Cassandra or Sithonia which is better reviews. What is Athos

“Two residents of Thessaloniki go to heaven after death. Looking around.
- Pretty, huh?
“Yes, it’s good here, of course, but you can’t compare it with Halkidiki.”
Greek joke
One of the most picturesque places in Greece is undoubtedly the peninsula of Halkidiki, which has a bizarre shape, due to which it is often called the “trident of Poseidon”.

An ancient legend says that two titans, Siton and Athos (Athos), fought among themselves for the beautiful nymph Pallini. The noise of the fight woke Poseidon and in anger he threw his trident. Thus, three elongated peninsulas-“fingers” were formed in the Aegean Sea: Pallini, Sithonia and Athos, separated by two bays with the purest, turquoise water. Pallini was subsequently renamed after King Cassander in the 4th century. BC e.

By virtue of such geographical feature the sea between the “fingers” is almost always calm, and if sometimes it happens to blow a strong wind from one side, then on the other side of the peninsula the water will be like a mirror. Therefore, advice: we follow the wind, take a car and move to the appropriate, calm side. Closer to the tip of the coast "fingers" become more relief, forming many small and large bays, passing one into another. They became calling card Halkidiki - with white or yellow sand, in some places framed by bizarre stones. The sea in them plays in the sun with all shades of turquoise. And above all this splendor - coniferous forests that stretch along the entire coast. The terrain in Halkidiki is quite mountainous, the farther, the more.

There are no large industrial cities and large ports in Halkidiki, and small fishing villages and villages are located along the coast. And, of course, there are many hotels for every taste and budget.

The most touristic “finger” is Kassandra. Most of the hotels and villages with the corresponding developed infrastructure are located here. Long sandy beaches with a variety of beach bars attract fashionable music and cocktails. The relaxed audience on sun loungers by night is replaced by moonlight disco lovers - Kassandra lives in this rhythm all summer long.
In Sithonia, on the contrary, there is a nature reserve, there are very few hotels, lovers of peace and solitude, nature and relaxation in apartments and villas come here. And also camping. The latter are predominantly Greeks and Europeans. Sacrificing the comfort of five-star hotels, they know that they win in return - many campsites in Sithonia are located in the most breathtaking bays with magnificent views.

Campsites Vourvourou.

The road from Sithonia to the third "finger" is rather winding, civilization finally gives way to virgin nature: pine forests, heather bushes, fishing villages in cozy bays. This is Athos (as it is commonly called in Russian, but in Greek they say Athos (Athos) or Agion Oros (Agion Oros, Holy Mountain), due to the fact that most of this peninsula is occupied by an independent monastic republic.
It is useless to argue which of the beaches of Halkidiki is the best - in terms of taste and color ... However, choose for yourself.

The beaches of Kassandra.

Most popular tourist place here is the village of Hanioti. The beach in the part where the main hotels are concentrated is a narrow strip of sand mixed with pebbles. In its central part, three meters from the shore, a stone slab lies in the water along the beach. It's okay, but the plate is rather slippery due to small algae growing on it. Therefore, it is better to swim in rubber slippers. But what a beauty! And the kids in shallow water expanse. The beaches in Chanioti are equipped with umbrellas and sun loungers. You can rent a jet ski for 20 euros per hour, a rowboat or a pedal catamaran. Along the beach there are many taverns where you can have lunch, and cafes where you can order any drinks.
And if you walk to the left or right of the central beach, then there will be much less people, and there will be no plates in the water.

Cassandra. Beach in Kallithea.

The central city beach of Chanioti. Village Chanioti located on the northern side of the Kassandra peninsula. The dark stripe behind the motorcycle is just a stone slab. Cross it, and you will find soft sand under your feet.

All beaches in municipal, i.e. there are no private or hotel beaches. In Chanioti, the beaches are equipped with umbrellas and sunbeds. This pleasure is paid.

When the sea is stormy, it is covered with white lambs. A strong wind blows and it becomes uncomfortable to swim. tourist season in Halkidiki begins on May 1, but the bathing one - a little later. Up to 23 degrees, the water warms up by the beginning (if you're lucky) or by the middle of June.

Beach in the village of Pefkohori (immediately after Chanioti). Sandy and pebbly, in the central part of the village - narrow, sun loungers rest directly on the embankment, on which there are many taverns and cafes. However, walking along the sea in any direction from the center of the village, you can find more pleasant, wide and not at all crowded beaches. Pefkohori stretches along the sea for 3 km.

One more is enough popular place recreation on Kassandra is the village of Polychrono, it is located in front of Chanioti. The Polychrono is not inferior to the latter in size. There are also many hotels, taverns and all kinds of souvenir shops. The place is quite popular with tourists. The beach here is sandy mixed with small, not sharp pebbles.

Paliouri beach

Beach on the northeast side, at the tip of the first "finger". The place is called Paliouri. Not every tourist will get here. But whoever does this will see a completely different Cassandra. dense forests, quiet coves and the best fish taverns of the peninsula, away from the well-trodden mass tourist routes.

