


On the north eastern side of Greece in the Region of Eastern Macedonia and Thrace lies the Regional Unit of Kavala which also includes the island of Thassos. Beaches with clear blue waters, forests, fertile plains, significant archaeological sites, mountain villages and fishing villages, compose an attractive canvas of contrasts that invites you to explore it.
Through a photographic journey within the seasons you will behold the beauties, the history and the culture of the Kavala Regional Unit.
The Theater - Archeaological Site of Philippi (Ministry of Culture. Archive of the Ephorate of Antiquities of Kavala).
“The copyright of the depicted antiquity (photo 2) belongs to the Ephorate of Antiquities of Kavala and the Ministry of Culture”, “Hellenic Republic, Ministry of Culture, General Directorate of Antiquities and Cultural Heritage, Ephorate of Antiquities of Kavala”.
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Saint Lydia’s of Philippi holy baptistery.
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The imposing statue of Muhammad Ali in the square of Old Town of Kavala.
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The charming city of Kavala. 6.
Kavala’s harbour.
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It is a place that embodies the unique beauties of Greece and that through nature, its monuments, its religious pilgrimages, its gastronomy and its people, narrates its own distinct story. 1.
The incomparable beauty of the beaches of Kavala.
Sailing in the oldest coastal town of Northern Greece, Kavala.
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The General Hospital of Kavala.
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The bust of the hero of the 1821 Greek Revolution Ilarion Karatzoglou, in front of the building of the Regional Unit of Kavala. 4.
The little port at the district of the old slaughter houses, with the taverns and the small cafeterias, away from the noisy town.
At the top of the Old Town stands the imposing Fortress, a trademark of the city of Kavala, with an unparalleled view of the port. The “lighthouse district” is one of the most beautiful areas of Panagia and an ideal view point to enjoy the sea and the sunset. The stairs below the Lighthouse reach the port of Apostolos Pavlos.
It was built in 1906 by the German Baron Adolf Wix as a miniature Hungarian tower, and was used as both his place of business and residence. The mansion has intense gothic elements, just like the modern City Hall of Kavala which was built in 1890 and resembles a medieval tower.
The church of the Assumption of the Virgin is located on a prominent spot at the southernmost end of the triangular peninsula of the Old Town (Palia Poli), which is known as “Panagia” named after the church. It was built on the same spot where in the 15th century there used to be a women’s monastery.
This is the most characteristic monument of Kavala; the large arch shaped Aqueduct, known as “Kamares” (Arches). It is a construction of the early 16th century, attributed to Ibrahim Pasha (visier of Sultan Suleiman the Legislator) and it witnesses the long course of this place through time.
The Halil Bey Mosque is located in the center of the peninsula, near the Fortress and was built around 1530. During the period 1930 – 1940 the mosque housed the Municipal Philharmonic Orchestra and thus acquired the name “Mosque of Music”, while today it is called “Palia Mousiki”.
The impressive Imaret dominates the peninsula of Panagia and is a unique example of the great institutions of the late Ottoman period. The construction of this charitable institution was conducted by Mehmet Ali, Valis of Egypt, who wanted to benefit his hometown with a religious, educational and philanthropic institution. It functioned as a Muslim seminary, a boarding school and also as a kitchen that offered food to the destitute of the city regardless of their religion. By the end of 1922, the premises of the Imaret were used to house refugees, while today it functions as a hotel.
Ιn the square of the Οld Τown, the house of Mehmet Ali Pasha, who was born in Kavala (1770) and later became governor (valis) of Egypt, is preserved. The so – called “Konaki of Mehmet Ali”, as the two – storey mansion of exquisite architecture is otherwise known, was built at the end of the 18th century and today functions as a museum. In the center of the homonymous square, stands Mehmet Ali’s statue, crafted in Paris by the sculptor Constantinos Dimitriadis, at the request of the Greek community of Egypt.
Kavala, the so – called “Tobacco Mecca”, was a very important tobacco production center in the past. The museum narrates through its rich exhibits, the fascinating history of tobacco in the region. Kapnergatis square is a reference point for tobacco, in which the sculpture of Dimitris Armakolaς stands, a tribute to those who participated in the tobacco workers’ movement at the beginning of the 20th century.
