The Northern Sporades comprise the islands of Alonissos, Skiathos and Skopelos and are located on the eastern side of the Greek mainland and the western side of the Aegean Sea near to the island of Evia.  The islands are very different in size and population.  The island of Skyros was associated once with the Sporades islands but various changes now have Skyros administratively linked with the island of Evia.

Alonissos has an area of around 65 sq. km. and a population of around 2,700 based on the 2001 census.  There are three main areas of population around the port of Patitiri, the harbour of Votsi and in the Old Village which was the original capital of the island.  Tourism is playing a more important role in the lives of the islanders but many still make a living from raising goats, market gardening and fishing.

The beaches are mainly to be found on the south and east of the island and all the major beaches are accessible by tarmac road  Beaches are mainly stone and shingle with the exception of Chryssi Milia which is sandy.  Many of the beaches have tavernas but there are many secluded and isolated beaches, many of which are only accessible by boat.  The interior of the island has a mountainous centre but is clothed in pine and olive trees.  The island is a haven for walkers and there are 14 marked walking paths around the island as well as two very good walking guides written by Chris Browne and Bente Keller which have a variety of different walks.

During the winter there are ferry, high speed Flying Dolphin and Flying Catamaran services between Alonissos and the mainland port of Volos.  During the summer months there are additional services to Agios Konstantinos on the mainland, Thessaloniki and Kymi on Evia and the island of Skyros.