Samothrace

© Shutterstock

The Island of the Great Gods

Verdant Canyons, Imposing Waterfalls and Intoxicating Sceneries Under the Enigmatic Mysteries of the Great Gods and the Glowing Lights of the Moon
From the grand arc of the wild ridge of Moon, Poseidon observed the War of Troy. Motherland of the Wings of Victory, Samothrace is blessed with the finest of wild nature. Alleged as the most alluring place of natural beauty in Greece, Samothrace is blessed with snowy mountains, flowing springs, gigantic waterfalls, verdant vegetation always overlooking the endless blue of the Aegean. The rocky and steep slopes of the majestic mountain of Saos create lush canyons and sheer cliffs with numerous springs and waterfalls descending to the Aegean. The most important religious center of the ancient world of Greece hides mysterious secrets in the land of Samothrace.Mystical deities, legendary mysteries and powerful gods made Samothrace the island of the Great Gods. The verdant green strip of the island seems to have seceded from the coast of the mainland making you forget that this place is surrounded from the sea. The disarming gurgle of the waterfalls creates an intoxicating atmosphere for ultimate relaxation under the incredible shadow of the trees; Samothrace forms its own distinctive character, a different island from all the others. Concelaed under the enigmatic mysteries of the Great Gods, Samothrace resembles a silent conspiracy of chthonic rites of Cabeiroi. Glowing from the twilight of the moon, Samothrace hides the mysteries to the Great Gods from the glances of the ones who are not yet ready to accept its magnificent diversity. It may sound strange, nonetheless the atmosphere and the rhythms in Samothrace are different from the other islands.

Discover Samothrace

Best of Samothrace

The Capital of Samothrace

The Settlement of Hora is the capital of Samothrace located on the central part of the island. Declared as a preserved traditional settlement, the village spreads amphitheatrically between the mountain slopes of Saos. The lovely village has managed to maintain its traditional identity distinguished for its stone houses and its cobblestone squares. The Aetsenia Houses are examples of one of the most ancient forms of housing in the Mediterranean. Worth visiting sights include the Church of the Assumption of Virgin Mary, the Folklore Museum and the traces of the Castle of Gateluzi.

The Nature of Samothrace

Samothrace is blessed with the finest of nature. The south side of the island is characterized from natural elements of the Aegean drowned from brushwood and olive trees while the north side of the island is blessed with verdant vegetation. The Forest of Martini is a dense forest with chestnut trees that resembles a jungle with broadleaf shrubs. Samothrace has abundant tress and flowing streams and waterfalls that end in the sea. Mount Saos is the third highest mountain of the Aegean that dominates the entire island. The landscapes of the northern and southern part of Samothrace showcase a striking difference of unique ecological value. The Lagoon of Agios Andreas and the Wetland of Vdelolimni serve as important areas for migratory bird species. However, the landmarks of Samothrace are the streams and waterfalls flowing from Mount Saos all the way to the sea. On their way to the Aegean, these streams form waterfalls and basins, the so called vathres. The Stream of Fonias is the longest stream of the island while the Waterfall of Klidosi is the highest waterfall of the island. Other natural beauty areas include the Waterfalls of Gria Vathra, Karia, Klidosi and Kremasto. The streams of Agistros, Arapis, Karagiannakis and Xeropotamos also offer beautiful waterfalls. Another important aspect of the nature of Samothrace is the Thermal Sulphur Springs of Therma located on the north side of the village of Therma. The European Network of Natura 2000 has declared a large area of the island as a protected area due to its high ecological value.

The Sanctuary of the Great Gods

The Sanctuary of the Great Gods is one of the most important archaeological monuments of the country located on the west side of the area of the ancient town of Paleopoli. The ancient town of Samothrace was built on the northern foothills of Agios Giorgis. Today, fragments of the walls and foundations of the houses are still visible. The major religious center of the Sanctuary of the Great Gods was used as the worship place of the mysteries in honour of the Great Gods. The Cabeirian Mysteries was a religious event of great importance in antiquity. The numerous buildings of the area witness the religious activity of the sanctuary. Indications of religious activity date to the 7th century BC. However, the construction of the monument began in the 4th century BC. Monuments include the Propylon of Ptolemeos, a monumental gateway dedicated to the Gods from the king of Egypt, the Sacred Circle, the votive monument of Philip Arrhidaeus and Alexander IV, the Anaktoron that was the place where the mysteries were held, the Arsinoeion, the hall of choral dancers called Temenos, the Hieron, the Stoa that accommodated the visitors of the temple and an exact replica of the Statue of Nike that commemorates the victory of Samothrace.