The museum exhibits a total of 34 figures crafted by Theodoros Kokkinidis. Most of them are Greek celebrities from the fields of history, politics, art, letters and sports. This is a unique opportunity to be photographed next to the greatest well – known people of Greece and abroad: Odysseas Elytis, Mimis Plessas, Maria Callas, Aliki Vougiouklaki, Andreas Papandreou, Konstantinos Karamanlis, Melina Merkouri, Michael Jackson, Madonna and other major figures.
Abundant memorabilia of the maritime history and tradition of Kavala constitute the exhibits of the Naval Museum. Among them are replicas of traditional boats, seascapes by local painters, ship logs, navigational instruments, dozens of photos of the port of Kavala, a traditional speedster of 1961 and a historical boat of 1932.
It is the most important archaeological site of eastern Macedonia, with characteristic monuments of the Hellenistic, Roman and Early Christian periods that reveal the long history of the cultures that developed in this region. Since July 2016 the archaeological site of Philippi is among the UNESCO world cultural heritage site list, while it is worth noting that the Early Christian monuments of Philippi are among the best – preserved of their type and for the particular historical period in the whole world. Of great interest is the archaeological museum of Philippi, as well as the archaeological museum of Kavala in the centre of the town.
Basilica B (Ministry of Culture. Archive of the Ephorate of Antiquities of Kavala).
“The copyright of the depicted antiquity (photo 1) belongs to the Ephorate of Antiquities of Kavala and the Ministry of Culture”, “Hellenic Republic, Ministry of Culture, General Directorate of Antiquities and Cultural Heritage, Ephorate of Antiquities of Kavala”.
Southern aspect of the Site (Archive of the Municipal Public Benefit Organisation “DIMOFELEIA”).
Churches with exquisite murals and architecture, imposing cathedrals, chapels, rural pilgrimages and monasteries constitute the heritage of Greek Orthodoxy, which is diffused throughout the wider area of Kavala.
In the footsteps of the Apostle Paul
In the center of the city, in the courtyard of the church of Saint Nicholas, stands a monument that depicts the arrival of the Apostle Paul in 47 AD. in Neapolis (today’s Kavala).
This is the spot that the Apostle Paul baptized the first Greek woman and a European Christian, Lydia Philippisia. The impressive temple –baptistry with its exquisite frescoes and mosaics was completed in 1974. At the adjacent bank of River Zygaktis the outdoor baptistery is located, where every year on May 20th adult baptism is performed.
At a distance of just 3 km from Kavala the Holy Monastery of Apostle Silas is located. After the town of Kavala was liberated, a church in honour of Paul the Apostle was completed in 1926 and later, in 1937, a church was constructed in honour of St Apostle Silas, which in 1946 was converted into a monastery.
The church is a copy of the byzantine church of Saint Gregory in Cappadocian Karvali (Gelveri) and is dedicated to the eminent scholar Gregory the Theologian of Nazianzus.
Since 1924 the relic of the Saint is kept here, placed in a golden larnax.
Before this impressive temple was built, which dominates the top of a rock above the city of Kavala, a small wooden chapel was built in 1928, which was reverently visited by pilgrims. Then, around it, the homonymous settlement was created and the temple took its majestic present form.
From here the visitor can enjoy the captivating beauty of the bay of Kavala and in the back of it, the island of Thassos.
The Monastery of Nikites is built on a rocky, yet verdant region and has taken its name from the adjacent abandoned settlement of Nikites. Highlight of the monastery complex is the portable icon of the Transfiguration of the Saviour, brought over by refugees from Neochori, Panormos in Asia Minor in 1922.
A Women’s monastery located on a verdant hill on the western edge of the community of Nikisiani, on a spot that a chapel of Saint Demetrius pre –existed since 1913. Αbove the monastery complex, there is the holy water spring of Agia Varvara (St Barbara), a spring from which cool water gushes from the Pangeo Mountain.
Built in 1955 at the foot of Mt Pangeo, over the ruins of paleo Chortokopi village, is the absolute core of spirituality and tranquility. The verdant location and the magnificent view will take your breath away and will appease your soul and mind.
