Thassos – the Green Island of northern Greece

Thassos is the northernmost island in the Aegean and the closest Greek island to Bulgaria. It’s called the Green Island for the dense pine forests that run almost down to the sea. The island covers about 390 sq km with a coastline of about 100 km, and its highest peak, Ypsario, reaches 1,203 m. Thassos is known for white marble, honey, olive oil and beaches with crystal-clear water.

What to see

• Limenas (Thassos Town) – the capital and port. Here are the ancient agora, the ancient theatre in the pine forest, and a path up to the acropolis with sanctuaries of Apollo and Athena and views over the sea.
• Panagia and Potamia – mountain villages with stone houses, fountains and tavernas. The trail up Mount Ypsario starts from Potamia.
• Aliki – a small peninsula with an ancient marble quarry, the ruins of a temple and early Christian basilicas, and two lovely coves.
• The Archangel Michael Monastery – perched on a cliff above the sea, with a famous view of Mount Athos on a clear day.
• Giola – a natural pool carved into the rocks near Astris, a popular spot for jumping into the water.
• Theologos – the island’s old capital, with traditional houses and roast lamb.

Beaches

• Golden Beach (Chrysi Ammoudia) – a long beach of fine sand beneath the mountain.
• Paradise Beach – turquoise water and pines.
• Makryammos – close to Limenas.
• Skala Prinos, Skala Rachoni, Limenaria and Potos – on the west coast, with the best sunsets.

Getting there

By car – from Sofia via Kulata and Serres to Keramoti (about 360 km, 5 h), then the ferry to Limenas (about 40 minutes, hourly in summer). There’s also a Kavala–Skala Prinos ferry (about 1 h 15 min). Another route goes via the Ilinden–Exochi border and Drama.

On the island – most people drive or ride a scooter. Regular buses run along the coast road.

Sample 3-day plan

1. Kavala on the way – a stroll through the old Panagia quarter (see Kavala). Ferry from Keramoti, check in, dinner at a taverna.
2. Round the island – Panagia, Golden Beach, Aliki, the Archangel Michael Monastery and sunset on the west coast.
3. Limenas – the ancient theatre and agora, beach and lunch. Afternoon ferry back.

When to visit

June–September for the beach, with July and August busiest. Around 6 September (a Bulgarian public holiday) the island fills with Bulgarian visitors, so book early. May and October are quiet and green.

Practical tips

• Buy Thassos honey and olive oil straight from the producers.
• Ferries fill up in August. Get to the port at least an hour early.
• Take care on unpaved mountain roads.