10 things to do in Samothraki

Although Samothraki is not your typical Greek island, it offers various activities and experiences. Here are 10 things to help you discover what makes this place special. Some activities are suitable for everybody, while others (such as climbing the highest peak or hiking to the more remote waterfalls and vathres) require proper equipment and good physical fitness.

1. Visit the Sanctuary of the Great Gods

Start with the beginning! Dive into the ancient history of the island by visiting the Sanctuary of the Great Gods and the small Archaeological Museum of Paleopolis. A replica of the statue of the goddess Niki greets you in front. Strolling through old olive trees, colorful oleanders and thousand-year-old ruins, you will immerse yourself in stories and legends of yore, from the days when the island, known for its initiation mysteries, was one of the famous religious centers of the ancient world.

2. Take a dip in the vathres

Unlike other Greek islands, Samothraki is not famous for its beaches, but for the pools carved in stone by the tens of rivers that flow from the mountain. These natural pools are called vathres. The most beautiful, but also more difficult to access, are located high up, around 700-800 m, close to the springs. However, there are also enough vathres that can be reached easily even by those with little hiking experience. Walk through the centuries-old plane tree forests and discover the pools of crystal clear water, of an implausible green color. Swimwear is optional - nudism is widely practiced in Samothraki.

3. Wander the narrow streets of Chora

Chora is the capital of the island. Hidden between the mountain peaks, at an altitude of 200-300 m, it will delight you with its picturesque houses with tiled roofs that seem to huddle into each other, neatly arranged on the slopes. Get lost in the maze of alleys, discover charming corners and recharge at the cafes!

4. Discover the legend of Panagia Krimniotissa

Panagia Krimniotissa is among the most beloved little churches in Samothraki. To get there, you need to climb a road of about 2 kilometers. The road is not the best and some patience is required. Upon arriving you will be rewarded by the spectacular scenery unfolding to your right - cliffs covered with trees and shrubs, the winding road from the northwest, the beach of Pachia Ammos and the Turkish island of Gokceada (formerly the Greek Imvros) in the distance. According to legend, an icon found by the islanders appeared several times on the steep rock, until they understood that the Virgin wanted a church to be built there.

5. Taste the local food and drinks

What better way to discover a destination than by trying its gastronomy? The most typical food in Samothraki is goat meat, cooked in various ways. Two must-try places are Taverna Karydies in Ano Meria (for baked goat meat) and Taverna O Vrachos in Profitis Ilias (for goat on a spit). Fish and seafood taverns exist of course because, after all, you are on an island. Among them are Taverna O Psaras near Therma Beach and Taverna To Akrogiali in Lakkoma. Don't miss the island's craft beer, Fonias Pale Ale, from the Samothraki Microbrewery or the local brandy (tsipouro). If you want to know more, check out Taverns, bars and cafes in Samothraki.

6. Sunbathe on a black beach

Kipos ("The Garden") is one of the most special beaches in Samothraki. It is a wild and undeveloped beach with stones and black pebbles, located at the end of the eastern coastal road. It stretches for more than a kilometer at the foot of the barren and dark mountain that guards it menacingly. Fans of this beach say that the feeling of freedom it gives you is unmatched. Bring an umbrella to protect yourself from the scorching sun or take shelter by the rocks at the ends of the beach. The island of Gokceada (Imvros) in the distance offers a nice view, especially at sunset.

7. Unwind at Pachia Ammos Beach

If you yearn for a more touristy experience, look for Pachia Ammos Beach, at the end of the south road. It has clear water, coarse sand (its very name means "coarse sand") and pebbles. There are sunbeds, umbrellas, two beach bars and two taverns. A few swims, a kayak ride, a snack, a drink and ... Poof! The day is gone before you know it.

8. Take a boat ride

Boat trips around the island are only available in July and August and start from the port of Therma. If you don't happen to be in Samothraki during that period, hop on Nikolas' boat, which you can find on Pachia Ammos Beach. It's not a full tour, but you get to experience the most remote places in the south: Vatos Beach, Kremastos waterfall and the strange geological formations Tis Grias ta Pania ("Old Lady's Clothes").

9. Hunt the sunset

The island of Samothraki offers spectacular sunsets. A traditional dinner at Taverna Paradeisos in Profitis Ilias, relaxing on the beaches of Makrylies-Lakkoma and the beaches of the northwest, or enjoying a drink in Kamariotissa can turn into a spectacle of colors as the sun sets. How many shades of red and orange can you catch in your photos?

10. Climb the island's highest peak

How about admiring the island from the third-highest peak in the Aegean? The Feggari (meaning "Moon") peak of Mount Saos is a little over 1600 m high. To conquer it will require a 10-11 hour round trip hike, good physical condition and adequate equipment.