What to see in Halkidiki? Cellular and telephone communication. things to do in this region

Greece is one of ancient countries, whose culture has had a significant impact on world art, politics, sports, philosophy and, of course, language. Today she is popular resort, where millions of tourists from all over the world come to rest every year. The state includes about 700 islands. One of the most significant resort regions in Greece is Halkidiki. Reviews of tourists, attractions, hotels and other helpful information about the peninsula are presented in this article.

Territory of Chalkidiki

Halkidiki is a peninsula located in the northern part of the Aegean Sea, in the northeast modern Greece. Its area is 2918 km². It belongs to the region of Central Macedonia and is part of the Greek province of Chalkidiki.

Brief information about the peninsula

Nome deserved its popularity due to the fact that it absorbed the heritage of almost all cultures that have ever been on the territory of Greece. It is shaped like a trident. The three parts are the peninsulas of Kassandra, Athos and Sithonia.

When the hot months come, the resort is literally immersed in greenery. There is a relic pine forest, oak, beech and fir groves, as well as many flowers and other vegetation.

The length of the coastline of Chalkidiki is 850 km, and all this territory is the cleanest sandy beaches, cozy bays and bays of incredible beauty.

Halkidiki peninsula (Greece) is ideal for tourists who appreciate a quiet, comfortable stay. Most often, families with children and couples in love fly here as part of a romantic trip. There are many comfortable hotels and apartments on the island, and restaurants and cafes offer dishes from different cuisines of the world. Travel agencies offer to diversify your vacation by going on an excursion in the most interesting direction.

Weather conditions on the island

The hottest time to visit the resort is from May to September inclusive. During this season the air temperature reaches +35°C. The climate is dry, due to which the heat is tolerated normally. Protects the area from winds mountain range.

In October, Halkidiki (Greece) is still suitable for relaxation, but it gets much cooler here. During the day, the air temperature rises to a maximum of +21°C, at night - up to +12°C. From December to March it is cold on the island. Daytime temperature during these months averages +12°C, nighttime - +4°C.

Water temperature in Halkidiki during the year

In summer the water warms up to +26°C. Due to the absence of winds, the sea is calm and remains warm even at night. In general, the water is comfortable enough to enjoy swimming to the fullest.

From October in Halkidiki (Greece) the water temperature becomes lower. This month it reaches a maximum of +20°C. From November to January it stays at +15°C. The coldest months are February and March. The water temperature is only +13°C. In April and May +14°C/+18°C respectively.

All notable places Nome can be conditionally divided into 3 parts:

• The heritage of Ancient Greece - iconic objects are concentrated mainly in Kassandra.
• Christian shrines - there are quite a lot of them in Athos.
• The heritage of the later centuries - respectively, these attractions are located in Sithonia.

Let's explore the most popular and important places on the island of Halkidiki by going virtually to every corner of the "trident".

1. Sights of Kassandra.

Being on this peninsula, be sure to visit the temple of Zeus-Ammon. Here, the ruins of an ancient Greek building appear before tourists. It was to her that several millennia ago people brought gifts intended for the gods. Various ceremonies and rituals were also held here. The temple was a structure surrounded by columns and statues - a traditional Greek architectural solution. Inside there was a place for open sky organized for religious events.

The city of Potidea deserves no less attention among the attractions of Halkidiki. Located near the famous settlement of Thessaloniki, according to legends, it is the very place where the first man appeared on Earth. The town is actually something similar to the Garden of Eden, but in modern processing. Comfortable hotels, cozy cafes, various shops and shops on the most beautiful streets - all this creates a unique atmosphere. But the main thing here is historical relics and architectural monuments.

Another ancient city on the Chalkidiki peninsula is Mendi. Unlike Potidea, it attracts more with nature, although it is also rich memorable places and cultural relics. For example, there is an ancient fortress here, the construction of which dates back to the 8th century BC.

One of the most important cultural treasures of Kassandra and the oldest religious monument- Church of St. Demetrius. By visiting the shrine, you can feel the spirit of the ancient Greek era, enjoy the modest but impressive architecture.

2. Sights of Athos.

As the reviews of tourists say, Halkidiki (Greece) is worth a visit, if only because it is here that Athos is located - the most picturesque "prong". The main attraction, as you might guess, is the holy mountain of the same name. Its height is just over 2000 meters. 20 monasteries have been built on the mountain, and today the construction of new temples is prohibited here. Athos is an object world heritage UNESCO.

The main monastery is the Great Lavra. It is located on the southeastern tip of the peninsula. It is considered the oldest shrine, as it was built first. Lavra is unusually beautiful and bright. Other monasteries on Athos:

• Iversky;
• Constamonite;
• Vartoped;
• Gregory;
• Dionysiat;
• Dohiar;
• Zigu Monastery is the only temple that the fair sex can visit, because, as you know, women and female animals are forbidden to be in all other shrines;
• Zograf;
• Caracal;
• Xenophon;
• Xiropotam;
• Cutlumush;
• Pantocrator;
• Monastery of St. Paul;
• Simonopetra;
• Stavronikita;
• Philotheus;
• Hilandar;
• Esfigmen.

