Alonisos

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The Island of Viticulture

Emerald Waters, Verdant Forests and Mesmerising Sceneries at an Island of Pure Nature
An ark of unadulterated nature blessed with emerald waters and verdant vegetation, Alonisos is different from the other islands exuding its own mysterious character. Undeniably, the stigma of Alonisos is the beautiful pine forest that gives an aura of brightness and freshness to this tiny paradise. Interesting hiking trails cross the beautiful beaches and the verdant forests of the island create mesmerizing sceneries that will captivate you. Old windmills and forgotten threshing fields are everywhere. The discreet charm of the island transforms your journey into an adventure overlooking an unexpected view to the sea. Beyond the colourful seabed of the Mediterranean, it is no coincidence that Alonisos has the privilege to host the largest Marine Park in Europe, known as the residence of the sweetest monk seal Monachus Monachus. At the end of your journey, you will be enamoured from the serene atmosphere that Alonisos inevitably transmits and exudes to her admirers. Almost everyone has a secret paradise; maybe Alonnisos is yours.

 

Discover Alonisos

Best of Alonissos

The Capital of Alonnisos

The Town of Patitiri is the capital and harbour of Alonnisos located on the south side of the island. The settlement was built following the destruction of Hora from the major earthquake of 1965. Stone houses and narrow cobblestone alleys offer a unique atmosphere to the area. The entire village is surrounded from dense vegetation. On the main two streets of Patitiri, you can find a nice variety of bakeries, pastry houses, supermarkets and other local shops.

The Beach of Agios Dimitrios

The Beach of Agios Dimitrios is one of the most beautiful beaches of Alonnisos. It is a sandy beach with blue waters located on the west side of the island. The horseshoe shaped beach is the most beautiful beach of Alonnisos distinguished for its dramatic wild beauty.

The Beach of Kokkinokastro

The Beach of Kokkinokastro is one of the most beautiful beaches of Alonnisos. It is a sandy and pebbled beach with blue waters located on the south side of the island. The beach distinguishes for its huge reddish cliffs. The beach offers panoramic views towards the island of Kokkinonisi (Red Island). Here, one can admire the remnants of the most ancient city of Alonnisos.

The Circumnavigation of the Marine Park of Alonnisos

The Circumnavigation of the Marine Park of Alonnisos is one of the most beautiful experiences on the island. Discover the beautiful beaches of Agios Petros and Planitis on the isle of Kyra Panagia, the impressive cave formations in the islands of Gioura and Piperi, the sunken ancient city on the isle Psathoura, the charming chapel on the isle of Pappous and the wonderful bays and the monastery of Evangelistria on the isle of Skantzoura. Excursion boats operate from the harbour of Patitiri.

The Historical and Folklore Museum of Alonnisos

The Historical and Folklore Museum of Alonnisos is located in the harbour of Patitiri. Being the largest privately owned museum on any island of Greece, Kostas and Angela Mavrikis established the museum in order to give place to the cultural inheritance of Alonnisos.

The National Marine Park of Alonissos

The National Marine Park of Alonissos is the largest marine protected area in Europe occupying approximately 2,200 square kilometres. It is the first marine park of the country, the other being in Zakynthos, which comprises from the island of Alonnisos along with six smaller islets and twenty two rocky outcrops. The entire area is rich in marine life and the endangered species of the Mediterranean Monk Seal of Monachus-Monachus. The National Marine Park of Alonnisos has collaborated with the environmental organization called MOM, an official member of the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN).

The Village of Palio Horio

The Village of Palio Horio was the old capital of Alonnisos located on the south side of the island. Although the settlement was destroyed after the major earthquake of 1965, the majority of the houses have been restored. Nestling on the mountain slopes around the natural bay, the traditional settlement exudes an aura of tranquillity. Wandering around the village is one of the best promenades on the island. There, you will witness old houses and restored mansions with flowered courtyards along with some of the surviving byzantine churches. The charming square of Hora is an ideal place to enjoy your coffee under the shade of the trees. However, the most intriguing part of Hora is the astonishing views to the Aegean.

Archaeological Sites

The Archaeological Site of Kokkinokastro is located in the homonymous area. One can admire the remnants of the ancient city of Ikos that dates back to the Palaeolithic period. Unfortunately, not enough excavations have been made apart from the remnants of the ancient walls of the city. Here, one can admire one of the most reddish sunsets of the island.

