National Marine Park of Alonnisos Northern Sporades Adventures

Established in 1992, the National Marine Park of Alonnisos Northern Sporades is located in the Northern Sporades archipelago in the Aegean Sea, covering a total area of approximately 2,260 square kilometers, with 1,850 km² of marine zones and 410 km² of land distributed across six islands. This park serves as a critical sanctuary for the endangered Mediterranean monk seal (Monachus monachus), one of the rarest seals globally, and hosts diverse marine life including dolphins, seals, sea turtles, and extensive Posidonia oceanica seagrass beds which play a vital role in the marine ecosystem. The terrain includes rocky coastlines, small bays, and steep cliffs combined with lush Mediterranean vegetation such as pine forests and maquis shrubland on land.

Visitors are attracted by its pristine marine environment, which supports snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, and birdwatching, especially on Alonnisos and surrounding islets. The park is a popular destination for sustainable marine tourism, emphasizing conservation education with several protected areas where human access is restricted to minimize ecological disturbance. Hiking trails on Alonnisos provide scenic views over the Aegean and access to remote coves. Historically, the islands also hold archaeological sites and traditional fishing villages, adding cultural depth to the natural experience.

Regulated access is required in many zones to balance protection efforts with visitor enjoyment. The park’s management includes efforts to monitor and maintain habitats critical to endangered species, combat marine pollution, and promote eco-friendly tourism practices. The combination of marine biodiversity and terrestrial landscapes offers a unique blend of outdoor activities framed by natural beauty and conservation priorities.