And this is a wild beach in Paliouri. Swimming here is inconvenient, a lot of sharp stones. Unless you sunbathe alone or swim in a boat.

Southwest side of Kassandra. Beach in the village of Loutra. In this place, the beaches are sandy and pebbly, but the entry into the sea is good. Among these stones it is nice to retire and bask in the sun. The village of Loutra is small, there are not many people. The famous thermal springs of Agia Paraskevi are located nearby.

The beaches of Kassandra

They are very varied. At the end of the "finger" the road leads to the right and, once on the western part of the peninsula, we continue to move along the sea.

On some beaches, during a storm, the water in the sea becomes not quite clean and a lot of algae is thrown ashore by the wave. After a storm, they are regularly cleaned.
Spit, located near the village of Possidi - especially for lovers of endlessly long and wide sandy beaches. Only the sea and sand as far as the eye can see. Be aware that it is often windy here.

The beaches of Sithonia.

On the second "finger" there are a total of about 80 beaches, large and small, known to everyone and hard to reach, only for the initiated. We can say that Sithonia starts from the village of Nikiti. After it, a fork in which we decide where to go - to the western or eastern part of the peninsula.
The first beach on the western side of Sithonia is the famous Agios Ioannis, where there are almost never waves and there are as many as three beach bars. Periodically, nightly concerts of Greek pop stars are held there.

Metamorfosi beach. The bottom on the beach in Metamorfosi is quite rocky in places, which cannot but please lovers of snorkelling.

Sandy beach in Sithonia

Wild pebble beach in Sithonia

On the extreme left side of the beach there are interesting thickets and stones for lovers of snorkeling and fishing.

The water here is very clean.

Driving along the coast of Sithonia in the area of ​​Neos Marmaras, you will come across such thickets of coniferous trees on a steep coast. And down there are secluded sandy beaches. The inaccessibility is redeemed by the opportunity to enjoy this incredible beauty alone.

The sand in Toroni, especially in its right bay, has an incredibly rich yellow color and a very pleasant texture. You can arrange the perfect SPA foot massage right on the beach.

Beach in the bay of Porto Koufo. Naturally formed and almost closed bay, tightly, so to speak, even the sound of the sea is almost never heard. Hence the name (“koufos” in the translation from Greek - deaf), “deaf port”, Porto Koufo. From ancient times to this day, it has been an ideal natural marina for yachts and ships.

Marvelous beautiful beach in the northeastern part of Sithonia, c. There are very cozy bays here, and the water is crystal clear and warms up well in early June. You can rent a jet ski or a catamaran, there is a diving club. And right next to the beach there are taverns.
"The best of the best" - the beaches of the eastern side of the peninsula, some of them - overlooking Mount Athos directly opposite. The famous Armenistis, Portokali, Kavourothripes and many others... Words lose their power here, this must be seen!
Beaches at the base of the "third" finger.
All the beaches of this peninsula are located on both sides of it, but up to the border with St. Athos, located in the town of Ouranoupolis. Wide and long Trani Ammuda with soft sand is located on the inner side of the "finger" - it is never crowded on it

And of course the famous Caridi Beach in Vourvourou. However, there are more and more people here every season, so you should pay attention to the neighboring beaches, as well as the islands of the Diaporos group opposite. In the village there is a rental of boats and water bikes. Along the entire coast of the village of Vourvourou, it is rather shallow, so the water near the coast warms up very early.

Among all this diversity, it is impossible to give the palm to any one beach, and this is not necessary. It is fair to say that among the locals there are not so many connoisseurs of all the hidden places and paths to the coveted "piece of paradise". However, we hope that this article will help a little to figure out which direction to go for you.

Marina Donskaya, an individual guide to Halkidiki, will help you to see all this beauty This email address is being protected from spambots. You must have JavaScript enabled to view.

Halkidiki is a real paradise garden of Greece, which tourists love for its combination of luxurious beaches, the purest sea, developed infrastructure and historical monuments. Nature has endowed the peninsula with lush forests and many herbs that fill its air with healing aromas. And Halkidiki owes its popularity to its good location and well-established flight program. This allows the peninsula to receive hundreds of thousands of tourists during the summer season.

Geography of Halkidiki and how to get there

The peninsula is well recognizable on the map of Greece. Its shape resembles a trident, consisting of three peninsulas - Athos, Cassandra and Sithonia. To get to Halkidiki, you need to get to the nearest big city Thessaloniki. From May to early October it accepts charters from many Russian regions. From Moscow all year round there are regular flights.

Climate of Chalkidiki

The peninsula has a mild climate, and even at the height of summer the heat is easier to bear than on the most southern islands Greece. The average July temperature is +30°C, the water in the peak season warms up to +26°C. You can swim comfortably in Halkidiki from the end of May to the end of September, although in some years the weather allows you to swim in early October.