Churches and Monasteries

The Chapel of Agios Georgios is located at the highest point of Hora. It is a traditional stone chapel with two interesting ecclesiastical icons from the 17th century. The church offers panoramic views of the surrounding areas.

The Church of Agios Athanasios is located in Hora. The church is one of the oldest churches of Alonnisos built in the 12th century. It has a beautiful cobblestone churchyard. Inside the church, one can admire an ecclesiastical icon from the 18th century.

The Church of Christ is found in Hora. It is one of the oldest churches of the island built in the 12th century. The church managed to survive from the severe earthquake that destroyed the island. The temple houses a rich collection of ecclesiastical icons from the 17th century.

The Monastery of Agioi Anargyroi is located on the western side of the island. It is a beautiful byzantine temple with astonishing views of the surrounding areas. The monastery wasdestroyed following the severe earthquake. Next to the remains of the old monastery, a new church has been built.

Institutions and Museums

The International Academy of Classical Homeopathy is located in Alonnisos. It is the only institution in the world dedicated exclusively to the teaching of Homeopathic Medicine. George Vithoulkas established the academy with the aim of providing education to medical students, doctors and other health practitioners in order to become classical homeopaths.

The Historical and Folklore Museum of Alonnisos is located in the harbour of Patitiri. Being the largest privately owned museum on any island of Greece, Kostas and Angela Mavrikis established the museum in order to give place to the cultural inheritance of Alonnisos.

Natural Beauties

The Blue Cave is located on the northeast side of the island. The rocky and wild coastline of Alonnisos is blessed with amazing caves. Excursion boats depart from the harbour of Patitiri to these remote caves.

The National Marine Park of Alonnisos is the largest marine protected area in Europe occupying approximately 2,200 square kilometres. It is the first marine park of the country, the other being in Zakynthos, which comprises from the island of Alonisos along with six smaller islets and twenty two rocky outcrops. The entire area is rich in marine life and the endangered species of the Mediterranean Monk Seal of Monachus-Monachus. The National Marine Park of Alonisos has collaborated with the environmental organization called MOM, an official member of the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN).

Promenades & Villages

Palio Horio was the old capital of Alonnisos located on the south side of the island. Although the settlement was destroyed after the major earthquake of 1965, the majority of the houses have been restored. Nestling on the mountain slopes around the natural bay, the traditional settlement exudes an aura of tranquillity. Wandering around the village is one of the best promenades on the island. There, you will witness old houses and restored mansions with flowered courtyards along with some of the surviving byzantine churches. The charming square of Hora is an ideal place to enjoy your coffee under the shade of the trees. However, the most intriguing part of Hora is the astonishing views to the Aegean.

Patitiri is the capital and harbour of Alonnisos located on the south side of the island. The settlement was built following the destruction of Hora from the major earthquake of 1965. Stone houses and narrow cobblestone alleys offer a unique atmosphere to the area. The entire village is surrounded from dense vegetation. On the main two streets of Patitiri, you can find a nice variety of bakeries, pastry houses, supermarkets and other local shops. The name of harbour means wine press in the native language. The name of this area dates back to the time when viniculture was the main source of income for the local population.

Steni Vala is a seaside village located on the southeast side of the island. Lying opposite a narrow islet, Steni Vala resembles a small fjord. The settlement is an ideal destination for lovers of nature, as the natural surroundings are beautiful. Diving enthusiasts are attracted to this village, since an organized diving school is located in Steni Vala while there is also an organized marina for anhorage. The center of the Protection of the Mediterranean Monk Seal (MOM) is based in Steni Vala.

Votsi is a seaside village located on the southeast side of the island. Considered as one of the most charming bays of Alonnisos, the beautiful settlement has a relaxing atmosphere. Traditional houses, labyrinthine alleys and verdant vegetation are dominated from the yellowish cliffs of the surrounding area.

