Aliki lies on the south-east coast of Thassos like a hidden jewel. Two coves like twins, white beaches, crystal-clear water… and behind it all, thousands of years of stories.
Aliki lies on a narrow strip of land joining the island to a small peninsula. The name “Aliki” comes from the Greek word “alyki” (αλυκή), meaning a salt lake or salt pans – a reminder of salt production long ago. That soon gave way to a far more valuable material – marble.
Today Aliki is not just an archaeological site but also a popular tourist destination. It combines discovering history with relaxing by the turquoise sea – a place where the past blends harmoniously with the present.
Two coves, beaches and ancient excavations
The ruins of a basilica and temples, and a marble quarry
Tavernas right in the coves
The history goes back a long way, to the 7th century BC. Even then a temple stood here, which in early Christian times was replaced by a basilica built on the rock above the sea. Above all, though, this enchanting place became famous for its high-quality white marble.
On the headland jutting out into the sea there was a marble quarry, which was in use until the 7th century AD. The local marble, famous for its snow-white colour and high quality, was a sought-after building and sculpting material throughout the ancient Mediterranean. You will find more about it in the article Thassos marble.
A marked path takes you round the ruins of the temples and the basilica, the ancient marble quarry and the natural pools. Comfortable, ideally sturdy shoes are a must.
In antiquity, by the eastern bay, there was a sanctuary of protective deities, patrons of sailors and ships. A marble slab was found here with wishes of good luck for various ships that carried marble from the island.
Today visitors can admire the remains of this rich history. Excavations at the end of the 19th century uncovered the remains of two temples from the 7th and 6th centuries BC in the eastern bay. There are also two wells in the rock, and cleaning them out brought valuable archaeological finds. A walk around the peninsula is a journey through time.
It is not so hot yet. There is no shade on the peninsula, so take plenty to drink and protect yourself from the sun.
Two beaches with fine sand and crystal-clear water invite you to rest and relax. In the local tavernas you can enjoy traditional Greek specialities and fresh fish.
The ideal day at Aliki? A walk round the peninsula in the morning, then lunch at a taverna right in the cove, and in the afternoon peace, turquoise water and views you will never forget.
Right in the cove, with service on the beach too. After a walk round the sun-baked peninsula, their draught beer in a frozen glass goes down a treat.
For the taverna or sunbeds – and do not forget your swimwear, the turquoise sea is tempting.
The sun on the peninsula is strong and there is little shade. With these you will be fine:
Drinks – so you can cope with the heat.
A camera – you will want to remember those views.
A hat, sunglasses and sun cream – protection from the strong sun.
Swimwear and swimming gear – the turquoise sea is tempting.
Comfortable, ideally sturdy shoes – if you plan to walk round the peninsula.
Cash or a card – for the taverna or sunbeds.
The closest place is Astris – again the Aeolis and Aeria resorts. Towards Paradise Beach, the Thassos Grand hotel lies in a cove in the middle of nowhere, very close to Aliki. It really is just a hotel and there is nothing within walking distance – but for lovers of peace and nature it can be a good choice.
The family hotel Astris Sun is also a good base for the monastery and for Aliki – pleasant, with simpler facilities but hardly any complaints. Ideal for lovers of nature and quiet surroundings without crowds of tourists.
I warmly recommend a car here. You will have a great base for all the places on the most beautiful side of the island, whether Aliki and the Monastery of the Archangel Michael or, in the other direction, Paradise Beach and Panagia.
On the south-east coast of the island of Thassos, on a narrow strip of land joining the island to a small peninsula.
It comes from the Greek word alyki – a salt lake or salt pans, a reminder of salt production long ago.
The ruins of an early Christian basilica, the remains of two temples from the 7th and 6th centuries BC, an ancient marble quarry and natural pools.
Yes, both coves have beaches with fine sand and crystal-clear water, and the tavernas also offer sunbeds.
In the morning, when it is not yet so hot – there is little shade on the peninsula. Then relax on the beach in the afternoon.
Let yourself be enchanted by the history and beauty of Aliki, a place where past and present come together to create an unforgettable atmosphere.