Each of the three "fingers" of the peninsula has its own characteristics:

• Cassandra- the most popular peninsula, which has a lot of hotels for every taste, taverns, nightclubs and shops. Despite its popularity, even in the high season it will not be difficult to find a secluded place on Kassandra or calm beach for family vacation. Among the resorts of the peninsula, Kallithea with excellent sandy beaches is especially popular, Paralia Dionisiou is a place for a relaxing holiday, lively Chanioti and Pefkohori with beautiful pine groves;
• Sithonia- a peninsula that is ideal for a relaxing holiday, including with children. There are fewer hotels, and therefore fewer tourists. The beaches of the peninsula are picturesque secluded bays. Among the resort villages of Sithonia, the village of Vourvourou with an exotic coast, the lively Neos Marmaras and Nikiti, a small but developed town with beautiful beaches, stand out;
• Athos- a peninsula, mainly known for the mountain of the same name and the monastic state. However, part of Athos is designed for recreation: there are comfortable hotels, shops and entertainment for children. On this peninsula, tourists are welcomed by the city of Ouranoupolis with clean, safe beaches and several attractions.

Also in Halkidiki, in addition to the villages on three "fingers", there is a popular tourist town of Nea Kallikratia. It is located just 30 km from Thessaloniki. Nea Kallikratia is known for its many entertainment venues and variety of fur products.

Attractions in Halkidiki

One of the reasons to visit Halkidiki is Holy Athos, known as the only monastic autonomy in the world. To date, there are 20 monasteries, several sketes and hundreds of different buildings here: from hermit huts to isolated cells. Among the important relics that are stored on Mount Athos, the belt of the Most Holy Theotokos, the relics of saints, numerous miraculous icons and the Gifts of the Magi stand out. There are two ways to see this with your own eyes. Men can get a special visa and make a pilgrimage to the Holy Mountain. And women are allowed to view Athos only from the sea - special cruises are organized in Halkidiki.

Also on Athos it is worth seeing the tower of Prosphoria. This is the main attraction of Ouranoupoli, built by the Byzantines from stones and cobblestones. It was intended for the monks who managed the courtyard of the Vatopedi monastery on Mount Athos. And today the halls of the Prosphoria are used for exhibitions.

Not far from the village of Petralona is the famous Petralona Cave. This is one of the most important attractions in Halkidiki, created by nature itself. The cave, decorated with stalagnates, has underground galleries - they are open to the public. In the 1960s, archaeologists managed to discover a skeleton in the Petralona cave ancient man and many artifacts. On the basis of what was found near the cave, an Anthropological Museum was opened, worth a visit.

Ancient monuments are partially preserved even on the territory of modern resorts. So, in Kallithea you can visit ruins of the Temple of Ammon Zeus. They are located overlooking the sea and were found during construction new hotel. Nearby is a cave associated with the ancient cult of Dionysus. And to find out the whole history of Halkidiki, starting from ancient times, it is worth going to Polygyros. The city has an archaeological museum with an impressive collection.

Having chosen Halkidiki for your vacation, it will not be difficult to visit the most interesting sights of continental Greece. The journey takes approximately 4 hours to the monasteries of Meteora- a complex built on top of ancient steep cliffs. 6 monasteries are open for visiting, each of which is famous for its unique frescoes, relics and mosaics.

It is worth a trip to the legendary Olympus, where hiking and cycling are organized. Nearby is the Franco-Byzantine fortress of Platamon - a majestic building of the XIII century, perfectly preserved. Popular among tourists in Halkidiki are day trips to Kastoria - here you can buy fur products and admire the architecture of the city, as well as thermal spa Loutraki, the sources of which are known for their healing properties.

Shopping in Halkidiki

It is impossible to return from a vacation without shopping, and shopping opportunities in Halkidiki are not limited. In large resort towns There is a good selection of shoes and clothes. Those wishing to update their wardrobe should go to Thessaloniki - there are outlets and shopping centers with boutiques of famous brands. As a souvenir, you can bring leather shoes or bags made by local craftsmen, high-quality textiles, lace, fragrant honey or durable olive tree dishes.

I would like to mention a couple of places on the first leg of Kassandra for those who would like to spend not so much a stormy as a beautiful and romantic evening ... First of all, this is the MAGIA cafe-bar (emphasis on the second syllable) in the village of Afytos. The urban-type village itself in the daylight will shock you with its national stone architecture, simplicity and beauty at the same time… not horizontal, but stepped, reminiscent of an amphitheater. The view of the bay and the second finger, Sithonia, located across the bay, glowing with lights, will make you remember that saying of the righteous Greek about Halkidiki and paradise ...

Other popular among local residents The nightclub of the Kassandra peninsula is the BAHALO bar in the village, located right on the shore. Among others, it is distinguished by torches installed right in the water near the shore, and the opportunity to swim in their light, and after that, as if nothing had happened, return to your table and finish your cocktail. During the hottest weeks of summer, BAHALO visitors enjoy this kind of night swimming with great pleasure.

Talking about bathing, one cannot help but praise the peninsula once again. The first thing that distinguishes it from the rest of the “legs” or “fingers” is the amazing two-tone coastline on the left coast. The color of the sea varies from light to very dark turquoise, depending on the seabed. Secondly, almost all beaches have a gradual, smooth entry into the water and relatively fine sand. Some places may offer diving, but don't get your hopes up here! This is not the Red Sea...