Sunset Spots

Spot: Beach of Kokkinokastro, South Alonnisos

Spot: Beach of Tsoukalia, North Alonnisos

Spot: Chapel of Agios Georgios, South Alonissos

Spot: Mount Kalovoulos, Southern Alonnisos

Excursions

Boat Tour: The Circumnavigation of the Marine Park of Alonnisos is one of the most beautiful experiences on the island. Discover the beautiful beaches of Agios Petros and Planitis on the isle of Kyra Panagia, the impressive cave formations in the islands of Gioura and Piperi, the sunken ancient city on the isle Psathoura, the charming chapel on the isle of Pappous and the wonderful bays and the monastery of Evangelistria on the isle of Skantzoura. Excursion boats operate from the harbour of Patitiri.

Boat Trip: The Island of Skiathos is the queen of the Sporades.It is almost inevitable not to fall in love with the queen of Sporades. Culture and history are evident in every corner of Skiathos. This island will astonish you with the unparalleled beauty of the natural scenery and it will seduce you with the turquoise waters of the seashores. Shielded from verdant vegetation and the everlasting love with the deep blue of the Aegean, Skiathos is a true gem.  Resembling an old painting, this utopian paradise is embellished with endless beauties and azure waters with lush pine forests that will dazzle you! Just a few days in Skiathos are enough to transform this enthusiasm in everlasting love. Walk to the verdant sceneries of Koukounaries, admire the sunset from the beach of Agia Eleni, enjoy your cocktail at Maxilares, discover the inaccessible beaches through a boat trip and watch a movie under the relaxed vista of the stars of the Aegean! The most cosmopolitan island of the Sporades is a green paradise awaiting you to experience it! Bear to discover it for yourself? Excursion boasts operate from the harbour of Mantoudi.

Boat Trip: The Island of Skopelos is an earthly paradise on the Aegean. Whitewashed houses, colourful courtyards, labyrinthine winding alleys, sapphire and cherry doors, fuchsia bougainvillea and charming chapels rising like castles in the traditional settlement of Hora are the images that will be captured forever in the photographic memory of your mind. Though, the lush landscapes and the emerald waters will captivate your aura with a refreshing breeze. Skopelos has maintained her own authentic character. This intoxicating green island invites you to discover its mysterious beauties. The green colours of the pine trees meet the endless blue of the sea and create landscapes of incomparable beauty. The cameras are battling to capture the memory of the corners of Skopelos. Shut, shut, and shut! Are you ready to capture your own photographs on the greenest island of Greece? Excursion boasts operate from the harbour of Kymi.

Activities

Diving: The rich marine life and the seabed of Alonnisos makes it one of the most beautiful diving destinations in Greece. Numerous shipwrecks have been discovered off the coast of Peristera Island while the preserved marine ecosystem of the National Marine Park offers fourteen locations to explore. The largest natural marine park of the Mediterranean Sea is found in Alonnisos. Its impressive wildlife and amazing landscape give the feeling of intact natural surroundings. Experienced and properly trained professionals provide all support and services necessary for a magnificent scuba-diving experience. Diving schools are located in Patitiri and Steni Vala.

Driving: The verdant vegetation of Alonnisos offers fantastic sceneries to the entire island. One of the most beautiful routes starts from Patitiri abd leads of the fishing village of Steni Vala passing through thick pine forests and olive groves with stunning views of the southeast coast of Alonnisos. Make sure you always check the maps of Alonissos before you get into your car!

Hiking: There is no better way to discover the mysterious beauties of Alonnisos other than hiking and walking. (1) One of the most beautiful routes starts from the village of Patitiri towards the forest below the village of Palio Horio. Along the way, you will witness stunning views of the Aegean and the islands of the Marine Park. (2) If you are a wildlife enthusiast, you will certainly appreciate the beauty of the Megalo Horafi Mountain that dominates the center of the island. (3) A wonderful spot to enjoy the sunset is the Mount of Kalovoulos. It is a short walk easily accessible following the road from the foot of the mountain. Discover more routes from the Official Website of Alonnisos.

Kayaking: Sheltered from the neighbouring islet of Peristera, the crystal calm waters of the east coast of island have become an ideal destination for kayakers. It is definitely one of the greatest ways to explore the coastlines of Alonnisos and the Islands of the Marine Park. Various guided trips are organized from Alonnisos Kayak Safaris.

Yoga: Are you a yoga enthusiast? Alonnisos offers the opportunity to enhance your stay by joining one of the regular yoga classes of Kali Thea in the Old Village of Horio.