The Village of Prophet Elias

The Village of Prophet Elias is the most mountainous village located on the west side of the island. The settlement is built on the mountain slopes of Saos with panoramic views to the islands of Imvros and Limnos and Mount Athos. The village has a authentic character distinguished for its traditional architecture of Samothrace and its beautiful sunset views. Also, Prophet Elias is known for the delicious stuffed goat dish of Samothrace.

Archaeological Sites

The Sanctuary of the Great Gods is one of the most important archaeological monuments of the country located on the west side of the area of the ancient town of Paleopoli. The ancient town of Samothrace was built on the northern foothills of Agios Giorgis. Today, fragments of the walls and foundations of the houses are still visible. The major religious center of the Sanctuary of the Great Gods was used as the worship place of the mysteries in honour of the Great Gods. The Cabeirian Mysteries was a religious event of great importance in antiquity. It is worth mentioning that the identity of the gods worshipped on Samothrace, the renowned Cabeiroi, still remains unknown. The numerous buildings of the area witness the religious activity of the sanctuary. Indications of religious activity date to the 7th century BC. However, the construction of the monument began in the 4th century BC. Monuments include the Propylon of Ptolemeos, a monumental gateway dedicated to the Gods from the king of Egypt, the Sacred Circle, the votive monument of Philip Arrhidaeus and Alexander IV, the Anaktoron that was the place where the mysteries were held, the Arsinoeion, the hall of choral dancers called Temenos, the Hieron, the Stoa that accommodated the visitors of the temple and an exact replica of the Statue of Nike that commemorates the victory of Samothrace.

The Statue of the Winged Victory of Samothrace, else called as the Nike of Samothrace, is a white marble sculpture of the Greek Goddess Nike. The statue was discovered on the archaeological site of the Great Gods of Samothrace from the archaeologist Charles Champoiseau in 1863. According to historical evidence, the statue commemorated a great victory connected with a naval battle. The statue was created from an unknown artist in the 2nd century BC. Since 1884, the statue is one of the main exhibits of the Museum of Louvre in Paris. H.W. Hanson has described the Nike of Samothrace as “…the greatest masterpiece of Hellenistic sculpture…”

Castles & Fortresses

The Fortresses and the Towers of Samothrace are important monuments and examples of the late byzantine fortress architecture. When Samothrace was dominated from the dominance of the Genoese Family of Gateluzi, the ruler Palamidis Gateluzi fortified the entire island with the intention of protecting it from pirate invasions and Ottoman raids. Examples of these fortifications can be found in the settlement of Hora, the ancient town of Paleopoli and the cape of Fonias.

Churches and Monasteries

The Chapel of Panagia Krimniotissa is located in the area of Pahia Ammos. The chapel is built on a high cliff offering astonishing views to the Aegean. According to tradition, the icon of Virgin Mary was thrown in the sea from some Christians of Asia Minor in order to save it from the iconoclasts. However, some sailors found the icon floating in the sea and took it. Thereafter, the captain saw in his sleep Virgin Mary who asked him to go to Samothrace. Although the captain went to the island and the icon was placed in the church, every night the icon was gone and the inhabitants found in on the tall rock. Therefore, the inhabitants built the chapel of Panagia Krimniotissa on that spot.

The Church of the Assumption of Virgin Mary is located in Hora. It is a remarkable example of monumental architecture. The church was built in 1857. Inside the church, one can admire a collection of old ecclesiastical icons and the relics of the five martyrs of Samothrace.

Museums

The Archaeological Museum of Samothrace is located in Paleopoli. The majority of the exhibits were found in the area of the Sanctuary of the Great Gods. The most important exhibit is the exact replica of the statue of the Nike of Samothrace. The original statue is displayed at the Louvre Museum in Paris.