It is a newly founded female cenobitic monastery built on the southeastern massif Pangeo, 3 kilometers north of the community of Chrysokastro in the abandoned old village. The monastery follows the typical type of Mount Athos, and is spiritually connected with the Athonite Skete of Daniilai.
The foundation of the Monastery dates back to the 5th century AD and it is the oldest monastery in the area. It is a stronghold of spirituality as until 1843 a school functioned there, known as “The Common Letters” or “Greek School”. It had a remarkable library with over 1000 books and manuscripts, but was looted during the Bulgarian occupation of Eastern Macedonia (1917). During the 2nd World War it was set ablaze but managed to revive through its ashes in 1965 and since then is one of the most important pilgrimages of Eastern Macedonia.
Clear blue waters, never – ending sandy coastline, moments of relaxation on organized or unexplored beaches, fresh fish in picturesque tavernas, the endless sandy beaches of Kavala promise an unforgettable summer full of colours and lifetime memories.
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Akontisma in Nea Karvali, a cradle of Tradition and a Culture hub.
Ιn Kavala there are many options for swimming and they never let you down. The sandy beach of Nea Karvali holds the promise of endless relaxing moments and entertainment at the historical Akontisma of Nea Karvali which is now a multi – site of culture.
At the enchanting Tosca the fine sand, the clear blue waters, the verdant trees that reach the beach and the restaurant with the delicious Mediterranean dishes, make the absolute summer setting.
The idyllic Kalamitsa beach at the western entrance of the city is a favourite destination of the youth.
The coastal village of Keramoti is located on a small peninsula, which forms a natural harbour near the mouth of the Nestor River and is connected to the opposite mainland coast by a bridge. Here you will closely admire the delta of the river and the area’s lagoons. The port of Keramoti has the most frequent routes to the island of Thassos, which is located opposite, mainly during the summer months.
The uniquely beautiful beach of Keramoti stands out for its impressive shape that resembles a tongue, which is why it is called Ammoglossa. It is located across from Thassos and is a strip of land that goes into the sea and consists of pure white sand and lush green pine forest. Due to the deep waters, one can frequently spot dolphins swim and seagulls following them.
To the west of Peramos, the three small bays of Ammolofoi with the transparent waters, the all – white sand and the exotic atmosphere will amaze you. Due to the long stretch of the coastline (3 km) and the swallow waters, it is an ideal choice for all ages and all preferences.
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Exotic mood and absolute relaxation in front of the crystal waters of Ammolofoi. 3.
The charm of Kavala’s landscape and the infinite blue that embraces it, becomes the ideal backdrop for water adventures. With the city’s experienced captains as navigators, a sea ride for recreation or sport will be forever engraved in your memory.
Villages with picturesque harbours, idyllic bays, indented coastlines and delicious dishes by the sea, wait patiently to be explored.
Pangeo / Heraklitsa: The spot where
The impressive late – Byzantine tower of Apollonia stands imposingly at a spot on the old Kavala – Thessaloniki motorway, between the mouth of the River Strymonas and Eleftheres Gulf. From there the eye is lost in the immense blue, while right underneath three beaches await to welcome the visitors to the fine sand and crystal – clear waters.
A picturesque harbour surrounded by one of the most beautiful villages in the area. It has a wonderful blue sea and a sandy beach.
The natural beauty of Ofrynio beach with the endless coast and the crystal waters, is a busy tourist resort during the summer season.
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Nea Peramos is a lowland seaside small town, whose shallow blue
green waters and fine golden sand attract thousands of visitors every year. 1.
The tranquil waters of Nea Peramos as seen from the hill with the remains of the byzantine castle.
A mosaic of hidden treasures lies in mountainous Kavala: dozens of caves, wild flora, unique fauna, natural beauties, points of incomparable view and sublime mountain villages that are ideal for moments of tranquility and traditional flavours. Pangeo, the “mountain of gold”, Mountain Simvolo and Lekani mountains fascinate with the endless forests, the incomparable view and the captivating colourful variations of the landscape.
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Pangeo. 3.
