Is Patitiri / Alonissos a good destination for a beach holiday?
Alonissos, where Patitiri is the main port, is excellent for a beach holiday if you appreciate nature, exceptionally clear waters, and a tranquil atmosphere. The island is part of a National Marine Park. Its beaches are more about natural beauty and peacefulness than organized beach parties. While not known for vast sandy expanses, its pebble and shingle beaches are set in picturesque coves, often surrounded by pine trees.
What are the beaches like in Alonissos, mostly sandy or pebbly?
The beaches in Alonissos are predominantly pebbly or a mix of sand and pebbles. Chrisi Milia is known as one of the few primarily sandy beaches and is popular for this reason. The pebbles contribute to the remarkable clarity of the water. Bringing water shoes can be a good idea for comfort on some beaches.
Can you swim in the sea at Patitiri port itself?
Yes, you can swim at the beach in Patitiri port. Despite its proximity to the port, the water is known for being crystal-clear. It's a small pebble beach convenient for a quick dip if you're staying in town, though many visitors prefer to explore other beaches around the island for a more extensive beach experience.
Are there beaches within walking distance of Patitiri?
Yes, besides the Patitiri port beach itself, Roussoum Gialos is a popular shingle beach about a 15-20 minute walk from Patitiri, offering tavernas and sunbeds. Votsi beach, a small pebble cove, is also relatively close, about 1km from Patitiri. For a wider selection, transport is generally recommended.
Is it easy to find accommodation right on a good beach in Alonissos?
While Patitiri is the main port with many accommodation options, some of the most popular beaches like Chrisi Milia, Leftos Gialos, and Megalos Mourtias have some hotels, rooms, or villas nearby or directly on/overlooking the beach. However, many of Alonissos's beaches are intentionally kept natural and undeveloped. Staying in Patitiri or the Old Village and traveling to different beaches is a common approach.
How do I get to the other beaches on Alonissos from Patitiri?
To reach most beaches from Patitiri, you can rent a car, scooter, or ATV. There's a public bus service in summer connecting Patitiri to the Old Village and Steni Vala, which provides access to some beaches or areas near them. Boat taxis and excursions are also a popular way to reach many beaches, especially the more secluded ones or those on nearby islets.
What's the water like for swimming around Alonissos?
The waters around Alonissos are renowned for being exceptionally clear and clean, often described as turquoise or emerald green. This is partly due to the pebble beaches and the island's location within the National Marine Park. The sea is generally calm, especially in the numerous sheltered coves, making it ideal for swimming and snorkeling.
When is the best time to visit Alonissos for a beach holiday?
The best time for a beach holiday in Alonissos is generally from June to September when the weather is warm and sunny, and the sea is at its warmest. May and late September/October are also excellent, offering pleasant temperatures, warm seas, and fewer crowds.
Are Alonissos beaches suitable for families with children?
Yes, several beaches on Alonissos are suitable for families. Chrisi Milia is particularly popular as it's one of the island's sandiest beaches with shallow waters. Agios Dimitrios, while pebbly, often has calm, clear waters and some organization. Tzortzi Gialos is also mentioned as having shallow waters good for children. Many beaches are in sheltered coves, which is good for younger swimmers.
Are there organized beaches with sunbeds and tavernas on Alonissos?
Yes, Alonissos has a mix of organized and non-organized beaches. Beaches like Leftos Gialos, Chrisi Milia, Agios Dimitrios, and Megalos Mourtias typically offer sunbeds, umbrellas, and have nearby tavernas or beach bars. However, there are also many secluded, natural beaches with no facilities for those seeking tranquility.
Can you recommend some quiet or secluded beaches on Alonissos?
Alonissos has many quiet and secluded beaches, especially if you're willing to explore. Agios Petros is a small, secluded pebble beach. Tzortzi Gialos is in a calm bay. Milia beach offers seclusion amidst pine woods. Mikros Mourtias is known for being peaceful. Many smaller, unnamed coves can be found by exploring the coastline, sometimes best accessed by boat.
Are there any nudist-friendly beaches in Alonissos?
While Alonissos doesn't have many officially designated nudist beaches, some more secluded spots are known to be naturist-friendly. Vythisma beach is often referred to as an unofficial nudist beach due to its remote location and difficult access. Mikros Mourtias and Spartines have also been mentioned as places where nudism might be practiced. It's always best to be discreet and respectful of others.
How do Alonissos beaches compare to those on Skopelos or Skiathos?
Alonissos is generally quieter and more nature-focused than Skiathos, which is known for its numerous sandy beaches and lively atmosphere. Skopelos has a mix of pebble and sand beaches and is greener, sharing some of Alonissos's tranquility but perhaps with more accessible sandy options than Alonissos. Alonissos stands out for its exceptionally clear waters, marine park, and more rugged, unspoiled coves, which are often pebbly.
Are boat trips recommended to see the best beaches in Alonissos?
Boat trips are highly recommended on Alonissos. They provide access to some of the most beautiful and secluded beaches and coves that are difficult or impossible to reach by land. Excursions often visit beaches within the National Marine Park and around the nearby uninhabited island of Peristera, offering unique swimming and snorkeling opportunities.
What is Kokkinokastro beach known for?
Kokkinokastro ('Red Castle') beach is known for its unique and dramatic scenery, featuring reddish cliffs that contrast with the clear turquoise waters and colourful pebbles. It's also an archaeologically interesting site, as remnants of an ancient settlement, possibly the ancient city of Ikos, have been found in the area, and some underwater ruins are said to be nearby.
