Alyki

The majestic natural scenery of the twin coves of Alyki remains timelessly prominent as a tourist symbol of Thassos. Along the indented coastline, a rocky peninsula full of pine trees emerges from the turquoise sea. It is connected to the mainland by a narrow strip of land forming, on either side, the famous coves of Alyki.

Here lie the remains of the ancient quarry whose famous snow-white marbles had been carved by experienced sculptors and then embellished cities from Classical Athens to the most far-flung corners of the Roman Empire. On the far western end of the peninsula, we can still peer into the crystal waters and discern the remnants of the quarrying process of this well-known rock.

The south cove hosts in front of its coast the remains of ancient temples dedicated to the Dioscuri and Apollo. The tourist center of the area, however, is the west cove with a fully-organized beach, very popular fish-taverns and a mini-market.

The site is located on the southeast side of the island, 32 km away from the main port. During the summer, swarms of tourists descend upon the area not only out of archaeological interest but also to enjoy swimming in the most picturesque beach of the island. Due to the large extent of the archaeological sites, the region is sparsely settled. Thus, most visitors are only able to have daily excursions to Alyki, regarding the few people who manage to find accommodation here as lucky.

Visitors can get to Alyki by car, taxi or the frequent bus routes. The ring road “Around the island” runs along the beach, providing easy access. The closest villages are Skala Potamias (18 km) to the east and Potos (24 km) to the west. At these spots, vacationers can complement their purchases, perform financial transactions through ATMs, tank up at the gas stations or enjoy a more intense nightlife.

The closest tourist attractions are the exotic beach “Paradissos” (9 km) of fine sand and turquoise waters, “Gkiola” (9,7 km), a famous natural pool of seawater and the Convent of Archangel Michael (5 km), which offers a breathtaking spectacle. Built on the edge of a cliff overlooking the sea, the monastery appears to be floating between the light-blue of the sky and the deep blue of the sea.