Halkidiki is one of the record holders for the number of blue flags in Greece

The second "leg" of the peninsula of Halkidiki -. She is much more serious than Cassandra. It is forbidden to build new hotels on it in order to preserve the wonderful protected areas, so - who did not have time, he was late, there are really few hotels on it - but campsites are very popular. The most famous and luxurious hotel complex is Porto Carras. The hotel has its own vineyards and developed winemaking, stables, golf courses, marinas... you can get there on a "route boat" from the town of Neos Marmaras. The shuttle departs every hour and costs about 3 euros, the travel time is no more than 10 minutes.

If you have already reached Porto Carras, drive a few more kilometers and visit the amazing bay of Porto Koufo, located almost at the very tip of Sithonia. I advise you to swim in it carefully: the depth immediately near the shore is 60 meters.

In high season, in warm water, you have very little chance of encountering a jellyfish. They swim up to the shore only with the onset of cold weather.

Going around Sithonia, be sure to make a stop: the mountain with a snow-capped peak, the view of which opened up to you, is none other than Holy Mount Athos.

Holy Mount Athos is the last, third finger of the peninsula of Halkidiki. This is an Orthodox monastic state, the only one in the world - the holy land, two thousand years ago brought as a gift to the Mother of God by her Son. According to Tradition, with the arrival of the Virgin on Athos, another woman should no longer set foot on his land - and, with rare violations, this rule was really practically not violated ... extreme point next for tourists is the town. For those wishing to penetrate further, two conditions are necessary: ​​male sex and a visa to Athos.

Another opportunity to see some of the legendary monasteries is a boat trip along its coast. Such flights regularly start from Ouranoupoli, as well as from Ormos Panagias Bay in Sithonia.

Let's take a look at Halkidiki today: pristine beaches, surplus nightlife and azure shores… fish taverns and spiced white bread toasted in olive oil … Greek hospitality, green forests and white tiled houses … rocky shores and monasteries rising from them, where hundreds of monks tirelessly offer prayers for each of us …

If the thought has crept into your head without fail to visit Greece with your children, it's time to start choosing a vacation spot.

I propose this time to consider the Halkidiki peninsula, which annually attracts thousands of families with big and small children with countless magnificent sandy beaches (many of which have been awarded the Blue Flag), shallow sea, mountain slopes with green dense forests and lush vegetation, numerous attractions and an abundance of children's clubs.

It is located in the northern part of Greece and belongs geographically to Central Macedonia. And this is the main resort place on the mainland.

The peninsula of Halkidiki, on the map resembling a trident fork, is divided into three areas: the left “tooth” is the Kassandra peninsula, beloved and often visited by tourists, the middle prong is Sithonia, also popular resort region, but more calm, and the third "tooth" of the Halkidiki peninsula - a purely masculine and sacred Agion-Oros (or Athos) - a place for reflection and peaceful relaxation.

Athos is a peninsula with 20 monasteries and the only male monastic republic in the world. Only men can go there, and then with special permission. Women are left to admire Athos from afar from pleasure boats or yachts.

The climate of Halkidiki

Average water temperature by months: May +19°С, June +23°С, July +26°С, August +27°С, September +25°С, October +21°С. June, July and September are the best months for families with children, with a total season from May to September.

The best resorts and beaches of Halkidiki for families with children

Almost all the beaches in Halkidiki (they, like in all of Greece, are municipal) have been awarded " blue flags”, and most of them are located in the resorts of Kassandra and Sithonia. The beaches are mostly sandy or a mixture of sand and small pebbles. The peninsula also has many wild beaches in beautiful secluded bays.

Resorts and beaches of Kassandra

One of the “fingers” of Chalkidiki is the Kassandra peninsula. According to ancient myths, this peninsula was called “Flegra” (“burning land”) in ancient times and it was the birthplace of the Greek Giants. It is unlikely that you will be able to meet one of the mythical Giants today. But it's good to relax with children on beautiful peninsula with a Mediterranean mild climate, clear and warm water Aegean Sea, excellent beaches here will definitely succeed.

Kassandra is a party and fun place, resort life is in full swing here day and night and, accordingly, there is less peace and quiet here than in Sithonia. But still for active rest with children who want not only to disappear all day on the beach, but also to study history Ancient Greece, the coast of Kassandra is better suited (by the way, with a more developed infrastructure and more densely built-up hotels).

A quiet place, if desired, can be found here. For example, it can be a "compromise" Pefkohori or resort village Afitos.

The resorts of Kassandra are 50 kilometers of well-groomed beaches, the gentle sea, secluded picturesque bays, and grandiose water parks. There are most hotel complexes and entertainment centers all over Halkidiki. Excellent clean sandy beaches, warm clear water, shallow depth, hot but dry climate that makes it easy to endure even forty-degree heat - a great reason to come here with children.

By the way, visiting thermal source in the pine forest in the village of Agia Paraskevi, whose waters have healing properties, you can also get rid of some diseases.