The village of Chrysokastro based at the foot of Pangeo Mountain, impresses with its verdant scenery, the charm of the mountainous landscape and its beautiful waterfalls.
Paleochori, perched on Mt Pangeo, seems like it was taken out of a fairytale and enchants with its picturesqueness.
The tangible History at Chrysokastro of Pangeo.
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Eleftheroupoli, built on the southernmost edge of the Philippi plain, impresses with its picturesqueness.
It is located in the position from which the ancient “Kato Odos”, the most crowded ancient route that started from Byzantium, passed.
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Moustheni is built at the foot of Mount Pangeo and captivates the eye with its arched bridges, the mansions and the traditional fountains with the crystal – clear waters. In Orfani, with history dating back to the archaic period, you will admire the remains of an Ottoman fortress (the so –called Kontessa Castle), while Mesoropi, nestled within the arms of the Pangeo Mt, fascinates the traveler with its imposing 19th century mansions, stone fountains, the water mill and the picturesque bridges.
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Panoramic view of Moustheni.
The traditional square of the village.
The fortifications of the ottoman fortress in Orfani.
Picturesque Mesoropi.
An elegant stone bridge in Mesoropi.
The picturesque Platamonas and the beautiful village of Kechrokampos are declared traditional settlements. Platamonas impresses with the lush green forests that surround it, while Kechrokambos was one of the largest villages in the prefecture of Kavala at the beginning of the 20th century. The traditional cobblestones, the hospitality of the inhabitants and the insurmountable nature will leave the most beautiful memories in your mind.
Zarkadia, the beautiful village at the foot of Lekani mountain range, is ideal for moments of absolute tranquility and offers uninterrupted view towards the island of Thassos.
The mountainous settlement Makrychori is located at the Lekani Mountains. To the north of the village there was an important mining center, which began to operate between the 4th and 2nd centuries BC. From there iron and other precious metals, such as gold were mined.
Chrysoupoli is a small town in the center of the Nestos plain, where you will find agricultural cooperatives with local products, while in the traditional village of Domatia you will admire, among other things, its arched stone bridges.
Lekani, surrounded by mountains, lush vegetation and stone bridges in the wider areςa, is an essential stop for every nature lover. The surrounding forested area with the beeches and the plane trees, creates a dreamy scenery.
Beyond the magnificent sea, the region impresses with its distinctive beauty. Here you will find enchanting trails of low and moderate difficulty, ideal for all ages, surrounded by the abundant nature, the history and the culture. Kavala of adventure is the other side of a multifaced city.
Fifteen kilometers from the city of Kavala is the traditional settlement of Palia Kavala. From there begins the nature path of Palia Kavala, which is one of the most beautiful hiking trails and covers a distance of about 3 km. Picturesque bridges, old plane trees, sparkling waters and the most impressive sight, the sublime waterfall of the path with its two formed pools and their crystal-clear waters, that are ideal for refreshing dives during the summer.
The scenic trail of Mesoropi was created in 2006 by the Forestry of Kavala and allows access to spots of rare beauty with small waterfalls and lakes, while it has benches and pavilions at the resting points.
The ultimate destination for all nature lovers, enchants with its wild and unique beauty. Nestos is a captivating monument of nature that pleases the sight and the senses and causes awe with its geological formations, the verdant banks and the rich avifauna.
(Vulpes vulpes),
(Capreolus capreolus),
(Felis silvestris),
(falco tinnunculus),
(buteo buteo) κ.ά.
The wider area is an ecological paradise with abundant flora and fauna. On the one hand, the Delta of Nestos is one of the most important ecosystems in Greece, where we find rare plants, wild birds and animals. On the other hand, Mount Pangeo with its wide variety of habitats, forests of conifers and broad –leaved trees. Various species of animals and birds find shelter there, such as fox (Vulpes vulpes), deer (Capreolus capreolus), wild cat (Felis silvestris), kestrels (falco tinnunculus), hawk (buteo buteo) etc.
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Aquatic birds.
Felis silvestris.
The Thermal Springs of Eleutheres of Kavala are located 42 km away from Kavala, in a verdant valley crossed by the Marmaras River and are 1.5 km away from the sea. The four thermal springs are ideal for rheumatism, arthritis and gynecological problems, while they offer relaxation to the muscular and nervous system. In the near future the area is expected to be used.
