Cove after cove and hidden treasures in Halkidiki

• Cosmopolitan Kassándra

According to mythology, Kassándra, the first peninsula of Halkidiki, was the site of the mythical Clash of the Titans. Today, Kassándrais one of Greece’s most modern tourist resorts. You can find some of the largest hotel complexes in the country here, with amenities of the highest quality, such as golf courses, marinas and spas. You can also enjoy gourmet meals prepared by renowned chefs.

If you like things a bit more organised on the beach, Cassandra is the place for you! It’s also home to some of Greece’s best known beach bars. Keep a note of these places: Floyitá,Áthytos,Kallithéa,Hanióti, Kryopiyi,Polýhrono,Pefkohóri,Palioúri,Posídi,Síviri,Sáni,Potidea!All of them have beaches to die for with the trendiest beach bars. If you need a bit of peace and quiet after a dancing session, hop in a car and discover some of the area’s untouched beaches. There’s no better way to recharge your batteries ready for the next party!

Those who are into hectic nightlife scenes might like to know that the Kallithéa area is home to some of the biggest best bars in Greece, while just about anywhere in Halkidiki you’ll find some nice quiet little bar which is just perfect to kick off your evening in.

• Beautiful Sithonia

The second leg of Halkidiki, Sithonía, is home to the ancient city of Olynthus with its unique mosaics. It also has beaches that will take your breath away! The vegetation on Sithoníais dense. The forests – pine chiefly – reach down to the beaches –a real treat for the senses.

There is a good balance of facilities for tourists in Sithonía. There are plenty of campsites but, in addition, visitors will also find superb major hotel complexes. Most beaches offer facilities such as umbrellas but there are plenty of others hidden away which have escaped any residential development. Wander from beach to beach, beating your own well-worn path. You’ll find creek after creek with turquoise water, white sand and stunning underwater landscapes. AktiKaloyriás, Spathiés, Eliá, Lagomándra, Marmarás, Toróni, Tristiníka, Porto Koufó, Kalamítsi, Platanítsi, Kavourótrypes, Armenistís, AktíZográfou, ÓrmosPanayiás, Vourvouroú and Pyrgadíkiaare just some of the unique beaches you will find in Sithonia.

Take a look at some of the beaches further east in Halkidiki too in the Ouranoúpoli area at the start of the third “leg” and don’t forget the outstanding beaches at NéaRóda and Ierissós.

Check out:

The refreshing red and white wines

Tsipouro - the intoxicating (in all senses of the word!) local spirit

Delicious locally produced cheese

Scrumptious jams

Honey (it does you good too!)

Wherever you decide to spend your holiday in Halkidiki, one thing’s certain – you will admire the area’s beauty and character. Its unique landscape combined with its traditional villages and the welcoming hospitality of the locals will win you over for sure.

Source: visitgreece.gr