Alonissos holidays

It’s a mostly pebbly situation beach-wise. The north coast’s home to a bevy of rocky bays, while the south lines up more sheltered coves. Many can be difficult to get to but, on the plus side, this means calm atmospheres and untouched scenery are the order of the day. For a left-field option, head to Kokkinokastro – its a mix of sand and shingle that’s been turned a deep reddish hue by the cliffs above.

The horseshoe-shaped curve of Agios Dimitrios begins on a slender, pine tree-sprinkled peninsula, which juts out into the turquoise sea. Model-good looks and far-reaching views of Vassiliko – a neighbouring island – make it a top spot for taking holiday photos. It’s around 25 minutes’ drive from Patitiri, and comes with a couple of friendly sandside taverns.

Vithisma’s one of Alonissos’ rare sandy offerings, sat in a protected bay around 10 minutes’ drive from Patitiri. You’ll need to navigate your way down a craggy hillside to reach it, but the rewards are worth the trek. Panoramic views and calm shallows are the calling cards.

Local products such as honey, soap and olive oil are readily available in the old town. Cooking fans can stock up on jars of the wild herbs grown on the island – like thyme and oregano.

Coloured candles and silk scarves are popular keepsakes in the local shops. At the Marine Park information centre, you can help the local monk seal population by picking up souvenirs, as all the profits go straight to the conservation effort.

In Patitiri, you’ll find silver and gold jewellery and trinkets made by Greek designers. Everything from earrings to sculptures line the walls of the local boutiques. In Chora, one-off art prints are on offer.

Watch the sun set from a tavern in the old village of Chora. It’s on a hilltop, so the sea views are second to none. You won’t find much in the way of evening entertainment, but if you’re a fan of laidback live music to go with your sundowner, it’s just the ticket.

Late-night bars and clubs are few and far between in Alonissos, but Patitiri has a great option for those looking to dance ‘til dawn – or at least until after midnight. In Drunk Seal, a waterfront bar, you’ll find rainbow-coloured cocktails and a DJ playing music until the small hours.

Alonissos’ speciality used to be wine, but after an infestation wiped out most of the island’s vineyards a few decades ago, the locals changed tack. Today, the blue fin tuna products made in Alonissos are considered to be some of the world’s best.

Sugar fans will have no complaints. Fouskakia – dough balls fried in olive oil – originate from Skopelos, but you’ll find plenty on offer in Alonissos’ villages. For something a little different, try hamalia. These triangle-shaped filled sweets are made with almonds, honey and water extracted from lemon tree flowers.

Lobster pasta, calamari and a Greek delicacy called kakavia – AKA fish stew – are all familiar faces on meze menus across the island. In fact, the seafood’s so good, even far-off countries like Japan come calling for Alonissos’ catches.

Goats graze all across the island and produce excellent milk, meaning the cheese pie – a local favourite – around these parts is extra creamy. For dessert, walnut pie steps up to the plate. The Greek name for it’s karidopita, and it’s usually served with ice-cream.

Family-run bakeries have poped up all over Alonissos – particularly in Patitiri and Chora – so you’re never far from a cup of traditional Greek coffee. As well as the standard breads and pies, you’ll find a huge selection of local options, like sweet baklava and spinach-filled spanakopita.