Samothraki Delights – The Fonias Gorge

Category: A private, curated walking tour through the most iconic part of Samothraki, the Fonias Gorge. The Fonias Gorge is a spectacular natural miracle, surrounded by lush vegetation. A unique wellbeing experience healing body and mind simultaneously!

Description: Our meeting point is at the parking lot of the Fonias Gorge entrance, located at the north-east of Samothraki (around 10 km from Kamariotissa). Fonias is the most prominent river of Samothraki and a unique natural attraction. The Fonias Gorge starts approximately 700m higher at an area called “Kleidi” or “Kleidosi”. Fonias flows into the Thracian Sea, next to the byzantine Fonias Tower. Fonias in Greek means “killer” as many sheep and goats perished in its flooded waters.  As the wild river flows down the gorge it forms uncountable deep natural stone-carved water pools, the so called “vathres”. The word vathres became synonymous with Samothraki, associating freshness and overall wellbeing. There are several other rivers with vathres in Samothraki.

Starting our relatively easy walking tour next to the riverbank in the shadow of centuries old plane trees we keep admiring the astonishing biodiversity of the Fonias Gorge. After approximately 45’, some stops for pictures and paying our tribute to the lavish nature, we will encounter the noise of the first Fonias waterfall. As the waterfall is somehow hidden behind a giant roc, we will continue a few meters on a steep trail (via ferrata) for assessing its splendour, beauty and energy. This 35m high, emblematic waterfall plunges dramatically into a crystal-clear pool, creating a mesmerizing but serene setting. Now is the time for taking the most iconic pictures of our walking tour. Enjoy the lush landscape and do not miss the opportunity to enter the cool and refreshing river water. Time for a memorable swim against the powerful waterfall! Once you enter the vathra, you may decide to take an unforgettable shower and massage of your body provided you can balance yourself by staying on the underwater rocs. This is a truly unique and unforgettable experience!

The greatness of Fonias, its lavish nature and blissful vathres are almost endless. However, it is about time to return to our starting point full of energy and wellbeing. Not to forget the iconic pictures and selfies you produced during our walking tour! No doubt, the Fonias Gorge is an overwhelming and lingering experience for the rest of our lives!

Meeting point: Parking lot at the Entrance of Fonias Gorge

Duration: 2 1/2 hours (approx.)

Includes: Curated and guided walking tour

What to bring: Fair physical condition, comfortable outfit, walking or hiking shoes, personal protective gear (e.g. hat, suncream), swimsuits, towel, snacks and drinking water. Hiking poles optional.

Languages spoken: GR, ENG, FR, DE, IT

Service period: June to October

Price: € 190 (incl. VAT) up to 5 persons. For larger groups different arrangements are made.

Optional additional service: Transfer to and from Fonias Gorge for €15 per person.