Thassos (North Aegean Islands, Greece)

Thassos is part of the North-Eastern Islands and is located on the most northern part of the group, near the island of Samothraki, and 10 kilometres south-east of Kavala (on the mainland). Its shape is almost circular and its scenery has, nevertheless, some awesome mountain vistas and sparkling beaches.

Thassos used to be called the "emerald of the Aegean" because of its large and verdant pine forest and olive grooves; but a huge part of this verdant lungs have been burnt between 1981 and 1993. Only the north-eastern quadrant of the island and the area around Astris and Alyki escaped the fires.

Thassos is, since a long time, a popular resort island for northern Greeks, people from neighbouring countries and for Germans and British. For that reason the island is far from unspoiled, but many of its beaches are still very beautiful and attractive and a few villages are still picturesque and authentic.

The plethora of archaeological sites, the opportunities for all kinds of excursions transform Thassos into a great place to enjoy relaxing or busy holidays.

LIMENARIA, situated 30 mls away on the opposite side of the island, is the second biggest town and boasts an attractive promenade lined with small restaurants, shops and bars.

SKALA PRINOS is a small resort that has built up around the ferry service that operates from its harbour directly to Kavala. It also has a traditional boatyard where fishing boats are still made and repaired using the old, traditional methods.

Nearby PEFKARI and POTOS are former fishing villages now given over to tourism.

SKALA POTAMIAS, 9 mls S of Limenas, offers little more than a handful of simple seafront eateries and a long, sandy beach.

Suitable for those seeking a quiet island holiday and wishing to experience a little local colour, unspoilt by over-development. Own transport an advantage. The island does change in July and Aug as it becomes fuller with tourists, but the numbers don't drown the Greek culture and atmosphere. May is a particularly scenic time to visit, as many wild flowers come into bloom.

The accommodation here is mainly small, comfortable hotels, pensions and private rooms, a good few without a pool or many facilities (especially in Limenas); a growing number of apartments, most with pools. Only a couple of upmarket hotels, no luxury or 5-star properties.