Thassos is a Greek island that has become increasingly popular with tourists in recent years. However, there are still plenty of hidden gems to explore in Thassos off the beaten path. 

From stunning beaches to mountain hikes, there’s something for everyone on Thassos. In this article, I’ll take you through 22 places in Thassos off the beaten path that are perfect for igniting your wanderlust.

Kallirachi Chapel of Metamorphosis

Kallirachi is a mountainous village located about 20 km west of the island’s capital, and it’s home to the Chapel of Metamorphosis. This chapel is a must-visit for anyone interested in history and architecture. 

The chapel dates back to the 17th century and has been beautifully preserved. Its stone walls and red-tiled roof make it a striking sight against the backdrop of the surrounding mountains.

Above all, you’ll love the views over Kallirachi and western Thassos. It’s only a 15-minute drive from the village and takes you through a mainly smooth dirt road. Once you reach the bottom of the cliff, climb the steps for 5 minutes, and you’ll be at the top.

Here, villagers from Kallirachi would move whenever they saw pirates approaching the coastline. Being at the top of a steep cliff, they were able to protect themselves and their treasured belongings.

Apostolus Waterfall: exploring Thassos off the beaten path

Apostolus Waterfall is in the north of Thassos, near the village of Kastro. This natural wonder is one of the most beautiful spots on the island. 

The waterfall cascades down a rocky cliff and into a crystal-clear pool below. It’s an excellent spot for swimming and picnicking, and the surrounding area is perfect for hiking.

The best way to get there is from Kastro. Although you can hike there in under one hour, I’d recommend that you rent an e-bike. The Mountain Cube e-bikes are flat-proof and can get you there and back comfortably while still giving you a workout if you wish.

You can now have the e-bike delivered to your accommodation or even to Kastro. So you can drive there, and the e-bikes will wait for you. Alternatively, you can join a Thassos e-bike tour through Kastro and Apostolus waterfall.

The Apostolus waterfall is amazing to visit all year round, especially during winter in Thassos, when the water levels are even higher. If that makes you consider the timing of your holidays, here are the best times to visit Thassos!

Cave formations north of Tripiti Beach

If you’re interested in geology, you’ll love the cave formations north of Tripiti Beach. These natural wonders have been formed over thousands of years and are a sight to behold. 

The caves are only accessible by boat or kayak and are perfect for exploring. I’ve visited them multiple times with my kayak from Tripiti Beach.

However, I’d recommend you get there by boat for more convenience. You can ask the captain to show you the way or rent your boat and explore at your own pace.

Kefala Beach: the most beautiful beach in Thassos off the beaten path

Kefala Beach is a hidden gem on the west coast of Thassos. This secluded cove is only accessible by boat or hiking down a steep trail. 

The effort is worth it, though, as the beach is one of the most beautiful on the island. The crystal-clear water and the surrounding cliffs provide a stunning backdrop.

The beach is full of white pebbles, and despite its beauty, it’s almost always empty. Only a few boats pass by, letting tourists swim and spend time on the beach. 

My recommendation to reach Kefala Beach is to join a Thassos fishing boat trip from Skala Kallirachi. That way, you will get to visit this stunning shore while you spend time fishing and see how locals catch fish. 

Or, if your team is not into fishing, you can still join the trip and skip anything fishing-related! After all, you’ll be in a modern speed boat that can fit up to 10 passengers.

Kastro: the village with the highest altitude in Thassos

Kastro is a medieval-like settlement located on a hilltop in the center of the island. The houses date back to the 15th century and have been beautifully preserved. 

The old walls, ruined towers, and traditional buildings provide a glimpse into Thassos’ rich history. The area is also an excellent spot for panoramic views of the island.

It’s the village with the highest altitude in Thassos and only a 20-minute drive from Limenaria. Once there, explore the old little church (Parekklisi) up the hill. You will love the astonishing view of Thassos!