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The absolute experience of good living can also be found in the hotel units of the city. Organized wellness facilities offer relaxing massages, beauty treatments, hot tubs and fully enhance the physical condition and mental health.
Within this verdant landscape, you will find the organized facilities of the Krinides Clay Treatment Centre. Either staying at its campsite or not, you will enjoy the therapeutic clay and the themal springs, at a place where Philip II of Macedon, enjoyed his mud bath.
The influences on the culinary tradition are variant as with the arrival of the refugees in Greece, after the Asia Minor Disaster (1922), Anatolians, Thracians, Pontians, Constantinopolitans and others, settled in the region and thus, gastronomically enhanced the local cuisine.
Traditional kourabiedes in the shape of a crescent moon, all – sweet bougatsa with cream, colourful macaroons and traditionally roasted coffee in hovoli (hot ashes), are waiting for you to enjoy them. Sweet or savoury tastes, Kavala’s cuisine will be memorable.
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Delicious traditional pastry with cream or with other filling (bougatsa).
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The making of the kourabiedes (traditional butter cookies) in a half – moon shape.
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Delicious kourabiedes (traditional butter cookies).
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Traditional Greek coffee ready to be enjoyed.
Colourful macarons for sweet tasty trips.
The region of Kavala has been known since antiquity for its viticulture and the exceptional quality of its wine. The fertile soil, the climatic conditions and the proximity to the sea contribute to this, and shape wines with a distinct identity and a rich aroma.
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Grapes of the land of Kavala.
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Thassos | the emerald of the North Aegean
The early mark Thassos is given to us by texts of ancient authors, such as Herodotus (II, 44) and Thucydides (D, 104, 4).
In Greek mythology, Thassos was the son of Poseidon, or Agenor and Telesfassas. That is mentionted both by Euripides in his play
“The Phoenissae” and Pausanias (E’ 25, 12). According to a different version, Thassos was the son of Kilikas and grandson of Agenor. Thassos accompanied his mother as they searched for his sister, Europa, who had been stolen by Zeus. Then they found themselves on the green island of Thassos with its wonderful beaches, where they stayed for quite a while.
A journey to the green island of Thassos, where the colours dreamily mingle and awaken the visitors’ senses. The green of the pine trees, the blue of the sea, the all – white sand and the gold of the Thassit olive oil, which flows abundantly in the local dishes, captivate with their charm and create lifelong memories.
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All (sea) routes lead to Thassos on a delightful ferry ride accompanied by the seagulls. Upon arrival, the visitor encounters enchanting images, travels to the past with a visit to the ancient theater of Thassos, the archaeological museum and the archaeological site, enjoys the culture of the area at every step and tastes excellent delicacies.
The picturesque old port.
through the picturesque streets.
Kalogeriko at the old port of Thassos.
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Limenas of Thassos is regularly connected by routes from Keramoti's port, in a route that lasts 35
45 minutes.
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The scenic port of Prinos that connects Thassos with Kavala's port "Apostolos
The second largest village of the island offers many types of accommodations, picturesque taverns and beaches for carefree moments of relaxation with the preserved monument of Palataki standing above the hill. A distinctive landscape with all – white, fine sand and few pebbles at the Mines, it is the ideal beach for swimming in its crystal – clear waters and for tranquil strolls along the coast.
It is a women’s monastery built on steep cliffs that take your breath away and give the feeling that the monastery is hovering. A piece of Holy Nail is kept here and attracts a multitude of worshipers.
The Holy Monastery is located at the top of Mount Ipsarion above the traditional village of Mikro Kazaviti. At this spot the miraculous icon of Saint Panteleimon was found and afterwards the church was built in 1843.
The mountainous hinterland of Thassos hides traditional villages fully integrated into the enchanting natural environment. Firs, pines and chestnuts, springs with abundant waters, is an oasis for every season of the year.
An exquisite mountain village with traditional architecture amidst greenery and running waters. With the ambience of the nostalgic past still present, a stroll within the narrow paved streets with the flowering pots and the breathtaking view will reward you.
