Greek Sun Holidays

Overview

Three fingers of land separated by two massive, horseshoe-shaped bays form the peninsular known as Halkidiki. It is a region vastly rich in beautiful landscapes, attractive coastlines, quaint villages and a powerful, historical past. The western prong, known as Kassandra, contains the most tourist development whilst Sithonia, the central finger of land, is less developed. Athos is the furthest east and is home to the holy mountain of the same name where monasteries occupy remote locations on high cliffs. From our accommodation bases on Kassandra and Sithonia or as part of a separate fly-drive itinerary, it is also possible to visit the northern region of Halkidiki, a vast area that lies between Thessaloniki and the Halkidiki peninsulars. The traditional village of Arnea and the main town of the region Polygyros, both of which nestle close to the Holomondas mountains that rise to 1165 metres are included in this programme. With wonderful views, dense forests and a variety of national parks, this is an area of outstanding beauty.

Kassandra

As we say, this is the most popular region of Halkidiki in terms of numbers of visitors with the east coast being the busier of the two. We have steered clear of the mass market tourist areas and chosen the charming east coast village of Afitos as our base, a village that has retained its allure and character and is one of Halkidiki’s most traditional villages. Within the cobbled streets of Afitos one will find the temple of Ammon Zeus Dionysos, a Byzantine church and plenty of tavernas and cafes with excellent views across to Sithonia with the summit of Mount Athos visible on a clear day. A sandy beach is located about 10 minutes’ walk from the centre of the village. It is possible to visit all the attractions of Kassandra from Afitos. Numerous sandy beaches, a wine factory and the natural hot baths of the spa town Loutra are all within range.

Sithonia

More rugged, better cultivated and less developed than Kassandra, the pine forested slopes, olive carpeted coastal groves and small sandy inlets of Sithonia bestows the area a completely different feel to its western neighbour. Both the accommodation bases we have chosen are located on the west coast. Nikiti, the more northerly of the two, has two very different parts. To the western side of the coastal road lie the long sandy beach and a wide selection of cafes, restaurants and tavernas. By contrast, time in the eastern, original and traditional part of the village seems to stand still. Our accommodation is located at nearby Akti Elia beach. Our second base is Neos Marmaras, located further south on the west coast. This small fishing port has a fine selection of cafes and tavernas and a small, sandy beach. The longer sandy beach of Paradissos is about 15 minutes’ walk away. Like Kassandra, it is possible to drive around the peninsular from both our bases. The eastern coastline is very undeveloped but it is possible to take daily excursions from Agios Nikolaos to view the monasteries of Mount Athos from the sea.

Twin centre and Combinations:

Halkidiki can be combined with Athens, Chios, Crete, Lemnos, Lesvos, Mykonos, Rhodes, Samos and Santorini. It is possible to arrange two centre holidays combining Kassandra and Sithonia. A stay in Thessaloniki itself can also be arranged.

Car Hire:

Car hire is included in the cost of your holiday. If you would prefer to have transfers, please contact us for the adjustment in price.