Limenaria

Limenaria is a cosmopolitan coastal village on the southwestern shore of Thassos, located 38 kilometers from Limenas. It is the second-largest city in Thassos and counts almost 2500 permanent residents. Renowned for its unique and large beaches with turquoise waters and green hills background, Limenaria combines natural sea and mountainous beauty. Once a hub for ore mining, this town has since evolved into one of Thassos’s prime tourist destinations, offering visitors a unique blend of traditional Greek cuisine and many leisure activities.

To get to Limenaria Thassos, travelers have various transportation options tailored to different preferences and budgets. One of the most practical ways is by car. After docking at Limenas Thassos, visitors can rent a car, and from there, a 45-minute drive leads directly to Limenaria. On the other hand, if your ferryboat arrives at Skala Prinos, the distance is smaller, just a 30-minute drive.

Alternatively, for those not keen on driving, taxis are available all over the island and provide direct routes to Limenaria from any village or beach. This option may be expensive, depending on the distance involved. 

The bus (KTEL) is more budget-conscious, and the central bus station is located in Limenas Thassos. Buses to Limenaria operate throughout the day, but travelers should be aware of the timetable to plan their journey effectively, especially if they’re on a tight schedule or not planning an extended stay in the village. Bus routes from Limenas, Potos, and Theologos to Limenaria start around 6.00 a.m. until 4.00 p.m., except for the last one from Theologos to Limenaria, which starts around 2.00 p.m.

In the early 20th century, the emerging town of Limenaria transformed when the German company, “Speidel,” started its mining operations on the rich reserves of cadmium and zinc. This mining boom attracted workers from the mountainous village of Kastro, seeking better fortunes. 

Additionally, the Treaty of Lausanne brought Greek refugees from Asia Minor, infusing Limenaria with their culture and history. They established Kalivia, a small settlement, which now is not easily distinguished from Limenaria because the two villages merged. The word Kalivia originates from the Greek word “καλύβα” which means “hut.” Hence, its name is actually “the village with the huts.”

On Limenaria’s eastern cliff, Palataki (Little Palace), a symbol of the mining industry in Limenaria built in 1903, served as the headquarters for the “Speidel” company and managed the local quarry. Its walls ceased echoing the bustle of administrative activities in 1963 when it was shut down and abandoned. Despite multiple restoration efforts over the years, Palataki remains a shadow of its former self, bearing silent witness to the passage of time and preservation challenges.

Close by, Limenaria’s Folklore Museum stands as a testament to the town’s past. Managed by the local cultural organization, “Kastro,” this small museum provides visitors with a journey through time. Its exhibits showcase traditional objects that once belonged to the town’s residents, tools of local professions, household items that narrate everyday life, and beautifully preserved traditional costumes, a glimpse into the fashion and aesthetics of past eras. During summer nights, museum members organize musical and theatrical performances that anyone can attend and enjoy.

In Limenaria Thassos, every corner holds a promise: Imagine sailing on the deep blue Aegean waters with a rental boat, admiring a beautiful sunset in a beach bar, or wandering around the village’s vibrant streets with traditional shops, cafes, and high-quality restaurants. If your sea spirit calls you, the large Limenaria beach, as well as Tripiti, Pefkari, and Metalia beaches, await you for water activities and the relaxing experiences of a lifetime. Last but not least, for those who love to party, beach bars pulsate with music all day, and Potos is within a 5-10 minutes drive distance.

If you own a boat, Marina Limenaria is a perfect sailing destination in North Greece for those who want to spend quality time during their holidays. In Marina Limenaria, you can dock small and big boats as well and discover nearby sandy beaches with turquoise waters during the day and local delicacies and gastronomy during the night.

Limenaria, blessed with a gentle climate, has blossomed into a cherished holiday spot with its captivating coastlines and the tavernas serving fresh fish, local seafood, and authentic Greek dishes, many of which are served beautifully by the sea. A walk through Limenaria’s streets reveals the true essence of Thassian charm. Don’t miss it!