Thassos is the most northerly island in the Aegean group lying just off the coast of mainland
Greece. Fabulously wealthy in ancient times, Thassos may now be outside the top league of
Greek islands but it still has a very great deal to offer the more discerning visitor. Much of Thassos archaeological heritage has unfortunately been lost, marble quarries still mar parts of the south and a few scars still remain of forest fires that have engulfed the island. However, a good road coastal circles the island of
Thassos giving easy access to some very fine beaches and splendid mountain forest villages. Dubbed the 'emerald isle' it is notably green, especially inland along forest tracks. Slightly off the main tourist trail, Thassos has escaped exploitation by the big package operators and, though some islanders have been tarting the place up with lorry loads of fake sand and imports of chip fat fryers, much remains authentic and charming. The island is small enough for any resort to be reached with a short drive, beaches are rarely crowded and the interior hills are cloaked in pine forest crisscrossed by walking paths