The Folklore Museum of Samothrace is housed in a traditional building of the 19th century in Hora. The museum is dedicated to the folklore and rural history of the island. Exhibits include agricultural tools, local costumes, cotton bed sheets, thread tools and traditional artefacts.

Natural Beauties

Samothrace is blessed with the finest of nature. The south side of the island is characterized from natural elements of the Aegean drowned from brushwood and olive trees while the north side of the island is blessed with verdant vegetation. The Forest of Martini is a dense forest with chestnut trees that resembles a jungle with broadleaf shrubs. Samothrace has abundant tress and flowing streams and waterfalls that end in the sea. Mount Saos is the third highest mountain of the Aegean that dominates the entire island. The landscapes of the northern and southern part of Samothrace showcase a striking difference of unique ecological value. The Lagoon of Agios Andreas and the Wetland of Vdelolimni serve as important areas for migratory bird species. However, the landmarks of Samothrace are the streams and waterfalls flowing from Mount Saos all the way to the sea. On their way to the Aegean, these streams form waterfalls and basins, the so called vathres. The Stream of Fonias is the longest stream of the island while the Waterfall of Klidosi is the highest waterfall of the island. Other natural beauty areas include the Waterfalls of Gria Vathra, Karia, Klidosi and Kremasto. The streams of Agistros, Arapis, Karagiannakis and Xeropotamos also offer beautiful waterfalls. Another important aspect of the nature of Samothrace is the Thermal Sulphur Springs of Therma located on the north side of the village of Therma. The European Network of Natura 2000 has declared a large area of the island as a protected area due to its high ecological value.

Promenades and Villages

Alonia is a mountainous settlement located on the west part of the island. The traditional houses with the flowery courtyards give a charming atmosphere in the settlement. The sunset from Alonia should not be missed, as the view of the astonishing colours is a great spectacle. The most important monument of Alonia is the monastery of Agios Athanasios with the miraculous ecclesiastical icon.

Hora is the capital of Samothrace located on the central part of the island. Declared as a preserved traditional settlement, the village spreads amphitheatrically between the mountain slopes of Saos. The lovely village has managed to maintain its traditional identity distinguished for its stone houses and its cobblestone squares. The Aetsenia Houses are examples of one of the most ancient forms of housing in the Mediterranean. Worth visiting sights include the Church of the Assumption of Virgin Mary, the Folklore Museum and the traces of the Castle of Gateluzi.

Kamariotissa is the harbour of Samothrace located on the south side of the island. The harbour was named after the icon of Virgin Mary displayed in the church of Panagia Kamariotissa. The settlement is the starting point of the road network of the island that leads to the two sides of Samothrace. Kamariotissa is the most cosmopolitan settlement of the island during the summer.

Lakkoma is a mountainous settlement located on the south part of the island. The lovely settlement has managed to maintain its traditional character. Lakkoma spreads in one of the most fertile areas of Samothrace renowned for its olive oil. Pahia Ammos beach can be accessed through a dirt road starting from the village of Lakkoma. The windmills of Lakkoma are examples of the early industrial architecture of the island that survive in this area. Lakkoma is an ideal place for autumn, as it offers numerous mountaineering excursions.

Prophet Elias is the most mountainous village located on the west side of the island. The settlement is built on the mountain slopes of Saos with panoramic views to the islands of Imvros and Limnos and Mount Athos. The village has a authentic character distinguished for its traditional architecture of Samothrace and its beautiful sunset views. Also, Prophet Elias is known for the delicious stuffed goat dish of Samothrace.

Therma is a mountainous village located on the north side of the island. The name of the settlement derives from the thermal springs of the area known for their therapeutic properties since antiquity. Enthusiasts of hiking can follow the numerous trails that lead to the imposing waterfalls and abundant springs of Samothrace. The renowned waterfalls of Gria Vathra are located close to Therma under the beautiful chestnut forest of Martini.

