Thassos, the twelfth largest Greek island, lies in the Thracian Sea, just 8 kilometres from the mainland. Its area of 380 km² offers a surprisingly varied landscape, from dramatic mountains to fertile lowlands and picturesque bays.
The island has an elliptical, almost regularly round shape, 22 km across from west to east and 26 km from north to south. Between the island and the headland of Keramoti bay lies the islet of Thasopoula, or little Thassos, which acts as a breakwater protecting the boats on the route to the mainland.
380 km²
Just 8 km
Ipsarion, 1,204 m above sea level
22 km (W–E) and 26 km (N–S)
The island is dominated by the Ipsarion mountains, whose highest peak rises to 1,204 metres above sea level. The mountain area is a paradise for hikers and nature lovers, who can admire rare species of plants and animals here.
Ipsarion forms a natural barrier that affects the local microclimate and creates varied conditions for vegetation. You will find out how to climb to the summit in the article Mount Ipsarion, the highest mountain.
On foot from the village of Potamia, or in a 4×4 with an off-road permit – an ordinary hire car is not allowed on dirt roads.
From the summit you can see the whole island and the Greek mainland.
Thassos is famous for its beautiful beaches, which line almost the entire coast. Golden sand, crystal-clear water and a gentle slope into the sea invite you to swim and try water sports. Among the best known are Golden Beach, Paradise Beach, Marble Beach and Aliki Beach.
The coastline is indented, with many bays, headlands and rocky cliffs that create picturesque scenery. You will find tips in the article The most beautiful beaches on Thassos.
It is reached by a dirt road, which only vehicles with an off-road permit may use – an ordinary hire car is not allowed there.
Thassos is known for its rich marble deposits, which have been quarried here since antiquity. The white colour of Thassos marble was prized throughout the ancient world and is still prized today.
The island is also home to several caves, such as the Dragon’s Cave, a popular destination for visitors.
You can explore the abandoned ancient marble quarry on the Aliki peninsula.
Although Thassos is a relatively small island, it has several rivers and streams that rise in the Ipsarion mountains and flow down to the sea. The largest river is the Prinos, which flows through the fertile lowland in the west of the island.
Thassos also has the artificial Lake Maries, which serves as a source of drinking water and for irrigation – a little beyond it you will find lagoons with waterfalls.
The route includes unpaved sections – an ordinary hire car is not allowed there, only vehicles with an off-road permit.
The article Resorts on Thassos will help you decide where to stay on Thassos.
It has an area of 380 km² and is the twelfth largest Greek island.
Just 8 kilometres.
Ipsarion, 1,204 m above sea level.
Yes, the artificial Lake Maries, which serves as a source of drinking water.
It has rich deposits of white marble, which has been quarried here since antiquity.
Whether you long to relax on the beach, for adventure in the mountains or to explore historical sights, Thassos will grant all your wishes.
