Where’s Ofrynio Beach? Northern Greece’s hidden gem where British woman disappeared
Ongoing search at Ofrynio beach as mystery deepens over missing British woman last seen sunbathing Photograph: Nadja Abele/Alamy
While Greece is globally celebrated for its postcard-perfect islands like Santorini, Mykonos, and Corfu, the country’s northern coastline quietly holds its own treasures. Among them is Ofrynio Beach—a scenic stretch of sand kissed by the turquoise waters of the Strymonian Gulf. Known locally as Touzla, this peaceful beach is tucked between the regional hubs of Kavala and Serres, offering a more low-key escape compared to the country’s bustling tourist hotspots.
Now, with the mysterious disappearance of 59-year-old British woman Michele Bourda, Ofrynio Beach has become the focus of international attention. But long before the headlines, it was best known for its calm waters, local charm, and natural beauty.
Known Locally as Touzla — A Name With Ottoman Roots
Ofrynio Beach’s alternative name, Touzla, is a remnant of the Ottoman era. The word is derived from the Turkish word “tuz,” meaning salt — a nod to the area’s historical salt pans and trade significance. Today, the name is still used affectionately by locals and appears on some maps and signage.
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Strategically Positioned Between Kavala and Serres
Located roughly 80 kilometers southwest of Serres and just over 60 kilometers from Kavala, Ofrynio Beach sits at a quiet crossroads between two culturally rich Greek cities. Its location makes it easily accessible yet sufficiently removed from urban noise, offering the perfect backdrop for a laid-back summer.
A Stone’s Throw from the Ancient City of Amphipolis
Just inland from the beach lies Amphipolis, one of the most important archaeological sites in Northern Greece. This ancient Macedonian city dates back to 437 BC and was once a key Athenian colony. In recent years, Amphipolis gained renewed global interest after the discovery of the Kasta Tomb, an elaborate burial site believed to be linked to the era of Alexander the Great.
An Underrated Coastal Gem with Crystal-Clear Waters
Unlike Greece’s more commercialized beaches, Ofrynio maintains a sense of rustic charm. Its shoreline stretches for several kilometers, featuring fine golden sand, shallow, clear waters, and a relaxed atmosphere. It’s ideal for families, retirees, and anyone seeking serenity away from party scenes and cruise ship crowds.
A Favorite Among Balkan and Local Tourists
Though not widely known outside the Balkans, Ofrynio Beach is a popular holiday destination for tourists from Bulgaria, North Macedonia, and Serbia. Many drive in for extended summer stays, filling local guesthouses, apartments, and villas each year. Greek families from Thessaloniki, Kavala, and Serres also frequent the area, making it a true melting pot of summer visitors.
A Fishing and Boating Community
Small fishing boats can often be seen bobbing just off the coast, providing both fresh seafood and picturesque scenery. Local tavernas pride themselves on daily catches — from grilled sardines to calamari — often served just meters from where they were caught.
A Hub for Cultural Festivals and Summer Events
Despite its quiet reputation, Ofrynio comes alive in summer. Open-air concerts, panigyria (traditional Greek festivals), food fairs, and dance events bring together residents and visitors in celebration. These events showcase the region’s Macedonian heritage, folk music, and local cuisine — all under the summer stars.
Close to the Ecologically Rich Strymon River Delta
Nature lovers visiting Ofrynio can venture slightly inland to explore the Strymon River Delta, a Natura 2000-protected wetland teeming with wildlife. It’s a haven for birdwatchers, ecologists, and photographers, offering sightings of flamingos, herons, and rare migratory species.
A Place of Both Sunrise and Stillness
Ofrynio faces east, treating early risers to breathtaking sunrises over the Strymonian Gulf. The sea here is calm, especially in the morning, giving the impression of an endless mirror stretching to the horizon — an almost spiritual sight that locals say “heals the soul.”
Rapidly Growing, Yet Still Preserving Its Soul
Over the last decade, the area has experienced modest development. New guesthouses, beach bars, and private villas have sprung up, and tourism infrastructure has improved. However, Ofrynio still holds on to its small-town heart. Many establishments are family-run, and the pace of life remains slow and genuine — a key part of its charm.
A Paradise Now Shadowed by Uncertainty
The disappearance of Michele Bourda — a temporary resident of nearby Serres — has rattled this tight-knit community. Known for its safety and stillness, Ofrynio Beach has never faced such a chilling mystery. How someone could vanish in daylight, in a familiar and seemingly secure setting, remains unanswered.
Yet even amid the unfolding search, the beach continues to exude its usual beauty: sun umbrellas flutter in the breeze, children build sandcastles, and fishermen mend their nets. Life goes on — but with an undercurrent of worry.
