Samothrace is a small island with wild natural beauty, mountains, lush vegetation and a lot of rivers. It is located in the northeastern part of Greece. It is not a typical Greek island with sandy beaches and lots of tourists, but more like an alternative tourist destination. It is perfect for a quiet vacation away from the crowds or a day trip.
The wonderful landscape of the island combines mountainous terrain, fresh springs and the bluest seas. Tourists often come to Samothrace to hike and camp, trying to visit all the natural wonders of the island.
Characteristic:
Samothrace, Greek island in the northern Aegean Sea off the Thracian coast. It forms a dímos (municipality) in the East Macedonia and Thrace. The island is geologically complex, consisting chiefly of ancient granites, clayey deposits, and softer volcanic materials. Hot springs are located near the north coast.
The Most Beautiful Beaches On Samothrace:
Some of the most beautiful and famous beaches are Kipos Beach and Vatos Beach (which are unique for their beautiful blue-grey pebbles) and Limnidi. Pachia Ammos its great deserted sandy beach with small cheap snack bar, free parking, sunbeds.
- Pachia Ammos Beach
- Vatos Beach
- Kipos beach
- Limnidi Beach
Chora of Samothrace:
Samothraki town, known as Chora, displays an atmospheric mix of old and new. The narrow streets and traditional stone houses will amaze you! Visit the folklore museum to learn more about the island’s rich history and culture.
The fortress, situated on a 250-meter peak, offers breathtaking views of the island and is a popular place to watch the sunset. The Church of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary is another noteworthy attraction, famous for its magnificent architecture. The port of Samothraki, provides a place to relax and soak up the local atmosphere. The charming cafes, restaurants and shops are popular with locals and tourists alike.
What is worth seeing on the island ?
Gria Vathra Waterfall
Gria Vathra is one of the amazing places in Samothrace. It is definitely worth experiencing the nature, the amazing views and the relaxation and activity. Rocks, waterfall, wonderful vegetation and the lake as a natural jacuzzi!
The road to this place is a fascinating, exotic trip. The total number of Gria gorges, from large to very small, is estimated at about 62. The route is amazing and very stimulating. If you like active wild outdoor adventures (walking, climbing, swimming) this trip is for you!
Fonias Gorge
The Fonias Gorge is the most popular gorge of Samothrace. The entrance is in “Karya”, at an altitude of 700 m above sea level and can be reached from Koufouklio or from a path that starts in Varades, which is uphill and difficult.
At the mouth of the river on the northern coast, the medieval tower of the same name dominates, also known as Cape Fonias (Cape of the Assassin). Initially, the gorge has nice water slides and large granite gorges (vatras are natural pools formed by waterfalls), it is open with lush vegetation, and the hiking trail to Gria Vathra, is easy and takes only half an hour, along the stream.
Sanctuary of the Great Gods
The sanctuary is located on the northern coast of the island, west of the ancient city. The earliest religious activity in this area dates back to the 7th century BC. The sanctuary was used for worship and the performance of mysteries in honor of the Great Gods, which was a religious event of great importance in Greek and Roman antiquity. Excavations have been ongoing here since 1938.
Holy Mary Krimniotissa (Panagia Krimniotissa)
The church of Panagia Krimniotissa is located on a high cliff in Pahia Ammos. The church is impressive both because of its location, because it seems to float in the air and offers a magnificent view of the northern Aegean Sea, and because of its history.
Castelo Gattilusi (Gattilusi Castle)
The ruins of a Byzantine castle on the edge of a cliff, a remnant of the rule of the Genoese Gattilusi family (1430 AD), are the most important attraction of Chora. The place is extremely beautiful, because the whole area is covered with dense deciduous forests.
The fortifications were probably built at the end of the 10th century AD. The view from the castle is wonderful. You can see the whole city of Chora, to the north the beach and the sea near Paleopolis, and to the west the sea in front of Kamariotissa.