Sunset Spots

Spot: Beach of Therma, North Samothrace

Spot: Harbour of Kamariotissa, West Samothrace

Spot: Chapel of Prophet Elias, West Samothrace

Spot: Church of Panagia Krimniotissa, South Samothrace

Spot: Village of Hora, West Samothrace

Activities

Bird Watching: The flora and fauna of Samothrace is quite remarkable. The island has the perfect environment for thousands native and migratory birds. In fact, Samothrace stands for numerous areas with high ecological value that serve as major stations and shelters of migratory birds. Particularly in the mountainous areas of Samothrace, one will have the opportunity to encounter numerous bird species including cormorants, falcons, hawks, herons, kestrels and sea shags. The lagoon of Agios Andreas and the wetland of Vdelolimni are some of the most important areas of bird watching.

Camping: The natural diversity of the island makes it an ideal destination for camping. The municipal campsite of Samothrace is located close to the village of Therma.

Hiking and Mountaineering: Samothrace is an ideal destination for hiking lovers. The natural diversity of the island encompasses numerous sceneries of exotic beauty with flowing streams and imposing waterfalls. (1) One of the most beautiful mountaineering routes leads leading to the highest peak of Mount Saos. Numerous trails start from different regions including Ano Meria, Hora and Therma. The journey usually lasts four hours. (2) The majestic landscape of outstanding natural beauty with towering waterfalls that leads to the stream of Fonias is one of the most intriguing hiking routes. (3) Another interesting route leads to the stream of Xeropotamos. (4) The route starting from the settlement of Ano Meria leads to the natural beauty setting of the area of Karya is also quite interesting. Discover more information from the Mountaineering Association of Samothrace.

Kayaking: The opportunity to practice kayak in Samothrace is definitely an unforgettable experience. The inaccessible beaches between spectacular cliffs, the hanging waterfalls falling into the sea, the geological formations in conjunction with the verdant vegetation create stunning landscapes.

Mountain Biking: The rich natural diversity of Samothrace is highly suitable for mountain and road biking. Exciting trails from rural roads to trekking trails are available in various parts of the island. The most appropriate location for mountain biking is the village of Therma. Fonias Canyon and Gria Vathra Waterfall are located nearby.

Thermal Springs: The village of Therma is known for its thermal sulphur springs and its therapeutic properties since antiquity. The springs are appropriate for diseases including arthritis, arthropathy, gynaecological diseases and dermal diseases. Temperature fluctuates between 30 to 100 degrees of Celsius.

Beaches

Karkani is a sandy beach with blue waters located next to the beach of Pahia Ammos. The beach is hidden between rising cliffs, so bare in mind that access is difficult.

Kipos is a long golden sandy beach with blue waters located on the northwest side of the island. It is accessible by boat from Therma or Kamariotissa. If you want to access it through the hiking trails, keep in mind that some areas of the island are difficult.

Pahia Ammos is a long sandy beach with turquoise waters located on the southernmost side of the island. It is the most beautiful beach of Samothrace accessible through a dirt road from the village of Lakkoma. The chapel of Panagia Krimniotissa is located in the wider area.

Therma is a sandy and pebbled beach with blue waters located on the north side of the island. The surrounding vegetation creates beautiful sceneries.

Vatos is a pebbled beach with emerald waters located on the southernmost side of the island. It is one of the most beautiful beaches of Samothrace and a favourite of lovers of nature. However, the beach is accessible only by boat from the harbour of Kamariotissa. There, you will witness the waterfall of Kremasto falling straight into the sea from a height of 180 meters.