Beaches

Agios Dimitrios is a sandy beach with blue waters located on the west side of the island. The horseshoe shaped beach is the most beautiful beach of Alonnisos distinguished for its dramatic wild beauty. The beach is partially organized with sunbeds and umbrellas, a beach bar and a tavern.

Chrissi Milia is a sandy beach with turquoise waters located on the south side of the island. It is one of the most beautiful beaches of Alonnisos with numerous facilities including sunbeds, umbrellas, water sports and a tavern. The surrounding vegetation creates natural beauty sceneries.

Glyfa is a sandy and pebbled beach with turquoise waters located on the south side of the island. The surrounding vegetation creates natural beauty sceneries with panoramic views to the Aegean. The beach is an ideal spot for those looking for tranquillity and seclusion.

Kokkinokastro is a sandy and pebbled beach with blue waters located on the south side of the island. It is one of the most beautiful beaches of Alonnisos dominated from huge reddish cliffs. The beach offers panoramic views towards the island of Kokkinonisi (Red Island). Here, one can admire the remnants of the most ancient city of Alonnisos.

Lefto Gialos is a sandy beach with turquoise waters located on the south side of the island. It is one of the most secluded beaches of Alonnisos with beautiful natural surroundings.

Marpounda is a sandy beach with emerald waters located on the south side of the island. It is one of the most popular beaches of Alonnisos owing to its close proximity from Patitiri.

Megali Ammos is a pebbled beach with crystalline waters located on the north side of the island. The beach is renowned for its wild beauty with verdant vegetation. It is a secluded beach ideal for those looking for tranquillity.

Megalos Mourtias is a sandy and pebbled beach with emerald waters located on the south side of the island. The beach is well organized with sunbeds and umbrellas and other beach amenities. Protected from northern winds, the beach is also an ideal anchor for yachts.

Milia is a sandy and pebbled beach with turquoise waters located on the south side of the island. The beach lies in a beautiful bay surrounded from a thick pine forest.

Rousoum Gialos is a pebbled beach with emerald waters located on the south side of the island. It is a beautiful fishing village with numerous amenities. The coastline creates landscapes of unimaginable beauty.

Spartines is a sandy and pebbled beach with emerald waters located on the south side of the island. It is one of the most isolated beaches of Alonnisos with sceneries of wild beauty. The easiest way to access the beach is by boat.

Tsoukalia is a sandy and pebbled beach with turquoise waters located on the west side of the island. It is a charming beach with verdant vegetation. However, the most intriguing part is an area of great archaeological interest. The beach is ideal for those looking for tranquillity.

Tzortzi Gialos is a sandy and pebbled beach with blue waters located on the south side of the island. It is a secluded beach ideal for the lovers of nature. The surrounding vegetation creates natural beauty sceneries.

Vythisma is a sandy and pebbled beach with emerald waters located on the south side of the island. It is an isolated beach ideal for those looking for tranquillity.

Coffee Corners, Gastronomic Delights and Cocktails Inspirations

Coffee Corners

Book Store Cafe: Coffee, Old Village

Elia: Coffee, Leftos Gialos

Hayiati: Coffee and Pastries, Old Village

Ikion Cafe: Coffee, Steni Vala

Lithos: Coffee, Patitiri

Sunset: Coffee, Hill of Agios Onoufrios

Gastronomic Delights

Aquasanta Restaurant: Italian Cuisine, Old Village

Astrofegia: Greek Cuisine, Old Village

Dendro Limano: Seafood, Votsi

Eleonas: Greek Cuisine, Lefto Gialos

Kali Kardia: Ouzo and Meze, Votsi

Kamaki: Ouzo and Meze, Patitiri

Maina: Greek Cuisine, Kalamakia

Megalos Mourtias: Greek Cuisine, Megalos Mourtias

O Ditis kai I Kalimnia: Seafood, Steni Vala

Ostria: Seafood, Patitiri

Tassia: Seafood, Steni Vala

Cocktails Inspirations

Boheme: Cocktails and Drinks, Patitiri

Hayiati: Cocktails and Drinks, Old Village

Ikion Cafe: Cocktails and Drinks, Steni Vala

Panselinos: Cocktails and Drinks, Old Village

Local Products & Specialties

The local products of the island include the fish of tuna, the black wine of Alonnisos, the local olive oil and the cheese of mizithra.