Kallithea is a lively resort town (party, with a stormy nightlife) with kilometer-long beaches of amazing purity and turquoise sea. The distance to Thessaloniki is 90 kilometers.

This option is more suitable for young people. Although with children you can find appropriate place. For example, in the village there is a clean sandy beach (the disadvantage is the descent and ascent of a steep and long staircase).

Resort Nea Fokia ( West Coast Halkidiki) is located on the site of an ordinary fishing village in a picturesque bay with a Byzantine watchtower near the sea. Nea Potidea is a small resort with amazing sandy beaches with blue warm waters of the Toronic Gulf in a beautiful small town built on the ruins of a Corinthian colony.

Afitos is a quiet resort town in a small village with buildings that have preserved the national architectural style (white 2-3-storey houses, with grapes climbing the walls and cobbled streets). The sea here is clean, warm and beautiful, a beautiful beach with turquoise water in the Gulf of Kassandra. Not much greenery. But there are few people. Apart from the minus location of the resort on a hill, along the steep slope of which you have to go down to the sea, in all other respects this beach is ideal for families with children.

One of the magnificent beaches, well-groomed, surrounded by palm trees, coniferous forests, eucalyptus trees with white sand, is located on the territory Hotel Alexander The Great.

Chanioti is a resort in a small village surrounded by flowers and greenery with small cobbled streets, which can be walked in just 10 minutes. Here is a sea with clean sand and blue water. Can be practiced different types water sports, many taverns with traditional cuisine and lively nightlife.

Pefkohori ("Sosnovka") is an ecological resort where a reasonable balance of civilization and nature is observed. Located almost in the southern point peninsulas in a mountainous area with a pine forest. It is notable for its unusual climate and beautiful landscapes, combining the azure sea, mountains, pine trees, incredible fresh air, impregnated with the aroma of coniferous trees and resin.

The beaches of the resort are constantly awarded the Blue Flag for their well-equipped and ecology. The best of them are: Kanatitsa, Glarokavos and Kira Maria.

Resorts and beaches of Sithonia

The middle “finger” of the trident is the peninsula of Sithonia with the ancient cities of Toroni, Galypsos, Sarti, Singos and Derra. There are a lot of hotels of different class here. From the airport in Thessaloniki to the desired place (70-100 km), guests are delivered by scheduled buses.

Sithonia is not as noisy as neighboring Kassandra. It is much calmer here, the resorts are located far from each other. If you wish, you can relax without getting out of the village at all. It is more like it for those who want to relax away from a large crowd of tourists.

This place is often chosen by families with children. Also because the cleanest beaches of Sithonia, which are always comfortable and warm, are covered by mountains covered with pine forests from the winds. The nature of the peninsula is unusually beautiful. There are many unique caves, monasteries and historical sights.

The beaches of Sithonia are on the list of the most clean beaches peace. A large number of small bays protect them from strong winds and storms. It is very quiet here, the water is clear and always calm. And soft sand and small pebbles attract sunbathing without any sun loungers.

Places from Nikiti to Neos Marmaras ( western shores Sithonia) are considered the best on the peninsula. Nikiti and Metamorfosi are villages with sandy beaches and pine groves.

The beach in Metamorfosi - a natural pearl of the peninsula - is located in a very small village without nightclubs and discos. The water here is calm, warms up well, excellent fine sand, water sports are available, even in the season there are few tourists. An excellent place to relax with children.

The resort village of Neos Marmaras is located on the slope of a mountain, the descent from which leads directly to the sea. In the town everything is provided for tourists. Equally well suited for those who like to lie on the sand, and for those who dream of walking in a pine forest, in some places approaching the water itself.

The beach in Toroni is nothing special, except for silence and a small number of tourists, it is not remarkable. The water is always clear, the sand is quite coarse. A local attraction is a river in which turtles are found.

The beach in the resort of Vourvourou in a bay with 9 islands covered with olive groves is considered the most exotic and natural pearl of the peninsula on the peninsula. On each small island, which can be reached by boat, has a secluded tiny beach with very white and very fine sand. The coast of the bay is indented by small picturesque bays. Behind the beach Pine forest on a mountain range.

Nea Kallikratia is a resort town located, as it were, on the “palm” of the Chalkidiki peninsula. Its attractiveness is in the vicinity of Thessaloniki Airport (25 km), in small cozy hotels, a wide beach (sand and pebbles), many shops, taverns, clubs and cafes.

Hotels for families with children in Halkidiki

Hotels on the peninsula are represented in large numbers and variety. These can be traditional boarding houses, cheap apartments, and the largest hotel complexes.

Almost every hotel offers a variety of activities for children, temporarily freeing parents from the need to look after the children and mind their own business.

Almost every hotel has pools for swimming and water games. Most of the hotels (especially high category) are located on the coast and away from the resort towns themselves.

On the peninsula of Chalkidiki (Kassandra) will delight tourists warm sea, beautiful beaches, a variety of entertainment for adults and young guests of the Sani Resort hotel chain. They are located on the territory of an ecological private reserve:

• Sani Beach 5 * - hotel with white sandy beaches and a high level of service, recognized in 2015 as one of the best for family holidays in Europe and Greece.

