Essential Guide to Exploring Samothrace by Motorhome or Camper Van in 2025
- Maia
- May 4
- 2 min read
Samothrace is a remote, mystical island in the North Aegean Sea, famed for its wild beauty, sacred waterfalls, ancient ruins, and unspoiled landscapes. It's a place that draws nature lovers, free spirits, and alternative travelers—including those exploring Greece with motorhomes or camper vans. However, visitors must be aware that free camping is strictly prohibited under Greek law, and Samothrace has limited infrastructure for camper tourism.
Since March 2025, Law 5170/2025 has made it illegal across Greece to park or stay overnight in camper vans, motorhomes, or similar vehicles on beaches, forested areas, archaeological sites, Natura 2000 zones, and any public space not explicitly licensed for such use. This applies to all forms of unauthorized camping, even short stays, and includes any sign of setting up camp—awnings, cooking gear, tables, or outdoor furniture. Fines range from €300 to €3,000, and repeat offenders may face criminal prosecution with up to three months’ imprisonment.
On Samothrace, the only legally authorized camping facility is Camping Varades—a peaceful, tree-shaded campground located approximately 5 km east of the main port (Kamariotissa), on the coastal road to Therma. It offers limited camper van spaces, basic amenities, and direct access to the sea. Due to high demand, especially during July and August, it is highly recommended that travelers check out the business in advance to avoid being turned away.
Camping Varades – Official Contact Info:
Facebook: facebook.com/campingvarades
Phone: +30 25510 41303
Email (as listed online): camping.varades@gmail.com
Location: Varades Beach, Samothraki, Greece
If no space is available, there are no legal alternatives on the island for camper overnight stays. Parking within villages or roadside areas is subject to strict regulation: under Article 34 of the Greek Traffic Code (Law 2696/1999), motorhomes may be parked for a maximum of 24 hours in legal parking spots without any signs of camping activity. Overnight stays near the port, the waterfalls of Fonias and Gria Vathra, mountain trails, or beaches (e.g., Pachia Ammos) are patrolled and penalized by local authorities.
Additionally, hosting a motorhome on private land (e.g., someone’s field or yard) is only allowed if completely non-commercial (no rent, no barter), and for just one vehicle. Offering paid accommodation for campers without a legal tourism license is considered illegal and subject to heavy fines.
These regulations are designed to protect the fragile ecosystems of Samothrace and Greece overall, prevent pollution of its pristine rivers and forests, and avoid overcrowding of public and sacred spaces. The island has suffered in the past from unmanaged tourism, and the local community—deeply connected to the land—has asked for stronger enforcement to preserve its character.
Plan responsibly. Book your stay early. Respect the island and its people.
To stay informed, consult:
Hellenic Government Gazette (www.et.gr)
Hellenic Ministry of Tourism (mintour.gov.gr)
Municipality of Samothraki (www.samothraki.gr)
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