A traditional mountain village that enchants with its noble appearance, the rich vegetation and the local dishes that you can try in the picturesque taverns.
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Kazaviti is a beautiful mountainous village of traditional architecture in the greenness and the running waters. 3.
A mountain village with cobbled streets and unique houses, that you can reach through a magnificent verdant route of lush vegetation. Here you will enjoy the good climate, the breath – taking view of the mountains, the valley and the sea, while the hospitality of the inhabitants and the traditional flavours will amaze you.
Potamia is built at the foot of a mountain and enchants with the traditional character of its stone houses, which are built against the backdrop of a green landscape. In the center of the village you will a two storey stone building, which houses the Municipal Museum “Polygnotos Vagis”, dedicated to the life and works of the local sculptor.
The green island of Thassos is famous for its idyllic beaches. Some pine – covered with golden sand and emerald waters, others with fine pebbles and clear blue waters, sandy bays or naturally formed rocky pits, will satisfy even the most demanding visitor. Discovering them by boat or sailboat is a unique experience.
According to the myth, Zeus created Giola so Aphrodite could take her bath in its crystal waters. It is a natural cavity with blue – green waters that resembles a swimming pool and offers a unique swimming experience.
Makryammos is located at the edge of a picturesque bay on the northern coastline of Thassos. The dense lush pine trees that enclose the bay and embrace the all white fine sand and the shallow waters, compose a sublime scenery of unique natural beauty
Skala Potamias is a very popular holiday resort of Thassos. Its beach, Chrysi Akti, stretches along a bay surrounded by verdant mountains, while its main feature is the golden sand and the transparent waters that form an earthly paradise. 2
Saliara is one of the most impressive beaches of Thassos. It is located in the north – eastern part of the island within a verdant bay. The all – white shimmering pebbles, the turquoise waters and the lush green pines compose a dreamy canvas that is forever imprinted into the mind.
Glifoneri is a picturesque bay, under the protection of the verdant pine trees, embraces the shimmering sand and the transparent waters. At Paradeisoς the dense forest and the golden sand emit a tropical aroma, while the sandy beaches of Kinira are of large span, have deep blue shallow waters and transform the experience of swimming into a real pleasure.
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The pine – covered beach at Glifoneri.
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A tropical “Paradeisos” (Heaven).
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The colour of the waters at Kinira is breathtaking.
The Tripiti beach combines fine sand and pebbles, while its transparent waters are ideal for diving as the seabed is unique. At Rachoni beach the green pines reach down to the water and give to the sea an evergreen emerald color, while Aliki beach is two bays with turquoise waters that meet in an enchanting setting and provide unique moments to the swimmers.
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The dreamy Tripiti beach from above.
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The endless coastline of Rachoni, with its fine sand and the captivating colours of the land and the sea.
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The enchanting Aliki beach.
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Maries beach from panoramic aspect.
The popular Potos beach. 3.
The captivating Agios Ioannis beach.
The idyllic Vathi beach.
The Thassian gastronomy offers sea – scented dishes, rich breakfasts with local products, excellent quality meats and authentic flavours against the backdrop of emerald waters.
In lush green Thassos, olive trees are plentiful, which is why the island is known for the eclectic olive oil it produces and the distinct Throumba olives. Wherever you look, the olive groves overwhelm the eye and the soul with their blessed fruits, a source of life for this land.
Thassos has been and remains a centre of beekeeping. It produces the renowned pine honey, known for its quality and beneficial properties. The walnut spoon sweet the most famous traditional delicacy of the island, but also the fig spoon sweet will delight the most demanding palates.
Publisher:
Region of Eastern Macedonia and Thrace, Regional Unit of Kavala, Development Division.
Photos:
Archive of the Region of Eastern Macedonia - Thrace and of Kavala Regional Unit, Cloudprint.
We sincerely thank for the contribution of the photographs: The Natural Environment & Climate Change Agency (N.E.C.C.A.), the Municipal Naval Museum of Kavala, the Ephorate of Antiquities of Kavala and the Municipal Public Benefit Corporation
Art direction: Cloudprint, Development Division of the Regional Unit of Kavala
Text editing: Cloudprint
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