• Sani Club 5* is the perfect place for the whole family. Located among greenery and gardens in a secluded and quietest place in the resort.

• Porto Sani 5 * is an elegant luxury hotel located near beautiful harbor Sani Marina. Included in the top 25 family hotels Greece in 2015.

• Sani Asterias 5 * is a boutique hotel with a luxurious atmosphere in new suites for large families. It was also among the winners of Greece's family-friendly hotels in 2015.

The beaches of Sani Resort for children are a shallow seabed and a golden seven-kilometer beach with crystal clean water, free umbrellas, sun loungers, beach towels. In addition, a Babywatch service is provided for babysitting. For teenagers, there are special spa treatments in all spa centers, a nursery, a mini-club, a club for teenagers.

The hotel chain Xenios Hotels is another opportunity for a serene and comfortable rest. It includes hotels of different star ratings and different levels: 3*, 4*, 5*, apartments, each of which is individual and at the same time all of them are united by a developed infrastructure, strict requirements for service and, accordingly, the cost of living.

• Modern Xenios Anastasia Resort & Spa 5 * (Kassandra) with a beautiful author's design, a large territory. Of all the hotels of this chain, it is better than others under the Family category for a quality family vacation (participant in the project for children under 4 years old - "Mom and Baby")

• Hotel Xenios Theoxenia 4 * is located on the third peninsula near Mount Athos (2 km from Ouranoupoli)
• Xenios Possidi Paradise 4 * (Kassandra) - a good choice for families with children

• Xenios Dolphin Beach 3 * (Kassandra) - well located in resort town Sit, but with a lower price and less expensive vacation

• Inexpensive "three rubles" Xenios Port Marina 3 * (Kassandra) is recommended for families with children

• Xenios Faros Apartments (Kassandra) - for the category of vacationers who like to relax in conditions close to home. This is a complex with fully equipped apartments in the middle of an orchard, 100 meters from the sea.

Popular family-friendly hotels in Halkidiki

Hotels on the Kassandra Peninsula:

• Istion Club & Spa 5*
• Possidi Holidays 5*
• Kassandra Palace 5*
• Pomegranate Wellness Spa Hotel 5*
• Ammon Zeus 4*
• Flegra Palace 4*
• Simantro Beach 4*
• Grecotel Pella Beach 4*
• Pallini Beach 4*
• Portes Beach 4*
• Potidea Palace 4*
• Macedonian Sun 3*
• Daphne Holiday Club 3*

Hotels in Sithonia:

• Anthemus Sea beach spa 5*
• Athena Pallas Village 5*
• Porto Carras Sithonia Thalasso & Spa 5*
• Danai Beach Resort& Villas 5*
• Assa Maris Bomo Club 4*
• Village Mare 4*
• Blue Dolphin 4*
• Lagomandra Beach 3*
• Acrotel Elea Village 3*
• Simeon 2*

In addition to hotels and hotels in Halkidiki, there are many inexpensive family apartments and individual apartments.

Entertainment and attractions in Halkidiki

Much time has passed, but the ruins of the temples of Dionysus and Zeus in Kallithea, the fortress of Lykythos and the church of St. Athanasius in Sithonia will eloquently tell about the past history of the peninsula. But, no matter what resort you have, you should go to Athos, Thessaloniki, climb Mount Olympus, visit Meteora.

Walk around Mount Athos

You can go on an exciting sea voyage with the whole family on a boat and learn a lot of interesting things about the life of Athos and its monasteries.

Adventures at Waterland

Caught with the whole family on a hot day in Thessaloniki, you can go to the water park. Of course, this is not an azure sea with soft warm sand, but you will enjoy it anyway. In Northern Greece, this is the only park water activities and the largest in Europe. It is located in the suburbs, 8 kilometers from Thessaloniki.

With kids, you can stay in the children's pool, and with older children, go to all sorts of attractions, of which there are a lot. Where there is no water - a children's playground, a football field, sports grounds for volleyball and basketball.

Amusement Park Magic Park

This is another entertainment place for kids of all ages near Thessaloniki with rides and a 28-hectare botanical garden.

Zoo in Thessaloniki

The zoo is located on Kedrinou hill among a green island of cedar forest. In its luxurious gardens, you can meet a wide variety of animals and waterfowl in the reservoirs.

Other attractions

There is something to see with children and in ancient city Thessaloniki, walking along its streets and promenade. The main attractions of the city are the Arch of Emperor Galerius (Roman period, 3rd century AD). At this place in the city center, dates and meetings are usually scheduled.

Not far from the Arch of Galeria is the rotunda-tomb, the Basilica of Demetrius of Thessalonica (the main patron of Thessaloniki and saint), the Roman Agora and the Forum, a defensive fortress of the XV century White Tower co observation deck, statue of Aristotle in the city center.

Thessaloniki has interesting museums– Museum of Byzantine Art and Archaeological Museum, Olympic Museum. And you can visit the birthplace of Aristotle in the city of Stagira or the ancient city of Olynthos.

