Explore the island of Alonissos on foot via ancient paths through maquis scrubland, passing deserted Byzantine settlements and dramatic sea views. The island is the centre of the National Marine Park of Alonissos, the largest marine protected area in Europe.
The Alonissos Marine Park Coastal Trail explores the island of Alonissos in the Northern Sporades archipelago, part of the National Marine Park of Alonissos Northern Sporades — the largest marine protected area in Europe, covering approximately 2,200 square kilometres of sea, seabed, and coastal land. The main loop trail covers roughly 10 kilometres around the northern part of the island, passing through maquis scrubland of myrtle, rosemary, sage, and wild thyme, with coastal views across the protected marine park and the uninhabited surrounding islets. Alonissos is reached by ferry from Volos (approximately 3 hours by conventional ferry or around 2 hours by high-speed vessel), and from Skiathos and Skopelos. The main port of Patitiri serves as the island hub; the trail is accessible on foot from Patitiri or by taxi to the Old Alonissos trailhead. The trail follows a combination of ancient donkey paths and marked walking routes maintained by the local municipality. Surface conditions are predominantly compact earth and stone with sections of exposed root, loose coastal rock, and occasional steep cliff-edge paths. Elevation gain is gradual, spread across gentle coastal ridge ascents rather than a single sustained climb. Wooden signposts and painted waymarkers guide hikers through most sections, though some cliff-top stretches require attention. Old Alonissos (Hora), the medieval hilltop village abandoned after a 1965 earthquake, is a central feature of the trail. The partially restored village of cobblestone lanes, whitewashed houses, and panoramic views over the marine park is inhabited today by a small community of artists and residents. Several secluded pebble and sand coves are accessible by short descents from the main path. The marine park was established in 1992 primarily to protect the critically endangered Mediterranean monk seal (Monachus monachus); approximately 60–70 seals inhabit the park, representing one of the largest remaining populations in the world. The island's terrain also supports Eleonora's falcon, Audouin's gull, and the European shag. The Marine Park Information Centre in Patitiri provides detailed information on the conservation programme and seasonal restricted zones.
Trail facts
- Trail area
- Alonissos, Northern Sporades
- Best season
- May to October (ferries run April–October; May–June and September–October are optimal for hiking; July–August is hot with limited shade)
Highlights
- National Marine Park views
- Old Alonissos abandoned village
- Monk seal territory
- Wild herbs and flowers
- Secluded swimming coves
Tips for visiting
- Visit the Marine Park Information Centre in Patitiri before hiking to understand the monk seal conservation programme and any seasonal boat and coastal access restrictions
- Carry sun protection, a hat, and ample water; the maquis scrubland provides minimal shade and the island is hot and dry from June through August
- Early morning hiking between 06:00 and 09:00 offers the best opportunities to observe Eleonora's falcon and coastal seabirds before the heat builds
- Book ferry tickets from Volos or Skiathos well in advance for July and August travel; the Northern Sporades ferries fill quickly during the summer peak season
When to visit
May through June and September through October offer pleasant temperatures, full ferry service, and noticeably fewer visitors than the July–August peak. The coastal scrubland provides minimal shade, making early morning starts advisable in the summer months.
Accessibility
The Alonissos coastal trail includes mostly gentle terrain but is not wheelchair or stroller accessible. Cliff-edge path sections, loose coastal rock, and uneven donkey-path surfaces require sure footing throughout the 10-kilometre loop.
Frequently asked questions
What is the National Marine Park of Alonissos?
It is the largest marine protected area in Europe, established in 1992 primarily to protect the critically endangered Mediterranean monk seal. The park covers approximately 2,200 square kilometres of sea and coastal terrain across the Northern Sporades archipelago.
Is there a chance of seeing Mediterranean monk seals on the hike?
Monk seals are shy and very rarely observed from shore. Boat excursions departing from Patitiri offer significantly better sighting opportunities in the seals' coastal cave habitats. The marine park information centre in Patitiri provides current guidance on sighting locations and responsible wildlife viewing.
What is Old Alonissos (Hora)?
Hora is the medieval hilltop village of Alonissos, abandoned following a major earthquake in 1965 and subsequently partially restored. The cobblestone streets, whitewashed buildings, and sweeping views over the marine park and surrounding islets make it the island's most scenic destination.
Are swimming opportunities available on the trail?
Yes. Several pebble coves and small beaches are accessible by short descents from the main coastal path. The waters around Alonissos are among the clearest in the Aegean, and swimming is permitted in most coastal zones within the marine park.
When do ferries run to Alonissos?
Regular ferry services from Volos, Skiathos, and Skopelos operate from April through October, with reduced schedules in winter. Hellenic Seaways and other operators serve the Northern Sporades routes; advance booking and current timetables are available at the Patitiri port office.