After you’re done exploring, you need to step into Kostas Taven or Kastro Tavern and get some food. Both spots are amazing and adorable.

Sotiras: the ultimate mountain village in Thassos off the beaten path

Sotiras is a mountain village located in the west of Thassos. The settlement is known for its traditional architecture and beautiful chapels. 

You can still find the walls of the old Krupp office, a big German mining company. After all, mining has been an element of life in mountain villages such as Sotiras.

Today, you can explore the scenic alleys of Sotiras, hike toward Kallirachi, or have dinner at the beautiful tavern in the village’s square. You’ll be surrounded by giant plane trees, and the temperature will be way cooler than anywhere else on the island.

Panteleimon Monastery and Archangel Monastery

Panteleimon Monastery is on the slopes of Mount Ypsario, the highest mountain on Thassos. The monastery dates back to the 18th century and is still in use today. Its beautiful frescoes and stunning views make it a must-visit for anyone interested in history and religion.

Another must-visit destination is Archangel Monastery. At first notice, the monastery seems to float on the rocks above the sea. The archangel Michael is the Patron Saint of the monastery, which is home to about 20 nuns.

They observe the Old Greek Orthodox faith, but visitors can enter the monastery and explore its interior. You are only asked to wear appropriate clothing; even if you don’t, they’ll give you what you need to cover your knees and shoulders.

Pefkaria Beach: a tranquil beach with easy access

Pefkaria Beach is a stunning site on the western coast of Thassos. Pine trees back this long, partly sandy beach and provide an excellent spot for swimming and sunbathing. 

The water is crystal clear, and the beach is relatively quiet compared to some of the more popular spots on the island.

Thanks to its location right next to the main Thassos road, Pefkaria Beach is easy to access. Plus, it won’t take long to find a shaded place under a pine or olive tree.

The one caveat that keeps many from visiting this ideal location is the seabed. For the first 10 meters, the seabed is a rocky, rather slippery area with sea urchins. However, if you wear sea shoes, you don’t have to worry, and it’ll be easy to reach the sandy part, which is about chest level. 

Potos Cape: ideal for a short walk from Agios Antonios Beach or a small e-bike drive away

Potos Cape is a beautiful spot on the south coast of Thassos. This rugged coastline provides a stunning backdrop for a walk or bike ride. 

The area is relatively undeveloped, so it’s an excellent spot for getting away from the crowds of cosmopolitan Potos and enjoying some peace.

You can reach the path from San Antonio Beach. Look for the nearest chapel and head toward that. The dirt road along the coastline takes you to Potos Cape and is an ideal way to explore this remote peninsula.

Paradise Beach Hike Viewpoint

Paradise Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Thassos, but a hidden gem in the mountains is even more worth exploring. 

The Paradise Beach Hike Viewpoint provides a stunning panoramic view of the beach and the surrounding cliffs. 

The hike starts from Theologos and turns right when you reach the views of Golden Beach. It’s not an easy hike, but the final panoramas will reward every bit of your effort. 

I guarantee: this is one of the best hikes in Thassos that you can do in one morning!

It’s no wonder hiking is among the top reasons to visit Thassos.

Limenas Karnagio chapel

Limenas Karnagio Chapel is a beautiful spot in the capital of Thassos. The chapel dates back to the 19th century and has been beautifully preserved. 

Its red-tiled roof and white-washed walls make it a striking sight against the blue sky.

It’s also an easy walk from the center of Thassos town. You can reach it through the dirt path parallel to the main coastline road. As a point of reference, the popular Karnagio beach bar is right below the chapel.

Rachoni: one of the most traditional villages in Thassos off the beaten path

Rachoni is a village in the north of Thassos, where everything revolves around the olive harvest. For example, you can arrange olive-picking excursions during the harvest season in November and December. That’s a great way to get involved with the local community and learn about the island’s history and traditions.