Coffee Corners, Gastronomic Delights and Cocktail Inspirations

Coffee Corners 

Ageliki: Pastries, Kamariotissa

Kafenes “Ta Therma”: Coffee, Therma

Lefkos Pirgos: Ice Cream and Pastries, Hora

Meltemi: Coffee, Hora

O Mavros: Coffee, Lakkoma

Salamanis: Pastries, Kamariotissa

Sholio: Coffee, Kamariotissa

Stenaki: Breakfast and Coffee, Hora

Gastronomic Delights

Asprovalta: Greek Cuisine, Kato Kariotes

Feggari: Greek Cuisine, Therma

Gefyri: Greek Cuisine, Therma

Gria Vathra: Greek Cuisine, Therma

Kafenio “Ta Therma”: Ouzo and Meze, Therma

Karydies: Greek Cuisine, Ano Meria

Klimataria: Greek Cuisine, Kamariotissa

Paradisos: Greek Cuisine, Prophet Elias

O Kipos tou Ouranou: Greek Cuisine, Therma

Sotiros: Greek Cuisine, Hora

Vraxos: Greek Cuisine, Profitis Elias

Cocktail Inspirations

Arsinoe Pool Bar: Cocktails and Drinks, Palaiopoli

Lydia Cocktail Bar: Cocktails and Drinks, Hora

Saoki Beach Bar: Cocktails and Drinks, Therma

Sholio: Coffee, Kamariotissa

Stenaki: Breakfast and Coffee, Hora

Local Products & Specialties

The local products of the island include the cheeses of mizithra and kefalotiri, olive oils, sweet spoons, fine honey and the alcoholic drink of tsipouro.

The local specialties of the island include goat cooked traditionally stuffed with rice and herbs wrapped in grease proof paper, and roasted or cooked goat with fresh vegetables.

Events & Festivals

Every summer, the Kaviria Festival takes place in the island. The festival hosts a series of cultural and musical special events. The festival is usually held from July to August.

Every 17th of July, the traditional celebration in honour of Prophet Elias takes place in the village of Prophet Elias.

Every 15th of August, the traditional celebration in honour of Virgin Mary takes place at the Church of Panagia Kamariotissa.

Every August, the Samothrace Dance Festival takes place in the island. It is usually held on the moonlight of August for a period of four days.

Every November, the Festival of Tsipouro takes place in Samothrace.

History & Mythology

Mythology

The Kabirian Mysteries

Like the Eleusinian mysteries, the mysteries of the Great Gods of Samothrace were highly respected in the ancient world of the Mediterranean. Cabeiroi were mystic divinities occurring in various regions of the ancient world. The Sanctuary of the Great Gods was considered as one of the most important religious centres of the country, respected and protected until the end of the 4th century AD. The character, identity and meaning of these divinities are still uncertain, as it has been traced to the majority of the languages of the East. In the case of Samothrace, the Cabeiroi were twin gods who presided over the orgiastic dances of the mysteries of Samothrace. The mysteries were performed in honour of the goddesses Demeter, Hecate and Persephone. The secret of the mysteries of Samothrace has been kept, as little historical evidence exist in the modern world. The mysteries of Samothrace did not publish the exact names of their gods; they rather inscribed them as Great Gods. During the classical years of the culture of Greece, the mysteries of Kabeiroi remained popular, although little was entrusted in writing.

History

Archaeological findings show that Samothrace was inhabited from the Pelasgians, the Carians and the Thracians since the Neolithic times. In 508 BC, Samothrace was conquered from the Persians followed by the Athenians. In the 5th century BC, Samothrace became a member of the Delian League. Afterwards, the island became a part of the Macedonian Kingdom until the battle of Pydna, when Samothrace became independent. In 70 AD, Samothrace fell under the rule of the Roman and the Byzantine Empires. Samothrace entered into a period of decline during the Byzantine domination as the temple festivals were prohibited and the migration to the mountains led to the abandonment of the old city. Thereafter, the island passed into the domination of Venetians followed from the Ottoman Empire. Samothrace was reunited to the Greek State in 1913.

Travel & Transport

By Boat (43 Nautical Miles): Samothrace is accessible by boat from the harbour of Alexandroupoli in Northern Greece. Discover more information from The journey usually lasts two hours. Discover more information from the Official Website of Saos Ferries and the Official Website of the Port Authority of Alexandroupoli. Book your tickets with FerriesinGreece.com !

