Thassos, Greece

The package tour companies have only recently started to invade Greece's most northerly island, the emerald Macedonian isle of Thassos, close to the mainland port of Kavala in the Aegean Sea. Those seeking a true Greek Island getaway can still find some traditional tavernas, interesting archaeological sites, picturesque villages and beautiful sandy beaches washed by crystal clear water. The locals are fast learning to cash in on the tourist trade, however, and resort hotels are springing up as ferries disgorge the crowds during the height of the summer season.



Historically Thassos is one of the richest of the Greek islands. It was inhabited as far back as 2000 BC, home to the Thracians up until the Phoenicians, drawn by the wonderful climate, rich pine woods and white marble, colonised it in 1500 BC. The Greeks arrived about 700 years later, staging a peaceful takeover, and the Romans followed. All left their legacy in the form of archaeological sites, which today provide plenty of interesting excursions for visitors.



The capital and main port is the city of Limenas, which is not particularly inviting, but has a 
pretty old harbour sporting colourful fishing boats and traditional tavernas. Within easy reach of Limenas are the lovely little villages of Panagia and Potamia, overlooking the sandy Golden Beach and the long, inviting crescent of Skala Potamias. A little further away is the quieter village of Kinira with its pebbled beach, and the pinewood-ringed Paradise Beach, frequented by nudists. On the south coast, at Aliki, lies a peninsula forming two magnificent bays, also the site of ancient marble quarries.



The most popular tourist resorts hug the south-western coast, near the town of Limenaria, but further along the west coast are a series of quaint fishing villages, interspersed with lovely beaches and coves. Inland, old mountain settlements charm with narrow cobbled streets and cafes on the village square.
Those tired of the more well-worn Greek destinations will find Thassos refreshing.

Resorts See our separate guides to the following Thassos holiday resorts: Golden Beach Attractions Museum Theologos The history of Thassos is uncovered at the Museum Theologos, set in an old mansion that was the home of the mountain village's former mayor, Mr Chatzigeorgiou. The mayor played an essential role in the revolution against the Turks that took place on the island in 1821. Exhibits include displays of olive presses, flour mills, tools, looms and chests from the 18th century, as well as some wonderful pictures. The museum is only one interesting aspect of this fascinating old town, situated up in the mountains. It is worth visiting just to stroll through the picturesque streets and stumble over all the evidence of antiquity. Theologos used to be the most important village on the island and was both the poiltical and economic centre of Thassos, which is why the museum is situated here. Theologos was declared a cultural capital by the Greek government in 1979, which means that construction or alteration to existing buildings is limited to preserve the authentic old architecture. The village has also preserved many folk traditions and still produces its own olives, vegetables, alcohol and lamb, so that when you have a meal at the local taverna you will almost certainly be eating local produce. Prinos Streetmarket Located on the northwest coast of Thassos is the major port town of Skala Prinos. This town is the second ferry port of Thassos after that of Thassos Town. Each Monday morning, the Prinos Streetmarket is a great attraction for Thassos visitors. The market offers a selection of fresh fruit and vegetables, as well as a good assortment of nuts. Leather goods and hardware are also available from the market, as well as shoes, clothes and household accessories. As with most markets of this kind there are seldom changing rooms to use for trying on clothes so you have to try on what you can at the stall, over your clothes, or try your best to guess your size. The market is small enough to feel quaint and friendly but large enough to have a good bustle and selection of goods. There is a café next to the market place offering much welcomed refreshments for weary shoppers. Skala Prinos also has some really lovely beaches - shallow, clear, calm waters and pretty white, sandy beaches - which are perfect for children and have great views of the mainland. It is wonderful to pop to one of the beaches after a quick exploration of the market for a refreshing swim. Thassos Beaches The island of Thassos has a number of excellent beaches to relax and have fun on, and although the more popular ones usually have all the required tourist amenities the beaches tend to have retained their natural loveliness and have not been ruined by crowds or infrastructure. The island is lush and there is often vegetation growing right down to the beach. Tripiti is known for its natural bathtub and a cave leading to the ocean; it is a big beach, quite far from the main town, and boasts rich marine life in its waters. Livadi is popular with campers and backpackers and is a protected cove. Makriammos is a beautiful, long, sandy beach and is a favorite for many - it is also home to some great mussels! Pefkari has bars, taverns and a small kiosk, and watersports include banana boat rides, jet-skiing and paragliding. The nudist beach of Paradise is one of the most beautiful on the island, as the name suggests. It is not exclusively a nudist beach but nudity is tolerated. The western beaches of the island are the calmest and Scala Potamia and Golden Beach are two of the best for small kids as they are sandy beaches, frequented by families, which have shallow and calm waters.