Alonissos, a hidden gem in Greece's Northern Sporades, has been crowned the world's most relaxing destination for 2026 by Solmar Villas. This stunning island offers pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a blissfully slow pace of life, far from the tourist crowds.
Why Alonissos Is the Ultimate Relaxation Spot
With the world feeling increasingly chaotic, many travelers seek unhurried and peaceful escapes. Alonissos provides an authentic, laid-back retreat, being the most secluded of the Northern Sporades islands. It is home to Europe's largest marine protected area and boasts a serene atmosphere that sets it apart from bustling neighbors like Skiathos.
Travel specialists at Solmar Villas analyzed over 160 destinations worldwide to declare Alonissos the most relaxing spot for a chilled-out summer getaway in 2026. The island's unspoiled natural beauty, unhurried way of life, sparse crowds, and pleasant climate were key factors in its top ranking.
Travel Blogger's Experience
Melissa, a travel blogger, recently explored the island and was captivated by its charm. She shared: "Alonissos is one of those places you feel. It ended up being my favorite of the three islands I visited. It's quiet, a little wild, totally underrated. Out of all the Sporades islands, it's the furthest out, which probably explains why it's still kind of a hidden gem. It's way less touristic and definitely more laid back than islands like Mykonos. No cruise ship crowds, no overpriced cocktails. I paid on average 9 euros for my Aperol Spritz, where in Mykonos, that's going to cost double."
Things to Do in Alonissos
Time on Alonissos is ideally spent unwinding on the beach and peacefully staring into the distance. However, for those who seek more active pursuits, the island offers plenty:
- National Marine Park: A 2,200 km sq haven for biodiversity, home to the critically endangered Mediterranean monk seal.
- Boat Tours: Explore uninhabited islets like Kyra Panagia, featuring a 12th-century monastery.
- Diving and Snorkeling: The "Parthenon of Shipwrecks" at Peristera is Greece's first underwater museum, with thousands of ancient amphorae at 30 meters depth and visibility up to 50 meters.
- Chora Old Town: Perched on a hilltop with 360-degree views, restored after a 1965 earthquake, with cobbled alleys and flowering balconies.
- Pristine Beaches: Agios Dimitrios (horn-shaped pebble beach with turquoise water), Kokkinokastro (red cliffs and deep blue sea), and Chrisi Milia (golden sandy beach, ideal for families).
- Eco-Tourism: Over 40 km of signposted trails through pine forests and olive groves. Alonissos is a pioneer in sustainability, being one of the first Greek islands to go plastic-bag-free.
Greece Tops Relaxation Destinations
The research revealed that Greece is the top country for relaxation in 2026, with 70% of the top 10 destinations located in Greece. This underscores the nation's appeal for travelers seeking a tranquil summer break.
How to Get to Alonissos
There is no airport on Alonissos. Visitors must take a ferry from the closest airports on Skiathos (2.5 hours by ferry) or mainland Volos (3-4.5 hours by ferry). Alternatively, fly to Athens or Thessaloniki and continue via domestic flight or ferry. Direct flights from Birmingham to Athens are primarily operated by Jet2, with twice-weekly services. Other airlines offering indirect flights include Ryanair, Aegean Airlines, easyJet, and KLM.
