Samothrace

From the challenging mountain trails of Mount Saos or Fengari (the highest peak in the Aegean) to secret waterfalls and the living traditions of the Hora (the main town) … the energy of this island will sweep you off your feet, sometimes quite literally when the wind picks up. And when this island-mountain of the Northern Aegean is bathed in moonlight, enigmatic ancient riddles will come alive before your eyes. 

What to do on Samothrace

Winged Victory … Nike of Samothrace

In Paris’ Louvre museum, the statue of the Winged Victory of Samothrace stands tall and commanding, carved in Parian marble. The unbelievable details of the goddess of victory’s wings, outstretched in the exuberant act of rejoicing, and the creases and folds of her linen tunic are admired by all who see her. And on the island where she was carved, you feel the very same elemental forces that went into her creation and also inspired a more recent symbol of international pedigree, the Nike logo.

The Sanctuary of the Great Gods

As you enter today’s archaeological site of the Sanctuary of the Great Gods, your initiation begins. It is said gods of all descriptions, from home and further afield, concentrated their mystical energies on this one spot. And so, naturally enough, it was right here that enigmatic rites and rituals were performed in their honour. The deities made no distinctions among their earthbound acolytes … slave, king or queen, all were equal in their eyes and passed through the initiation. Today, it’s your turn.

Traditional Hora

The main town of Samothrace, hidden from pirates and winds in a valley below Mount Saos, treats you to its traditional imagery and authentic beauty. Tiled roofs, light bathing the narrow, winding streets and, above the rooftops, the stonework makes an excellent shield against the winds that sometimes whip up from the surrounding Northern Aegean.

A swim in the waterfalls

Are you ready to discover the hidden secrets of Mount Saos? You’ll find dozens of streams and footpaths in Samothrace. Within dense forests and across sweeping planes, there is a network of pathways and countless waterfalls and hot springs. Follow the sound of the water falling and you’ll happen upon a fairy tale. The water creates natural pools, known locally as vathres. You won’t be able to resist a cool, refreshing dip. 

Hidden gems of Samothrace

Holidays with action & adventure

If you love outdoor activities and wilderness adventures, this island is for you. Hiking, climbing and endless discovery await. At 1,600m above sea level, you can climb Mount Saos’s peak, Fengari, which shares its name with the Greek word for moon. But remember, Samothrace is a place of raw beauty, so keep an eye out for sudden changes in the weather.

The goats of Samothrace

You will see them everywhere, even on the road signs and in the trees. They live free and wild island staple, delicious when roasted on a spit or cooked a hundred other ways. 

The beaches of Samothrace

Not so well known but certainly not to be found wanting when it comes to natural beauty are Samothrace’s beaches. Among the standout beaches are Pahia Ammos (with its golden sand), Vatos (with its plane trees and cold, clear waters), Kremasto (with its waterfall that froths into the sea), and Kipo (with its grey-black pebbles).