Rachoni

Rachoni in Thassos is a picturesque village at an altitude of 130 meters, located in the northwestern part of Thassos, opposite the village of Agios Georgios. This mountain village is 15km from Limenas and just 4km away from the sea.

The entire area of Rachoni extends to the northern part of the island and consists of four settlements - two mountainous, Rachoni and Agios Georgios, and two coastal, Skala Rachoni and the area of Pachis, near the cape sharing the same name.

Rachoni is literally perched on the ridge of Mount. Ipsario, from which it has actually taken its name (Rachoni in Greek means “Village on the ridge”). It is only 5 kilometers away from the port of Prinos and is the perfect place for those seeking peace and relaxation in a beautiful natural environment.

To reach Rachoni in Thassos, you can use the main island road and drive around the settlement, passing by the village’s church. You can come through the port of Skala Rachoni with its beautiful seafront, leaving Rachoni Bay with its endless sandy beach and picturesque fish taverns behind as you drive a little bit uphill.

In a 1519 census, Rachoni had 86 families. The original settlements were, of course, on higher grounds, as the inhabitants wanted to avoid pirate attacks. Limenas was then the most populous settlement, followed by Theologos, Kastro, Kallirachi, and Rachoni.

Over the years and with the elimination of piracy, locals moved a bit lower, creating the currently populated settlements. Today, Rachoni has about 726 inhabitants who are mainly engaged in olive oil production, beekeeping, and fishing. These people are a mix of local Thassians and English-speaking newcomers that reside on the island, fully integrated with the local population.

Rachoni of Thassos offers you a plethora of attractions. In the old village’s core, monastic properties of the Athonite State, the so-called "vakufia," coexist with impressive traditional mansions that dominate around the central square. The large centuries-old plane tree that generously shades the square is an ideal spot to relax and have something refreshing to drink.

At the edge of the village, the stone-built church of the Dormition of Theotokos dates back to the 19th century. This god-protected building impresses with its simplicity and the beauty of its architecture. The church is located in a captivating location, next to a stream, with plane trees surrounding it and waters running crystal clear from the spring under its Holy Table.

In every corner of Rachoni, you can discover cafes and taverns where you can taste the local cuisine and traditional products of Thassos.

The vibrant offerings of the sea meld harmoniously with the earthy flavors of local delicacies, creating a culinary symphony highlighted by the passion and affection the locals hold for their visitors. Their genuine warmth and hospitality infuse every bite, encapsulating the true essence of Thassos in every dish made. Explore beach taverns with fresh fish and seafood appetizers, accompanied by ouzo and a stunning sea view. What could be better, indeed, after a whole day at the beach?

Ascend to the village's summit, and you'll discover the cobblestone square - the perfect spot to savor a cup of coffee or a cooling refreshment. The experience becomes even more delightful when you go for one of the exquisite spoon sweets meticulously cooked up by the women of the village. These treats, renowned throughout the island, are the epitome of local culinary craftsmanship, making every visit a tasteful adventure.

Olives, olive oil, honey, and the walnut spoon sweet with flower honey are all traditional flavors worth trying.

From the heart of Rachoni, you are just a stone's throw away from the beautifully organized beaches of Skala Rachoni - Glyfoneri and Pachis being among the favorites. Once there, you can delve into a plethora of water sports. Whether it's zipping across the azure waters on water skis, feeling the wind in your hair with some air skiing, or experiencing the exhilarating thrill of a ride in a compact power airplane, the choice is all yours.

The crystal-clear sea at Skala Rachoni, with its fine golden sand and the mesmerizing view towards the North Aegean and the city of Kavala, creates a magical landscape. The waters in the area are completely safe and quite shallow, so they can easily become a pleasant swimming experience for everybody.

Taking a stroll through the natural tapestry surrounding Rachoni is just as mesmerizing. The area is adorned with an impressive array of flora that includes towering plane trees, ancient olive groves, bountiful fruit trees, various shrubs, and fragrant trees, making it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and hikers. The air is filled with Mediterranean scents of honeysuckle and jasmine that twine around the home courtyards. Additionally, the venerable olive trees, some of the oldest on Thassos, infuse a layer of historical significance into the area's raw, natural charm.

Rachoni of Thassos is a real paradise for lovers of nightlife as well. The nearby beach bars are famous for their wild summer parties and intense entertainment, offering party people unforgettable moments.

In Rachoni, live events also take place, from local traditional festivities, such as the feast of the 15th of August, where everybody gathers to pay tribute to the memory of the Virgin Mary, and the local women meticulously prepare and share the cherished traditional offerings named "kourbani" or "kloubani".

The annual carnival is another great opportunity to have fun, while other community events also witness notable engagement from both residents and vacationers.

Rachoni in Thassos and its seaside, Skala Rachoni, are excellent destinations to visit. These places charm visitors with their stunning beauty and array of activities. When you visit, you'll find relaxation and happiness in the unique blend of picturesque mountains, serene sea, and the locals' welcoming nature.