Wilderness Walks: Treading lightly on Island Trails in Alonnisos
From forested peaks to historic stone paths and tranquil chapels hidden in aromatic groves, Alonnisos invites you to explore at a gentler pace. These trails, shaped by nature and tradition, reveal the island’s quiet soul—encouraging low-impact travel, local stewardship, and deep connection with the land. Whether climbing Mount Kalovoulos, descending from Chora to the sea, or circling Agii Anargyri’s green sanctuary, each route is a sustainable journey into the heart of the Sporades.
Explore Alonnisos from above, where each mindful step protects the wilderness that surrounds you.
📍Mount Kalovoulos, North Alonnisos
Mount Kalovoulos might not be the tallest peak, but it offers one of the most scenic and serene hikes on the island. The trail winds through a lush pine forest and over rugged terrain, gradually revealing sweeping vistas over the Aegean Sea and the nearby Sporades. Along the way, hikers will encounter endemic plants, the occasional wild goat, and complete silence broken only by the sounds of birdsong and the wind through the trees. It’s a place where nature reclaims its rhythm and invites you to match it.
What to expect:
• Moderate Trail: Approximately 3 hours round trip, accessible with good physical condition.
• Varied landscapes: Pine forests, limestone cliffs, and sea views.
• Total silence: An immersion in nature, far from the tourist trails.
Why it's sustainable:
• Access is only on foot, with no major construction.
• The trail is marked by local volunteers and supports gentle tourism.
• It helps raise awareness of the natural wealth of the Alonnisos National Marine Park.
Reconnect with tradition on a route once walked by generations no car required.
📍Chora to Patitiri Trail
This historic footpath once served as the main artery between Alonnisos’ old capital and its harbor town and it still offers a unique way to experience the island’s daily rhythm. Descending gently through olive groves and stone terraces, the route is shaded, quiet, and punctuated by traditional homes, gardens, and expansive views over the sea. Whether you hike it at sunrise or sunset, the trail is a beautiful blend of natural charm and cultural connection.
What to expect:
• A historic trail that avoids roads and motorized transport.
• Encourages zero-impact travel and preserves Alonnisos’ cultural landscape.
• Walking supports local eco-initiatives and reduces peak season traffic.
Why it’s sustainable:
• Traditional Route: 1.5–2 hour hike, mostly downhill, accessible for all levels.
• Shaded Sections: Walk under pine canopies and along cobbled paths.
• Local Life: Pass by gardens, goats, and panoramic terraces with old stone houses.
Breathe deep in Alonnisos’ green heart, where quiet paths help preserve the island’s natural balance.
📍Agii Anargyri Loop Trail
Ideal for a short, serene escape into nature, the Agii Anargyri loop takes you through dense green woodlands where the scent of pine, thyme, and sage fills the air. The trail is well-loved by local walkers and is home to many birds and small wildlife. At its midpoint lies a whitewashed chapel surrounded by total tranquility. It’s an easy loop, perfect for those looking for a restorative forest walk without leaving a trace behind.
What to expect:
• Easy Loop: A gentle 4 km walk, ideal for families or a morning stroll.
• Botanical Richness: Wild oregano, thyme, and blooming herbs line the path.
• Hidden Chapel: The whitewashed Agii Anargyri chapel is a serene highlight.
Why it’s sustainable:
• The loop is fully within a protected area and maintained by local volunteers.
• It promotes mindful, low-impact exploration with no added infrastructure.
• Offers a chance to disconnect from modern life and reconnect with nature.