Free Camping in Samothraki

Free camping on Samothraki: what is allowed now

For years, Platia, a plane-tree forest by the sea near Therma, was where people came to camp for free, often for weeks. It was never a licensed campsite, and since the summer of 2025 it is no longer run as one: the municipality did not re-lease its canteen, and fines have been issued to campers.

Can I camp for free?

No. Wild camping is illegal everywhere in Greece: on beaches, in forests, at archaeological sites and in public spaces. Under Law 5170/2025, fines start at €300 per person and can reach €3,000. The Municipality of Samothraki restated the ban in August 2026.

Where to camp instead: Varades

Varades is the island’s only licensed campsite, on the north coast near Therma, 1 km from the Fonias trail. It belongs to the municipality and is run by a local social cooperative.

• Open from 15 May to 30 September. No booking needed.
• About 105 pitches for tents, caravans and motorhomes, many shaded, by the sea.
• Hot showers, toilets, electricity, a fridge for campers and a café.
• The island bus stops at the gate.

Campervans

You may sleep in a legally parked vehicle. Outside a campsite, don’t put out an awning, tables or chairs, and never park overnight on beaches or in the forest.

Camping well

• Never light a fire outdoors: in summer the island’s forests burn easily.
• Keep soap and sunscreen out of the rivers and the vathres (rock pools).
• Take all your rubbish with you.

Near Varades

The trail to the Fonias waterfalls starts about 1 km away, and the hot springs at Therma are about 3 km west.

Getting there

Take the ferry from Alexandroupolis to Kamariotissa, then the island bus towards Therma; it stops at the campsite gate. More in how to get to Samothraki.

Checked in October 2026 against Greek law 5170/2025 and the Municipality of Samothraki’s announcement (August 2026).