Thasos Pearl of the Aegean Sea

Thasos, the green Greek island is the pearl of the Aegean Sea.

The island is world famous with its beaches, fascinating landscapes and archaeological treasures. Thasos history goes back to the ancient times when the island was famous for its gold mines and marble, which has been shipped in all Mediterranean ports.

Located in a short distance from the mainland, we reach Thasos by ferry from Keramoti.

Once arrived at the main town of Limenas we take the road to the southern part of the island. 

We get fascinated by the high mountains. Pine forest covers much of the island's slopes. The large swathes of olive trees additionally mark the picturesque area. 

Thasos is has many small, intimate, wonderful beaches: Potos, Alyki, Skala Prinos, Skala Potamia- which is the best beach of the island.

The fine white sand and crystal blue waters of the Aegean Sea, offer relaxation and the majestic pine mountains behind us create just a wonderful natural environment.

To get to know better the breathtaking natural environment, we take a trip around the island. Passing through the impressive beach of Alyki we arrive to one of the main attractions of Thasos, the monastery dedicated to the Archangel Michael.

The monastery is located southeast of the island and is built directly on the rocks. Today many visitors come to visit this splendid monastery and to worship the views above the sea.

Driving the coastal road, we arrive the town of Limenas. This is the capital of Thasos and is often called Thasos Town. The new town was built over the ancient city.

The archaeological museum is located in front of the agora. Here visitors can admire variety of ancient statues and relics from the Byzantine Empire. Here we also find pots, vessels, architectural drawings and old coins.

 

The ancient Limenas has expanded over the nearby hills and over a small area of the flat plane. Here the ancient Greeks built an amphitheater facing the sea and decorated it with nice marble statues.

Nowadays only the ruins remind of this magnificent amphitheater. Tourists can enjoy from here incredible views towards the harbor and the sea.

Going back to the city we stroll around the narrow streets. Food and drink products made in Thasos are produced with traditional methods: honey, marmalade, olives, natural cosmetic products. We choose them as perfect return gifts.

At the end of the long day, we try the local fish specialties and delicacies in one of the many taverns.

Our vacation in Thasos is  truly unique and unforgettable.

Madeira SmartTrip

One of the oldest fishing villages in Madeira is Câmara de Lobos. Located very close to Funchal, the area was first discovered by João Gonçalves Zarco and Tristão Vaz Teixeira. The explorers were impressed by the shape of the bay and the huge population of sea lions, living here. 

Nowadays Câmara de Lobos is a quiet village and a starting point for a tour around Madeira’s western region.

 

Coming from Funchal, we get fascinated by the breathtaking panoramic views. We take a break in the local restaurant and try the famous poncha drink.

This is the perfect place to admire the absolutely amazing atmosphere which has also inspired Winston Churchill to draw his famous picture.

Taking the road further towards the mountains, we go to Cabo Girão, which is the second highest cliff in the world. The windstorm up here and the magnificent views above the Atlantic are incredible.

Enjoyable views from the cliff`s edge which can be approached thanks to the transparent glass walkway.

The next stop of our journey is the small town of Ribeira Brava. Here we spend some relaxing hours walking along the promenade and tasting the local cuisine in one of the many small street restaurants.

The trip through the mountain reveals unforgettable views. This is the best way to enjoy serenity allied to local green landscapes…

…Flora

… and fascinating nature.

A very popular tourist destination on the north coast is the charming village of São Vicente, protected from the sea with a natural rocky wall. The village is famous with the black sand beach, crystal clear water and its tranquility.

This truly amazing west trip let us approach and admire the unique nature of this volcanic island.