The local specialties of the island include black linguini with tuna, frumenty pies, pumpkin pie with spices, fried cheese pie, meat pie of bourekia, and the doughnut dessert of fouskakia.

Events & Festivals

Every May, the Kalogiannia Festival takes place in the island in honour of the benefactor of Alonnisos namely Anastasios Kalogiannis. The festival includes cultural and sports events in the premises of the school of the island.

Every June, the Marathon of Alonnisos takes place in the island.

Every 16th of June, the Fishermen Festival takes place in the island. Local wine and food is offered to the visitors accompanied from traditional music and dancing.

Every July, the Wheat Threshing Festival takes place in Palio Horio. It is an open air event that represents the traditional way of threshing with the use of mules.

Every 15th of August, the Revival of the Wedding of Alonnisos takes place in Palio Horio.

Every 15th of August, the traditional celebration in honour of Virgin Mary takes place in Palio Horio.

History & Mythology

Mythology

Liadromia/Ikos was the ancient name of Alonnisos. According to mythology, the first inhabitant of the island was Stafylos, the son of Ariadne and God Dionysus, who introduced the tradition of wine making to the island. Ikion stamped wine vases were exported all around Ancient Greece. By this way, the strong association of Alonnisos with viticulture can be explained. The modern name of the island was taken from the word «αλς» meaning sea in Ancient Greek. Another legend associated with the island is that Pileas, the father of Achilles, spent the last years of his life in Alonnisos. Since Achilles was more famous than his father, the island was called Achiliodromia meaning the road of Achilles. Later on, this name was shorted to Liadromia.

History

Archaeological findings show that Alonnisos was inhabited since the Palaeolithic era. According to mythology, the first inhabitant of the island was Stafylos, the son of Ariadne and God Dionysus, who introduced the tradition of wine making to the island and established the first settlement of the island during the 16th century. The Minoan settlement adopted a Mycenaean character and moved in the region of Kokkinokastro. During the classical years, the inhabitants of the island worshiped God Poseidon while they accepted Christianity as their religion in the 3rd century AC. In 190 BC, Alonnisos was dominated from the Roman fleet. As not enough information exists, the occupation of Constantinople by the Franks in 1204 AC suggests that Alonnisos came under the Frankish domination. Following the domination of Constantinople from the Ottomans in 1453, the Sporades islands came under the Venetian rule until 1538 when the pirate Barbarossa led to beginning of the Ottoman occupation. During the Greek War of Revolution, many Greeks from different places of Greece arrived in Alonnisos and formed the present population of the island. An important fact in the history of Alonnisos was the severe earthquake of 1965.

Travel & Transport

By Air: Skiathos has an international airport with scheduled flights on an annual basis.  From April to October, there are charter flights from numerous countries of Europe. The journey from Athens usually lasts thirty to forty minutes. From Skiathos, you can get a boat from the harbour of Skiathos and travel to Alonnisos. The journey usually lasts one to two hours. Book your tickets with AirTickets.com!

By Boat (73 Nautical Miles): Alonnisos is accessible by boat from the harbours of Agios Konstantinos and Volos. The journey usually lasts five hours from the harbour of Agios Konstantinos and three to four hours from the harbour of Volos. Alonnisos is also connected with the harbour of Kymi in Euboea and the islands of Skiathos and Skopelos. Book your tickets with FerriesinGreece.com !

Mysterious Greece Tips

Cruising Around Alonnisos and the Isle of Peristera

Hire a boat or get your inflatable and discover the pristine bays of Alonissos and Peristera Isle. On the northern part of Alonissos, you will find the pristine bay of Gerakas ideal for mooring. You will find one of the finest beaches on the northern side of the isle. One can anchor on the bay of Vasiliki on the western side of the isle, an ideal bay for mooring protected from the winds. Also, the bay of Xero is an ideal anchorage well protected from the northern winds.

Discover the Blue Cave of Alonnisos and the Shipwreck on the Isle of Peristera

The Blue Cave is a magnificent sea cave located on the northeast side of Alonissos. If you have an inflatable, you can actually visit the inner of the cave. Surely an experience of a lifetime! Also, one will have the opportunity to discover the remnants of a semi sunken ship on the west side of Peristera Isle.

