are endangered Mediterranean monk seals – the rarest in the world. You’ll be extremely lucky if you catch a glimpse of one, as they live in sea caves. There’s an information centre in Patitiri, where you can learn more about the seal colony and the conservation efforts to protect them.

Keen walkers will be in their element – there’s a maze of trails to trek all over the island. One’s an old mule path that leads from Patitiri to Chora – the island’s original capital. The residents abandoned the village after an earthquake struck in 1965. Up here, you’ll be treated to plenty of photo-worthy views. On a clear day you can see as far as Mount Athos, on the mainland.

Daily ferries set off from Patitiri to Skiathos, with some calling in at Skopelos – of Mamma Mia! fame – on the way. The trip takes a couple of hours, so you’re in fairly easy daytrip territory. In Skiathos Town, you’ll find a medley of cocktail bars and golden-sand beaches, along with a time-stamped old quarter. Make a beeline for the tree-dusted Bourtzi – it’s a tiny peninsula that used to be a fort.