Mysterious Greece Tips

Adventure Experiences

Samothrace is blessed with the finest of nature. The south side of the island is characterized from natural elements of the Aegean drowned from brushwood and olive trees while the north side of the island is blessed with verdant vegetation. The Forest of Martini is a dense forest with chestnut trees that resembles a jungle with broadleaf shrubs.  Samothrace has abundant tress and flowing streams and waterfalls that end in the sea. Mount Saos is the third highest mountain of the Aegean that dominates the entire island. The landscapes of the northern and southern part of Samothrace showcase a striking difference of unique ecological value. The Lagoon of Agios Andreas and the Wetland of Vdelolimni serve as important areas for migratory bird species. However, the landmarks of Samothrace are the streams and waterfalls flowing from Mount Saos all the way to the sea. On their way to the Aegean, these streams form waterfalls and basins, the so called vathres.  The Stream of Fonias is the longest stream of the island while the Waterfall of Klidosi is the highest waterfall of the island. Other natural beauty areas include the Waterfalls of Gria Vathra, Karia, Klidosi and Kremasto. The streams of Agistros, Arapis, Karagiannakis and Xeropotamos also offer beautiful waterfalls. All of these locations offer beautiful experiences for hiking, mountaineering and mountain biking enthusiasts!

An Advice from A Friend: Disable your Mobile, as the Value is Priceless!

Samothrace is an alternative island. It is the place which will make you forget the endless list of your duties and the thousands electronic devices of yours. So, disable your mobiles. No 3G. No Facebook. No Calls. The value is priceless.

Ask the Locals

As the majority of the trails in Samothrace are not sign posted, it is highly advisable to ask for advice from the locals!

Autumn and Spring in Samothrace

Distinguished for its wild beauty, Samothrace is an ideal destination for both autumn and spring! The beauty of the countryside and the verdant mountainous sceneries of the island are outstanding in spring while the captivating colours will definitely capture your attention in autumn.

Blessed from Wild Beauty

The south side of Samothrace is dominated from bare slopes, sparse shrubs and wheat fields while the north side of Samothrace is dominated from verdant slopes with forests of oak trees ending to the seashores with studding streams and waterfalls. The endemicity of the plants increases the importance of nature on the island!

Blue, Cobalt and Sapphire Waters

Samothrace is renowned for its natural beauty diversity. The beaches accessible from the road network include Kipos and Pahia Ammos. The other beaches are accessible only by boat. You should definitely catch the boat and discover the inaccessible areas of this beautiful island! The beach of Vatos with its cold waters and the waterfall of Kremasto are some of the most intriguing stops of the journey!

Camping on Samothrace

Samothrace is an island that will rejuvenate your body, mind and soul! The municipal campsite of Therma offers all the needed facilities for camping lovers.

Dedicate a Day to Sanctuary of the Great Gods

The Sanctuary of the Great Gods is one of the most important archaeological monuments of the country located on the west side of the area of the ancient town of Paleopoli. The ancient town of Samothrace was built on the northern foothills of Agios Giorgis. Today, fragments of the walls and foundations of the houses are still visible. The major religious center of the Sanctuary of the Great Gods was used as the worship place of the mysteries in honour of the Great Gods. The Cabeirian Mysteries was a religious event of great importance in antiquity.  The numerous buildings of the area witness the religious activity of the sanctuary. Indications of religious activity date to the 7th century BC. However, the construction of the monument began in the 4th century BC. Monuments include the Propylon of Ptolemeos, a monumental gateway dedicated to the Gods from the king of Egypt, the Sacred Circle, the votive monument of Philip Arrhidaeus and Alexander IV, the Anaktoron that was the place where the mysteries were held, the Arsinoeion, the hall of choral dancers called Temenos, the Hieron, the Stoa that accommodated the visitors of the temple and an exact replica of the Statue of Nike that commemorates the victory of Samothrace.

Discover the Tank of Samothrace

On the southeastern side of the island, one will have the opportunity to discover an old tank from the Second World War standing strong against time. It was the first American made tank of the Greek Army that was used from 1950 to 1980. The specific model is considered to be very useful fore defensive purposes.

Exclusively for Photographers

The natural diversity and the hidden hinterland of Samothrace offer numerous astonishing sceneries to capture with your eyes! But it would be a shame not to remember those beautiful landscapes, wouldn’t it? So, make sure you bring your camera with you!

Hiking Higher than Highest during the Full Moon of August

The Mountaineering Association of Samothrace “Feggari” organizes hiking excursion to the highest point of Mount Saos during the full moon night of August. It is a challenge to climb to the top at an altitude of 1.624 meters! The trail starts from the village of Hora and it usually lasts six hours. According to Homer, Poseidon once sat on this peak to observe the events of the Trojan War! The views from Feggari will definitely astonish you!