Emerald, Sapphire and Turquoise Waters

The best beaches of Alonnisos are hidden on the northwest coastline of the island under steep cliffs inaccessible from the land. If you are a fan of hiking, you can follow one of the numerous trails to get to this point. However, there are numerous excursion boats operating from the areas of Chrissi Milia, Megali Ammos and Patitiri. On the other hand, if you are a fan of the isolated beaches, ask a local for their favorite beach!

Exclusively for Photographers

Photography lovers should definitely ascent to the gorge above the beach of Tzortzi Gialos. There, you will have the opportunity to capture astonishing images of the Aegean!

Explore the Verdant Sceneries of Alonnisos

One of the most beautiful routes of Alonnisos includes the one that crosses Vathi Rema, rising from Megalo Horafi flowing into the beach of Megali Ammos. Another interesting route includes the one of the ravine of Kastanorema on the northeast part of Alonnisos. It rises from the area of Kastania widening through the rocky landscape. Although the terrain is rocky, leaves of oak and maple trees turn red during the autumn! Must visit is the Kalovoulos Mountain on the southern cape of Alonnisos. The highest point of the mountain elevates on a height of 325 meters. . The eastern mountainside is covered from pine forests, olive groves and bushes while the western side forms a steep vertical cliff rising above the sea.

Hire A Boat from the Harbour of Patitiri

Are you a fan of adventure? You can hire a boat from the harbor of Patitiri to explore the entire island of Alonnisos and the islands of the Marine Park of Alonnisos! Make sure you bring you snorkeling equipment with you! The Marine Park is an important breeding area for the Mediterranean Monk Seal, so certain areas are off limits to all boats.

Illuminations in the Nightfall

Walk to the end of the harbor of Patitiri until the small beach surrounded from yellowish rough cliffs. By nightfall, these cliffs are beautifully illuminated. Look towards the end of the bay; you will notice the two neighboring islands of Dio Aderfia (Two Brothers)!

It’s Sunset Time

The best sunset spot of Alonissos is the village of Palio Horio!

Observing like an Olympian God

The chapel of Agios Konstantinos is located on a beautiful ravine on the northwest coast of Alonnisos, approximately twelve kilometers from the harbour of Patitiri. There, you will have the opportunity to enjoy one of the most beautiful views towards the island of Skopelos.

Sailing Adventure around the Isle of Kyra Panagia

The largest uninhabited island of Northern Sporades is the isle of Kyra Panagia, else known as Pelagonisi. The island of Kyra Panagia is accessed only by boat. The bays of Agios Petros and Planitis are ideal for anchorage. One will have the opportunity to visit the abandoned monastery of Panagia dedicated to the Birth of Virgin Mary, which is located on the southeast part of the isle. Although it was one of the most important autonomous local monasteries, the monastery is now deserted and one can admire the old oil press and the windmill in the area. The Marine Park is an important breeding area for the Mediterranean Monk Seal, so certain areas are off limits to all boats.

Spring in Alonissos

In springtime, nature is at its best in Alonissos! As it is the flowering season, Alonissos becomes evergreen with imposing sceneries ideal for natural explorations! The yellow and pink blossoms of numerous sand spurries create a beautiful contrast all over the island. In April, all kinds of spring flowers bloom in the fields! You might even admire sceneries with red poppies! Purple flowers, yellow bushes and pink wild flowers adorn the entire island making it a colorful canvas!

The Traditional Celebration on the Uninhabited Isle of Kyra Panagia

On September 8, the religious celebration of the Birth of Virgin Mary is held on the Monastery of Kyra Panagia on the homonymous island. Monks from the Holy Mount of Athos arrive on the island by boats.

Photo Credits

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Note: All the images are copyrighted from their owners. Please see Terms & Conditions. You can find the original images at the following links:

Agios Dimitrios Beach: Rupert Brun by Flickr

Kokkinokastro beach: Alonnisos Official Website

Mediterranean Monk Seal: P.Dendrinos by Mom.gr

Palio Horio village: Shutterstock

Patitiri Village: Shutterstock

Rousoum Gialos village: Official Website of Alonnisos

Pristine beauty: Shutterstock

Spartines beach: Official Website of Alonnisos 

View of Palio Horio: Son of Groucho by Flickr

Votsi village: Jørgen Bjerring by Flickr

Tsortsi Gialos beach: Shutterstock

Wild Beauty: Dinos by Flickr