Or go to the cave of Petralona (50 kilometers from Thessaloniki). In a unique natural beauty cave discovered the skeleton of an ancient European, which is 700 thousand years old. It is interesting for everyone, but especially for children and adults who are fond of all kinds of archaeological antiquities. The Anthropological Museum is also open here.

It is interesting to take a trip with children to the soaring monasteries of Meteora. Orthodox monasteries are built on the tops of giant cliffs in the Hasia mountains (northern Greece, mountain range Pindus), which were once the rocky bottom of the prehistoric sea.

How to get to Halkidiki?

The nearest airport to Halkidiki is in Thessaloniki (the capital of Central Macedonia, the second largest city in Greece, a large sea ​​port). From this city it is very convenient to get to Halkidiki and go on excursions in Northern Greece.

Flight time from Moscow is 3 hours 20 minutes. Flights - direct or with transfers in European cities.

From the airport you can order (distance and time depends on the location of the resort). The most common form of transport is buses, taxis and.

It is no exaggeration to say that Greece has been one of the most beloved countries for many years. Russian tourists. The peninsula of Chalkidiki is perhaps one of the Mediterranean. It is important that this is an ecologically clean area.

The peninsula of Halkidiki, resembling a trident in its shape, is an evergreen paradise. Liveliness and bustle of a large city are wonderfully combined here. locality with peace and quiet. Magnificent Greece - Halkidiki, Kassandra in particular, will be the topic of our conversation today.

Myths and legends

According to myths and legends, the territory that we today call the peninsula of Halkidiki, consisting of such parts as Kassandra, Sithonia and Athos, was inhabited by the titans. One day a battle ensued between them and the gods. In the old days, this land was called Flegra, which means "fiery place."

Legend has it that the titan Enkelad is buried alive under one of the rocks. Sometimes he wants to free himself, there is a terrible roar, the earth shakes under his powerful blows. And then what happens is modern man called an earthquake.

Locals claim that in ancient times the titans Athos and Siton quarreled over the beautiful mermaid Pallini. They angered Poseidon with this. He threw his trident, and a peninsula appeared with three "fingers" - peninsulas.

Geographical position

Halkidiki is located in the northeast of Greece. It is often referred to as "Poseidon's trident". The most popular and most visited "finger - prong" is the Kassandra Peninsula. The beaches of Chalkidiki in general and Kassandra in particular, covered with white sand, beautiful bays, luxurious pine groves no one will be left indifferent.

The middle "finger" of Halkidiki is Sithonia. It is surrounded by many bays and charming coves. Fishing settlements, wild green forests, blue sea made this peninsula the most picturesque of the three "brothers".

The most mysterious and practically untouched by civilization is the Athos peninsula, inhabited mainly by monks. The beauty of this place is impressive. The holy mountain that rises on it is covered with dense forests.

A fairly large peninsula, which Greece possesses, Halkidiki (Kassandra, Sithonia, Athos), covers an area of ​​two thousand nine hundred and eighteen square kilometers. Length coastline- five hundred kilometers.

Population

The data of the latest census indicate that one hundred and five thousand nine hundred and fifty people live on the peninsula.

Capital

The main city of the peninsula is Polygyros, which is located on a plateau, surrounded by hills and forests. It was built in the form of an amphitheater at the foot of Mount Holomontas. It offers simply stunning views of the boundless sea and the peninsula itself.

The beaches of Halkidiki

This amazing peninsula has many well-established places on the coast. But perhaps the most popular and most visited are the beaches of Kassandra.

Nea Moudania is a resort located fifty-seven kilometers from Thessaloniki. Six thousand five hundred people live here. This is a very green place with an abundance of apricot, citrus and olive orchards. The well-equipped sandy beach of Nea Moudania has everything you need to practice various water sports.

The next resort is sixty kilometers away from Thessaloniki. This is Nea Potidea. The settlement appeared in the year one thousand nine hundred and twenty-two. The population is only one and a half thousand people. The beach is sand and pebble, has the necessary equipment for a comfortable stay.

On site ancient settlement ninety kilometers from the city of Thessaloniki is the resort of Sani - one of the most famous in the country. It is often referred to as the "Monte Carlo of Greece".

In summer, the harbor of this resort is visited by expensive yachts, which deliver their owners for holidays in Halkidiki. Tours to the peninsula are becoming more and more popular every year.

Afytos, according to many vacationers, is the most beautiful resort of Kassandra. An old village with cobbled streets stands above a wonderful bay with white sand. Two sandy beach fenced with low cliffs and bays, where you can safely spend your vacation, relaxing from the bustle of the city.

Weather

The most favorable season for recreation on the peninsula is summer. At this time, simply magnificent Halkidiki is here, Kassandra in particular, in many respects this attracts tourists from all over the world to their beaches. The best months to visit are July and August. At this time, it is always clear and calm on the peninsula. Rain during these months is extremely rare. Evenings and nights are very warm, which contributes to the scope of the club life in Kallithea - the capital of Kassandra. Only in October the rains begin and cold winds are felt.

