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National Marine Park of the Sporades

By , About.com Guide

Greek sea turtle

Greek sea turtle

Katelios Group; used by permission

Ecotourist? :

Gently visiting this unique Greek marine park may be just the thing for you. The chance of seeing rare monarch seals, sea birds and sea turtles is excellent.

Go if you can - and talk about it:

The National Marine Park consists of a handful of small, remote islands and the waters around them. These are Alonissos itself, Kyra Panayia, Gioura Psathoura, Piperi, and Skantzoura. Of these, access to Piperi is forbidden; even boats must keep their distance. Gioura and Psathoura allow visitors. Ironically, under certain permits, even hunting is permitted on Gioura.

The best base for a visit to the Marine Park is the island of Alonissos. From there, you can arrange for yacht tours into the permitted areas of the marine park itself.

Recent budget cuts have reduced or eliminated many of the patrols for this area, reducing its value as a truly protected space. If you go, please let the local hotel keepers and taverna owners know that the presence of the park is what led you to their door. Otherwise, this marvelous refuge and resource may disappear under an indifferent bureaucracy.

Want to volunteer? There may be opportunities available. Visit the Official Website: National Marine Park of Alonissos

Photo Gallery of the Marine Park

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