“The Green Emerald of the North Aegean”. Nothing more and nothing less is the name of the Greek island of Thassos in the Aegean Sea. And indeed, those who dare to travel to the island will be impressed by the variety of possibilities that can be discovered here on a trip. Beautiful coastlines combined with dense forests, archaeological centers and a typical touch of Greek culture. In recent years, Thassos has developed into an insider tip next to the well-known Greek islands such as Crete, Mykonos or Rhodes and yet has the advantage that the island is not nearly as touristy as the neighboring islands.
Discover Thassos – but first arrive
One reason why Thassos has not really been populated by German tourists in recent years is probably the fact that the island does not have its own airport. The island is approached by boat and surprises at first sight with its high mountains, which stretch over the entire island, which, by the way, has a diameter of about 24 kilometers. Just because German tourists have tended to stay away here so far, however, one should not expect that there is no infrastructure. On the contrary, the roads are very well developed and hotels are spread all over the island. On the other hand, there are no classic strongholds here, where the hotel barracks are lined up. Things are a little quieter on the Emerald Isle, and that’s what most guests appreciate.
Limenas – The capital of Thassos
Limenas, on the other hand, is also the center of the island. People already settled here in ancient times and so most of the hotels are spread over the city. However, there are also many accommodations in different price ranges to be found in other parts of the island. Particularly recommended and authentic are stone houses, which are rented out by locals in the season and can otherwise be found everywhere on the island.
So there is no shortage of travel options on Thassos, nor of infrastructure nor of accommodation. In recent years, tourism has become more important here and yet the island has been able to retain its charm by not arbitrarily sacrificing parts of the wonderful nature for tourism. On the contrary, here you live in harmony with the tourist buildings and find ways to preserve nature.
Beach, sun and nature on the Greek island of Thassos
Since the island has a particularly terrible vegetation, holidaymakers on the island can also enjoy all the dishes from Greek cuisine. In the city’s restaurants and taverns, classics such as olives and sheep’s cheese naturally play a special role, and seafood dishes are also recommended, which are usually actually caught on site. The majority of the restaurants can be found in the capital, but classic taverns with fragmentarily translated menus can be found all over Thassos.
In all parts of the island there are also various natural beauties. Of course, the beaches should be mentioned first. They all have the finest turquoise water to offer and the sand quality of the beaches on Thassos is also worth mentioning.
Skala Rachoni Beach
A special insider tip is the Skala Rachoni Beach. The long beach at the end of the village of the same name is known for its tranquility and is also worth the small trip if you have your own accommodation at the other end of the island. At Astrida Beach there are usually only a few vacationers – but care directly from the locals. On a holiday on the island, however, each of the beaches should get the attention of a visit.
Due to the different vegetation on Thassos, you are also invited to one or the other visit. Hiking in the mountains is a great option away from the beach holiday. After 1200 meters of altitude up Mount Ipsario, I get a unique view of the island. If you like hiking, you can also take a look at the mountain village of Kastros, where the inhabitants still live very primitively. One of the clear natural treasures is also the dragon’s cave. This is where the first settlers of Thassos are said to have found refuge after arriving on the island.
Archaeological treasures on Thassos
The settlement of Thassos dates back many centuries, as can be seen in one or the other place in the capital. Ruins from various eras can be found on Thassos, some of which date back to the great heyday of the Greek Empire. Friends of architecture should also pay special attention to a monastery on the island dedicated to the Archangel Michael. The Archangelou Monastery is one of the cultural highlights of the island and can be explored at fixed times.
So Thassos has a lot to offer despite its modest size. The varied possibilities on the northernmost island of Greece and the fact that the island is not yet completely developed by tourism are just a few arguments for a trip.
The most important questions about Thassos
How to get to Thassos?
Thassos does not have its own airport. You land in Kavala by plane. After a few minutes you will reach the ferry port. The crossing to Thassos takes about 40 minutes.
You can also find information on http://www.ferries-greece.com
How tall is Thassos?
The total area of Thassos is 380.1 km²
Where is Thassos?
Located in the Aegean Sea, Thassos is the northernmost Greek island. It is just under seven kilometres from Kavala, the point of arrival by plane from Germany.
