Greece's hidden gem: Thassos

If you love Greece, but want to get away from the usual touristy spots, then Thassos is the perfect place for you. This gem is off the coast of mainland Greece, with the island being so small that it doesn’t even have its own airport. In order to travel to Thassos, you will need to take a flight to Kavala airport, and then a 40 minute ferry over to the island.

Places to stay include the small towns of Potos, and Limenaria in the south of the island, as well as Golden Beach area on the east coast.

Thassos’ Giola is one of the most famous spots on the island. The giola is a natural, rocky pool, located in the region of Astris. The pool is eight meters’ deep, and is the perfect spot to stop for a swim. Separated for the sea by a narrow strip of rock and carved into a coral reef that rises above it, the pool’s water is crystal clear. This is one of the most famous places on the island as the Giola has made the list as one of the most beautiful natural pools in the world and is simply stunning. Greek locals believe that the pool was created by Greek god Zeus, with Aphrodite regularly going swimming there.

Thassos Town is full of history and culture.  The town has an ancient amphitheatre the romans used for gladiatorial contests. The theatre is still used today and you can catch a musical performance or play there if you wish. Markets take place every Wednesday and Saturday, with locals selling goods including olive oil, which the island is known for producing.

The 13th century Monastery at Archangelos is another place to take a trip to, and hangs over a sheer cliff drop in the south eastern part of the island. The monastery has a collection of religious artefacts, including a nail said to have been from the cross on which Jesus was crucified. If you decide to visit to the monastery, make sure to dress appropriately. Women are expected to cover up, with shoulders and knees hidden.

Along with being packed full of history, Thassos has some of the most beautiful beaches out of all the Greek islands. Golden beach is to the south east of Limenas, with golden sand and crystalline waters. Paradise beach is further along down the coast from golden beach, with it being famous for its picturesque location, along with white sand.

Greece is a stunning country and small islands like these tend to be unspoilt by tourism. So why not go ahead book your flight today?