Alonissos Northern Sporades Marine Park Adventures

The Alonissos Northern Sporades Marine Park is located in the Northern Sporades archipelago in the Aegean Sea, Greece, encompassing the islands of Alonissos, Peristera, Kyra Panagia, and surrounding islets as well as a vast marine area. Established in 1992, the park covers approximately 2,200 square kilometers, making it the largest marine protected area in Europe. The park's geography features steep coastal cliffs, crystal-clear waters, underwater caves, and a diverse array of marine and terrestrial habitats. It serves as a vital sanctuary for the endangered Mediterranean monk seal, one of the rarest marine mammals globally, as well as for various dolphin species, sea turtles, and countless fish and invertebrate species. The terrestrial environment supports Mediterranean shrubs, pine forests, and rich birdlife. Outdoor recreation within the park focuses largely on hiking trails that traverse scenic coastal landscapes and traditional villages on Alonissos Island, snorkeling and diving in protected marine zones, bird watching, and boat tours that allow visitors to observe marine mammals in their natural habitat. The park also conserves numerous underwater archaeological sites. Its visitor appeal lies in the combination of ecological significance, outdoor adventure, and opportunities to experience unspoiled nature and local cultural heritage. Strict regulations within the park are in place to minimize human impact, ensuring long-term conservation of its unique marine and island ecosystems.