Resort Features

You should know that on the peninsulas of Halkidiki beach season somewhat shorter than in other resorts in Greece. It ends in September. However, this disadvantage is more than compensated by a clear advantage: despite the fact that in summer the air temperature can rise above thirty-five degrees, it is very dry here, which is why the heat is almost not felt. The mountains reliably close the peninsula from penetrating and cold winds. The water in the sea is always warm and calm, so it is very comfortable to relax here with children.

For many tourists, the most desirable place where they would like to spend their next vacation is Greece. Halkidiki, Kassandra, Sithonia - peninsulas that can make everyone's dream of a perfect vacation come true. I must say that the rest on them is different. For example, the atmosphere on Sithonia is more peaceful and calm than on Kassandra. Therefore, lovers of a quiet family holiday are better off choosing Sithonia.

The beaches of Halkidia throughout the peninsula are well equipped, equipped with sunbeds and umbrellas. In addition, you can rent snorkeling equipment.

Attractions of Halkidiki: Kassandra

If you think that you can relax on this wonderful peninsula only on the beach, then you are deeply mistaken. There are many sights on Kassandra that you can see.

This peninsula is the pearl of Halkidiki. Kassandra (a map of Greece will tell you) is located between the Thermaikos and Toroneos canals. It is connected to the land by the Potidea Canal. The beaches of the peninsula stretch for fifty kilometers. The recreation area is very picturesque and well equipped. The sights of Halkidiki (Kassandra in this sense is no exception) are numerous historical and cultural monuments. Not far from the peninsula is a natural memorial place peninsulas - the legendary Mount Olympus, where the gods lived.

Not everyone knows that the birthplace of the great Aristotle is the village of Stagira in Chalkidiki. And the karst has gained worldwide fame. Unusually interesting monuments of ancient times in Athens - the capital of Greece. No less impressive for travelers is the village of Afitis. It has well-preserved architectural style typical of ancient Greece with its narrow streets and small restaurants serving national dishes to their guests.

The village of Kalandra is famous for its well-preserved Temple of Poseidon.

Communication and communications

Almost throughout the territory of Kassandra there is Internet and Wi-Fi. Cellular communication is working properly. If necessary, you can use international and long-distance communications.

Hotels

Experienced travelers know how comfortable Kassandra is in particular, they have adopted the best experience in this direction. Here you can choose a hotel in full accordance with your financial capabilities. You can stay in a modest 2 * hotel room or in luxurious apartments in a five-star hotel. We want to warn you right away that the quality of service in them does not depend on the category: in Greece it is always at the highest level.

The best hotels are located on the beach. Almost all of them have their own beaches with free umbrellas and sunbeds. If you come on vacation with a child, then when choosing a hotel, you need to pay attention to the availability of baby food, a club for kids, and animation. Children will enjoy staying in a hotel with a water park or water slides located on its territory. Before the trip, carefully study the ratings of hotels, reviews of vacationers. You can book a hotel in Kassandra via the Internet. It is better to do this a few months before the intended trip. This will not only save you money, but also give you a 100% guarantee that at the right time a free room in the chosen hotel will be provided to you, even in the midst of the beach season.

Kassandra Palace 5*

A magnificent hotel located on the Kassandra peninsula. The building is surrounded by a luxurious garden, which is based on tropical trees. Those who have already been to this hotel note the unsurpassed service, attentive and respectful attitude to the wishes of guests, friendly and warm atmosphere.

The hotel welcomes guests from the beginning of May until the end of October. A lot of good hotels located on the Chalkidiki peninsula. "Cassandra Palace" is rightfully recognized as the best. It has two hundred and eighty rooms, has its own sand and pebble beach.

All hotel rooms are technically well equipped. There is a refrigerator, safe, TV, satellite TV, telephone. Each room has a balcony or terrace overlooking the emerald sea or the magnificent garden. The hotel has a well-developed infrastructure. There is a magnificent spacious restaurant serving Greek and European cuisine. You can visit a stylish bar located in the hotel lobby, a pool bar, a Greek tavern.

For younger guests, a baby cot, a swimming pool, a playground, a toddler club are offered. If necessary, you can order individual babysitting services.

Those who wish to spend their holidays actively can visit the outdoor pool, basketball and volleyball courts, tennis courts. You can work out in the well-equipped gym.

Many hotels on the peninsula use the now popular All Inclusive system. These are usually four star hotels. By booking a room in them, you will receive all services for free. These are meals, alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, gym classes, etc.

Kitchen

As you know, in any corner of sunny Greece, including on the Kassandra peninsula, preference is given (meat and fish dishes, a large number of vegetables and fruits). Athos monastic cuisine, which is based exclusively on natural products, must be singled out separately.

Sunny Greece is always glad to guests. Halkidiki (Kassandra) is suitable for holidays with family, children, as well as those who appreciate good beaches, pristine nature, professionalism and friendliness of the staff.

Many will be pleased with the resorts on the Halkidiki peninsula. Kassandra (photo you can see in this article) offers interesting and informative excursions, great vacation on the beach, original cuisine, luxurious nature, unique historical monuments, comfortable hotels.