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A stunning island boasting crystal-clear waters and an unrivalled atmosphere has been crowned the most laid-back holiday destination in the world.

It's a turbulent world out there right now. And in such unceambiancemes, jetting off to a frantic, bustling, tourist-packed holiday hotspot may not be top of everybody's wish list. For those seeking somewhere with a slower pace and a serene ambience, Alonissos is the ultimate destination.

The Greek island is celebrated for its peaceful atmosphere, remarkably clear waters, and the opportunity to discover Europe's largest marine protected area. As the most secluded of the Northern Sporades islands, it delivers an authentic, unhurried experience well away from the heaving crowds of neighbouring Skiathos.

Travel specialists at Solmar Villas scrutinised more than 160 destinations worldwide to declare Alonissos the most relaxing spot for a thoroughly chilled summer getaway in 2026, highlighting its absence of crowds, breathtaking natural scenery, unhurried way of life and its wonderfully pleasant climate.

Melissa, atravel blogger, recently visited the island and was captivated by it. She wrote: "Alonissos is one of those places you feel. It ended up being my favourite 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€ for my Aperol Spritz, where in Mykonos, that's gonna cost double."

What to do in Alonissos?

Primarily, time on Alonissos is best enjoyed unwinding, lounging on the beach and dreamily gazing into the middle distance. However, should you feel inclined to be more active, there's plenty on offer. Including:

• National Marine Park: A 2,200 km/sq haven for biodiversity, home to the critically endangered Mediterranean monk seal (Monachus monachus).
• You can take boat tours to uninhabited islets like Kyra Panagia, which features a 12th-century monastery.
• World-class diving and snorkelling: Alonissos is home to the "Parthenon of Shipwrecks" at Peristera, Greece's first underwater museum, where divers can view thousands of ancient amphorae at 30m depth. The water is so clear that visibility can reach up to 50 metres.
• The charming old town of Chora: Perched on a hilltop with 360° views, the postcard-perfect Old Town was painstakingly restored after a 1965 earthquake and is filled with cobbled alleys and flowering balconies.
• Its pristine beaches: Agios Dimitrios, striking "horn-shaped" pebble beach with vivid turquoise water, Kokkinokastro, known for its dramatic red cliffs and deep blue sea, and Chrisi Milia: The island's only golden sandy beach, featuring shallow waters ideal for families.
• Eco-tourism and nature: The island is a magnet for hikers, with over 40 km of signposted trails that lead through dense pine forests and olive groves to secluded bays. Alonissos is also a pioneer in sustainability, being one of the first Greek islands to go plastic-bag-free.

The research revealed that Greece emerges as the premier destination for relaxation in 2026, with locations across the Greek islands and mainland leading the rankings. Indeed, 70% of the top 10 destinations are situated in Greece, underlining the nation's considerable appeal for travellers pursuing a more tranquil summer getaway this year.

There is no airport on Alonissos. To reach the island you must travel by ferry from the closest airports, which are on Skiathos (2.5 hrs by ferry) or at mainland Volos (3-4.5 hours by ferry). Alternatively, you can fly to Athens or Thessaloniki and continue via internal flight or ferry.