At the entrance of the village Rachoni, you’ll see a large church surrounded by century-old trees and flowing water. A bit higher up, notice a few slate-roofed houses that have been preserved, an epitome of 18th and 19th-century building styles. 

The village Agios Georgios currently lies just before Rachoni, but it used to be higher up, further inland. A road is still leading to the old site, where a picturesque church lies between tall pine trees. The Egyptian regent of Thassos, Mehmet Ali (1813-1902), spent his youth in Agios Georgios. Later, he became an important Egyptian statesman in the citadel of Cairo.

Kallirachi: a remote paradise in Thassos off the beaten path

Kallirachi is a mountain village in the west of Thassos, known for its traditional architecture and stunning views. The village square is an excellent spot for a coffee or a meal, and the surrounding mountains provide a great hiking backdrop.

From the village, you can take a lovely walk to the mountain Kakirachi, where the church of Metamorphosi lies. Kallirachi was built after the pirates made their retreat. The inhabitants left the old village of Kakirachi, and built their new home on a hill, from where the olive groves and the sea are easier to access.

Skala Prinos: the secondary port of Thassos

Skala Prinos is a village in the north of Thassos known for its honey production. Here, you can visit the Beekeepers’ Collective Honey Factory to learn about beekeeping and sample different honey varieties. 

The settlement is also great for hiking and exploring the surrounding countryside. The Pine forest that sits south of the port is ideal for walking or cycling with an e-bike. One of my favorite cycling routes in Thassos is the path that connects Skala Prinos with Skala Sotiros.

Skala Prinos is also important for its ferry connection to Kavala. As you walk along the coast, notice the small shipyard where a family still practices the time-honored profession.

Potamia: the magnificent entry to the tallest peak in Thassos

Potamia is a village in the south of Thassos, built on the foot of the highest mountains. The settlement is known for its stone-built church and sculpture museum. 

You can also visit the Thasos Donkeys sanctuary, which works to improve the lives of these hard-working animals. The sanctuary hosts a donkey-racing event during an annual festival, a great way to experience the local culture.

The sculptor Polygnoros Vagis was from Potamia. His work O Ypnos, which means Sleep, has acquired great recognition in America. You can admire his legacy in the museum near the village’s lower church, which used to be a little school. 

As you stroll around Skala Potamia, remember a local tale: a rumor says that many descendants of old pirates live in Potamia!

Mount Ipsario: the best views in Thassos

Mount Ipsario is the highest mountain on Thassos and is an excellent spot for hiking and exploring. The trail starts from the village of Potamia and takes about three hours to complete. 

Alternatively, you can hike there from Theologos or even take an e-bike tour from Maries.

No matter how you reach the peak, one thing is sure: the views from the top are stunning. You can even stay overnight at the Thassian Mountaineering Club Shelter.

Mikro and Megalo Kazaviti: the two brother villages in Thassos off the beaten path

Just above the village of Prinos, two old villages are perched on the forested mountain slope, like swallow’s nests. Mikro and Megalo Kazaviti.

These settlements are known for their traditional tavernas and the captivating sunset views. After all, the best way to experience the village is to have dinner in one of its taverns right before sunset. If you do, order the cheese pie and the red peppers stuffed with feta cheese. These local specialties are a must!

High up on the mountain, above Mikro Kazavitis, there is the monastery of Pandeleimonas, which offers a beautiful view. You can access it by an asphalted road.

Megalo Kazavitis has a village square hidden in the shadows of some age-old Plane trees. A stroll through these villages is a must in the area. It’s like stepping into another era.

Salonikios Beach: a fabulous beach away from crowds

Salonikios Beach is a hidden gem on the south coast of Thassos. The reddish sand makes it stand out from other beaches on the island, and the hammocks hanging between trees provide natural shade. 

It’s a great spot for relaxation away from the tourist crowds. One of the best ways to reach this secluded paradise is by renting an e-bike and getting there quickly. After all, you must get through a dirt road, so a mountain e-bike is ideal.

