Halkidiki Holidays

Most of the tourist action happens on the peninsula of Kassandra. The resort of Sani may be purpose-built but it boasts a charming marina and a safe, Blue Flag beach so it has character in (buckets and) spades.

Hanioti too is popular for its Blue Flag beach and village feel. Kalithea also boasts beautiful beaches and a sophisticated nightlife.

The peninsula of Mount Athos is home to monks and is off-limits to women but if that doesn’t put you off you can admire its wild beauty from a boat.

Sithonia Peninsula has the area’s most stunning and unspoilt beaches, but the rugged and forested landscape means the area is less built up than tourist-friendly Kassandra.

As it’s only an hour’s trip away, most holidays in Halkidiki include a day trip to Greece’s second city Thessaloniki in the itinerary.

Ornate church spires dominate the landscape and the city is well known for its ancient sites, including the ruins of a Roman palace dating back to the 3rd century and the White Tower.

The restaurant-lined waterfront is a lovely place to stroll as you decide where to stop for lunch.

Aside from the plentiful opportunities to get out the buckets and spades and swim in the crystal-clear sea, holidays in Halkidiki have plenty to entertain the whole family.

There’s a good choice of diving and snorkeling centres and the area’s hotels and restaurants tend to be child-friendly.

Waterland waterpark is a great day out. Wave pools, slides and water rides all await you.

If you’re feeling daring, dive into the watersports available at the seaside town of Hanioti.

This picturesque village has heaps of activities worth making a splash about, from windsurfing and water-skiing to scuba diving and parasailing.

If you’re looking for a calmer ride across the waves, hire a pedalo and soak up the stunning views.

Visit the attractive village of Stagira, where the evergreen paths lead to the rock chapel of the Virgin Mary the Spilotissa, built in 1814.

It’s also the birthplace of Aristotle, whose statue takes pride of place, surrounded by monuments. For lovers of history, a visit to the ancient city of Olynthos is a must, where you also get a glimpse of original Greek mosaic flooring.

Halkidiki is home to several Byzantine towers. Browse ancient artefacts at the 14th century Pyrgos Prosforeiou museum in a restored tower at Ouranoupoli.

See where rebellious islanders once barricaded themselves against their enemies. The old water mills on the slopes of the Tower of Galatista at the centre of the city are also worth putting on your checklist.

Halkidiki’s middle peninsula Sithonia has been famous for its wines throughout the ages. The mix of undulating vineyards, beautiful olive groves and stunning views out across the Aegean Sea makes this a picture-perfect spot.

Besides wine tasting at an organic vineyard, sample some local cheeses and stop at a local taverna for a lesson in how to cook fish the traditional way.