Thassos is 95 km to drive around, and nothing on it is far from anything else. You can have a completely different day every day without planning much. Here are the things we always tell guests about.
On the Water
Rent a small boat
You can rent a boat right from Golden Beach and take it along the coast. The east side of the island has dozens of small coves that are impossible to reach by road, and in most of them you will be completely alone. Head south toward Kinira and look for the small islet just offshore with a single house on it. Swim around it. It's one of the best spots on the island and most visitors never find it.
The submarine tour
Some months during the summer, there is a small tourist submarine operating from the island that takes you on a short tour of the seabed. It comes and goes depending on the season and availability. If it's running when you're here, we'll let you know. It's a fun experience, especially with kids.
Villages and Walks
Panagia village
About 10 minutes by car, up in the hills above Golden Beach. Stone houses, narrow cobbled lanes, streams of natural spring water running through the village, and an old fountain at the top that's worth walking up to. Late afternoon is the best time to visit, when the air is cooler and the light is soft. Have a coffee in the square and take your time.
Limenas old town
The island's capital and port. Walk through the back streets behind the harbour, where you'll find small shops selling traditional souvenirs, spoon sweets, dried figs, and Thassian honey (pine and thyme, both worth taking home). The old port area has a string of small bars with live music in the evenings and little ouzeri-style places right on the water. Good for a stroll even if you don't sit down.
Maries waterfalls
On the west side of the island, about 40 minutes from us. A short walk through the forest brings you to a series of small waterfalls with cold, clear pools you can swim in. Bring water shoes, the rocks are slippery. It's a beautiful break from the heat, especially in July and August when the coast is at its hottest.
History and Culture
Aliki archaeological site
Right behind Alikes beach on the south coast. Ancient marble quarries, early Christian basilica ruins, and a setting that puts most museums to shame. Free to walk through, takes about 15 to 20 minutes. Combine it with a swim at the beach.
Monastery of Archangel Michael
On the south coast, dramatically perched on a cliff above the sea. One of the most visited sites on the island and worth the trip. A note on dress code: this is an active monastery. Women should wear a long skirt or wrap a long pareo over swimwear, and cover their shoulders. Men should avoid shorts. They won't turn you away, but it's respectful and you'll feel more comfortable if you come prepared.
The Island Drive
Drive the full loop
The coastal road circles the entire island in about 95 km. You can do it in two hours without stopping, but the point is to stop. The best time to start is late afternoon so you catch the sunset on the western coast. Pull over at the lookout points along the way and watch the light change over the sea. You'll pass through mountain villages, pine forests, and on the southern stretch you'll see the part of the island that was damaged by wildfires a few years ago, a stark reminder next to all the green.
If you want suggestions for anything specific, or want to know what's available the week you're here, just ask at check-in. Boat rentals, excursion schedules, and local guides change by season, and we'd rather point you to what's actually running than list something that might not be.