Mysteries, Mysteries and Mysteries: Cabeirian Mysteries of Samothrace

Like the Eleusinian mysteries, the mysteries of the Great Gods of Samothrace were highly respected in the ancient world of the Mediterranean. Cabeiroi were mystic divinities occurring in various regions of the ancient world. The Sanctuary of the Great Gods was considered as one of the most important religious centres of the country, respected and protected until the end of the 4th century AD. The character, identity and meaning of these divinities are still uncertain, as it has been traced to the majority of the languages of the East. In the case of Samothrace, the Cabeiroi were twin gods who presided over the orgiastic dances of the mysteries of Samothrace. The mysteries were performed in honour of the goddesses Demeter, Hecate and Persephone. The secret of the mysteries of Samothrace has been kept, as little historical evidence exist in the modern world. The mysteries of Samothrace did not publish the exact names of their gods; they rather inscribed them as Great Gods. During the classical years of the culture of Greece, the mysteries of Kabeiroi remained popular, although little was entrusted in writing.

Observing like an Olympian God on the Island of the Great Gods

Head to the village of Prophet Elias to admire the panoramic views towards the islands of Imvros and Limnos and Mount Athos and hike up to the chapel of Panagia Krimniotissa to admire the views of the endless blue of the Aegean! If you are courageous enough, climb up to Mount Saos to witness one of the most beautiful views of the Aegean!

Participate in the Festival of Tsipouro

The Viticulture Association of Samothrace collects all the grape marcs of the island and produces tsipouro through their distillation. Every November, the local people organize the festival of Tsipouro in the settlement of Karyotes. The festival is accompanied from traditional dishes, wine, tsipouro and traditional music and dancing. If you want to attend the feast, there is an entrance fee.

Swimming in the Vathres of Samothrace

Swimming in the Vathes (Lakes formed from the waterfalls) is a must! The famous lakes reach the waterfalls and rivers of the island! This is perhaps the most unique experience of Samothrace! The easiest accessible Vathres begin from the Vathra of Fonias and Gria Vathra.

Stay Overnight at the Beach of Vatos

Lovers of camping and nature can stay overnight at the beach of Vatos and return to Hora the next day with the boat. The region is particularly interesting with imposing springs, beautiful caves and verdant vegetation!

Taste the Wild Goat Specialty of Samothrace

As there are approximately 100.000 goats living on the island, Samothrace is widely known for the delicious stuffed goat dish! The taverns of Prophet Elias village are known for this specialty!

Thermal Springs and Therapeutic Properties

Nature endowed the island with thermal springs with important therapeutic properties! The springs are appropriate for diseases including arthritis, arthropathy, gynaecological diseases and dermal diseases. Temperature fluctuates between 30 to 100 degrees of Celsius.

Visit the Private Folklore Museum of Maria Kerveri Kraouze

Every July, Maria Kerveri – Kraouze returns in Samothrace and operates her house as a private folklore museum. Exhibits include various utensils, numerous paintings and poems. Maria was born and raised in Samothrace; however, she now lives in Germany.

Photo Credits

×

Note: All the images are copyrighted from their owners. Please see Terms & Conditions. You can find the original images at the following links:

Chapel of Panagia Krimniotissa: MyPhotopic.blogspot.com

Endless Blue: Hellenic Canyoning Meeting

Feggari Saos: Christoph12345 by Flickr

Fonias River: Andreas Selisios by Wondergreece.com

Fonias Waterfall: Lefteris Nikitoglou by thelab.gr

Gria Gorge: Hellenic Canyoning Association

Hora: Shutterstock

Kipos beach: Agnee by Flickr

Kremasto Waterfall: Hellenic Canyoning Association

Mountain Saos: topgreekislands.com

Pahia Ammos beach: terrabook.com

Sanctuary of Great Gods: Shutterstock

Wild Beauty: Dimitris Siskopoulos by Flickr

Vathres: Shuttesrtock

View of Mount Saos: Efi by Flickr

Xirokambos waterfalls: Shuttesrstock