THASOS

The ‘Emerald of the Aegean’, as it is often called, Thasos is Greece’s northernmost island, situated in the northern Aegean just south of Kavala. Administratively, the island belongs to the Region of Eastern Macedonia and Thrace. Thasos is known for its natural beauty and rich vegetation, boasting lush green valleys, olive groves and pine forests. The island also has a rich historical and cultural heritage that is prominently on display in its museums. The Archaeological Museum of Thasos, located in the main settlement of Limenas, is one of Northern Greece’s most important museums and a must-see for visitors. Nearby, you can visit the Ancient Theatre of Thasos, while the trinity of archaeological sites to see is rounded out by the island’s Ancient Agora.

Limenas, the island’s aforementioned main settlement, is also its main harbor and home to many prominent monuments. However, Thasos also boasts picturesque mountain villages replete with natural beauty, lush vegetation and striking traditional architecture. Panagia, a listed traditional settlement of characteristic whitewashed houses with wooden balconies, is perhaps the most popular village on Thasos, but visitors are encouraged to visit as many villages as they can. Two other prominent villages are Maries and Theologos.

The island’s riviera is also exceptionally popular, its golden beaches and lush green vegetation coming together to form truly beautiful landscapes. Thasos also boasts one of the most photographed seaside destinations in Greece: Giola, a natural lagoon surrounded by rocks that is sure to impress visitors. It is often called ‘Aphrodite’s Tear’, and according to mythology, Zeus created it as a swimming pool for one of his mistresses. The island also offers numerous hiking trails and paths with striking scenery.

Cuisine

The rich local olive groves play a major role in Thasos’ culinary culture. In fact, an Olive Oil Museum was established on Thasos to spotlight the importance of the local olives and the exceptional extra virgin olive oil they produce. The island’s Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) Throumba olives are renowned for their quality and exceptional flavour. Thasos also produces excellent pine and polyfloral honeys. Fish and seafood also play a prominent role in the local cuisine, as do dishes based on locally sourced meats. Stuffed zucchini blossoms, pitarakia (the local fritters), ‘gouna’ mackerel, local feta cooked with oil and tomato in clay vessels, and spoon sweets are just some of the local dishes and recipes worth tasting.

How to get there

Thasos is an island in the Northern Aegean and belongs administratively to the Region of Eastern Macedonia and Thrace. Visitors can access the island via flight to Kavala and ferry from there, with voyages lasting about one and a half hours. The island is also accessible by 40-minute ferry from Keramoti.