The Poetry Trail: an ultimate hike in Thassos off the beaten path

The Poetry Trail is an 800-metre-long hiking route on the western side of Thassos. 

The trail starts from the village of Kallirachi, known for its stunning views and the poems and writings of greats such as Rainer Maria Rilke and Goethe, which are carved on marble slabs marking the route.

Walking this trail is a one-of-a-kind experiment that will leave you in awe. It’s also a nice way to reach the Metamorphosis chapel on the Kakirachi cliff.

To Klisma: two supreme taverns by the water

To Klisma is a tavern near Plaka that offers stunning sea views. The seafood and local specialties are delicious, and the atmosphere is perfect for relaxing and enjoying the view.

Imagine tables and chairs right where the wages hit the pebble beach. It’s also an ideal spot for a quick dive since the seabed turns sandy after 3 meters.

Of course, the highlight is no other than the fresh seafood! Sometimes, you can even order fish caught from one of the owners just minutes away in front of you.

Tzines Cave: a prehistoric 300-year-old cave

For one of the most rewarding hikes in Thassos, get ready to visit one of the oldest caves in the world that humans have used.

Tzines cave has the oldest mining activity on the island, and you can still visit it.

Getting to the entrance will take about one-hour of hiking, while getting inside will be another adventure.

Are you ready for it?

Skala Kallirachi: a serene coastline village in Thassos off the beaten path

Skala Kallirachi is a village in the west of Thassos, known for its traditional architecture and stunning views. 

The village square is a great spot for a coffee or a meal, and the surrounding mountains provide an excellent backdrop for a hike.

The village’s two sandy beaches and the settlement’s magnificent fishing port are three more highlights. 

Top Thassos Instagram Spots

Thassos is a beautiful island with plenty of Instagram-worthy spots to explore. Some of the top 10 instagrammable places in Thassos include the Chapel of Metamorphosi in Kallirachi, the Apostolus Waterfall, and Kefala Beach. Limenaria and Thasos Town are also great spots for Instagram photos, with their beautiful architecture and stunning views.

If you want to discover more, check out all the fantastic Instagrammable spots of Thassos.

Things to do in Thassos Town

Thassos Town is the capital of the island and is an excellent spot for exploring the rich Thasos history and culture. The Archaeological Museum is a must-visit, with its ancient artifacts and exhibits collection. The Ancient Agora is also worth exploring, with its ruins of old buildings and temples.

Thassos Attractions Map

If you’re planning a trip to Thassos, a Thassos attractions map can be handy. It will help you plan your itinerary and ensure you get all of the island’s hidden gems. The map should include all of the spots we’ve mentioned in this article and other popular attractions such as the Marble Beach and the Ancient Theatre.

By the way, if you haven’t decided on your detailed Thasos itinerary yet, check one of my suggested itineraries for your Thasos holidays: a 7-day itinerary, a 5-day itinerary, or a shorter 4-day itinerary.

Once you have this figured out, all you need to know is how to get to Thassos Island. Then, you’re successfully set to create unforgettable memories!

While you’re on the island, make sure also to follow these 24 insider Thassos travel tips and avoid these common 20 Thassos Travel mistakes.

And when you want to read something fun about the island during your holidays, here are 35 fun facts about Thassos.

Conclusion of places in Thassos off the beaten path

Thassos is a beautiful island with plenty of hidden gems to explore. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or nature, there’s something for everyone on this stunning island. So pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to ignite your wanderlust!

And because I know Instagram posts are never perfect without a caption or quote, here are 106 Captions and Quotes about Thassos to spice up your Instagram feed!

If you want to view more stellar destinations in Thassos, visit these 20 most Instagrammable places in Thassos or these 22 places in Thassos off-the-beaten-path.

For even more places to visit, check out this complete list of 101 Things to Do on the Island, read my Comprehensive Guide on all Thassos Villages, or get inspiration from these 21 ideas for Day Trips in Thassos!