By Nicolas Bard

Samothraki is a special island that stands out for both its rich history and its great natural beauty. Scattered all over the island you will find many well -hidden treasures that will enchant you from the first moment. One of these treasures is the chapel of Our Lady of Krimniotissa, which is undoubtedly one of the most distinctive sights of the entire Samothrace.

This picturesque chapel is built on the edge of a steep cliff, from which it was named. It is nestled among high rocks with a few pine trees and seems to be hovering over the beach of Pachia Ammos. From there you will have an incredible view throughout the North Aegean, and is the best place to enjoy a magnificent sunset.

According to tradition, the icon of the Virgin Mary of Krimniotissa was found by shepherds during the Iconoclasm near Pachia Ammos and was transferred to a cave to protect it. In the following days, however, the image disappeared and was always on the edge of that cliff. Then the islanders decided to build a small church at this point to house the image. At the same time they carved 50 steps on the rock to facilitate the access of the faithful to the church.

Today many travelers are uphill the rock to see this chapel close, to worship and enjoy the beautiful natural landscape, as well as the panoramic views of the sea. To go to the chapel, just before you reach Pachia Ammos you will turn around the concrete road about 3 kilometers that opens to your left. It is one of the excursions worth doing if you are on the island.

Very close to the chapel is the popular beach of Pachia Ammos, which stands out for its golden sand and its calm, crystal clear waters, as it is protected by the strong winds. The road leading to the beach needs a little attention, but the landscape will reward you in the best way. There are two catering stores today, which also offer shade with umbrellas and sun loungers, but you can choose to sit somewhere more secluded to enjoy the dives with your quiet.

The authentic and unpretentious beauty of the area will seduce you, and you will get a solid dose of a Greece that tends to disappear once and for all. The trip to Samothrace is an unforgettable travel experience.