Each of the monasteries is beautiful in its own way, so it is impossible to recommend any specific temples for visiting.

3. Sights of Sithonia.

The peninsula is the largest of the "teeth". It is located between Kassandra and Athos. While here, it is worth visiting the church of St. Athanasius, built in 1814, which was restored twice after fires. The first time - in 1821, the second - in 1854.

In the city of Nikiti is the main attraction - the Church of the Assumption Holy Mother of God built in the 14th century. In general, Sithonia is perfect place for a relaxing relaxing holiday. Not even here large hotels, mostly these are small cozy hotels, immersed in greenery.

The beaches of Halkidiki

On the island of Halkidiki (Greece), the beaches are not only beautiful, but also comfortable for relaxation. Each "prong" is unique in terms of entertainment and is ready to offer something interesting and special. For example, Kassandra offers to enjoy the most picturesque sunsets. Among them are the following beaches:

• Chanioti - located in the village of the same name. This is a narrow sand and pebble strip with a smooth entry into the sea.
• Kallithea - also located in the village of the same name and is considered one of the most popular. The beach is sandy, snow-white, smoothly flowing into the purest sea blue.
• Sani is heaven on earth. The beach is not only clean and comfortable, but also well-maintained. There are many taverns and other establishments that offer Greek cuisine, as well as a yacht harbor, a nature reserve lined with pine and olive groves.
• Sit - surrounded by a pine forest sand and pebble beach, on which the ruins of the temple of Poseidon are located.
• Pefkohori - this beach is located almost in a pine forest. It is also very beautiful and clean, thanks to which it receives a blue flag every year.

On each of the beaches of Kassandra, conditions for active recreation are provided, which cannot be said about Sithonia. People come here for a relaxing holiday. Popular beaches include:

• Cavurothripes;
• Nikiti;
• Akti Koviu;
• Neos Marmaros;
• Kryphos Paradisos;
• Armenistis;
• Ormos Panagias.

Religious Athos offers its tourists such comfortable beaches:

• Develiki;
• Olympics;
• Kakudya;
• Tripiti;
• Ouranoupolis.

Excursion programs

At leisure, in order not to get bored in a hotel room, it is recommended to go on one of the proposed tours. Excursion programs are of several types. Since the island is beautiful and rich in sights, the guides have developed several directions so that each person can choose the most attractive option for traveling around Halkidiki (Greece). Reviews of tourists say that no matter which tour is chosen, it will give a lot of positive emotions.

One of the most popular excursions- Mount Meteora. This is the pride of Greece! Meteora consists of sheer cliffs, and on its top are Orthodox monasteries built by the hands of monks.

It is also proposed to go to the House of the twelve gods - Olympus. Since it is very big mountain, safe routes have been developed here, as well as shelters where tourists can relax.

Hotels and apartments in Halkidiki

For a truly enjoyable vacation, you need to choose the right hotel. There are many decent options on the island, but the list of the best hotels in Halkidiki (Greece) includes only a few of them:

• Miraggio Thermal Spa Resort 5 * - is located on the Kassandra Peninsula, near the village of Paliouri. A modern, comfortable spa hotel with many services, opened in 2016.
• Pomegranate 5 * is a luxury spa hotel located near the village of Nea Potidea. A wide range of services and well-equipped rooms make your stay as pleasant and relaxing as possible.

If we talk about the best apartments in Halkidiki (Greece), then it is worth highlighting Adriana Studios, Oceanis Apartmen and Alkionis Apartment on the Kassandra Peninsula, as well as Maistrali Beach Hotel, 4you Apartments Hotel, Village Mare Residence and 4you Family on Sithonia.

Restaurants and cafes on the peninsula

Places that can be called a paradise for gourmets and lovers of fun, there are no less than hotels and beaches. For example, while in Kallithea, it is recommended to visit the nightclubs PLAY Summer Club and Boutique Dance Stage. They offer a variety of dishes and drinks, spacious dance floors are equipped, DJs play. In the northern part of Greece, in Hanioti, there is one of the best Italian restaurants in the country - Gusto Italiano. The establishment has a rich menu with traditional Italian dishes, as well as an excellent wine list.

Another famous resort good restaurants and bars, - Pefkohori. There is a cozy and calm tavern El Greco Taverna, whose chef is considered one of the best masters of national Greek cuisine. Taste incredibly delicious dishes are offered on the terrace, enjoying the seascape.

Halkidiki (Greece): reviews of tourists

The peninsula is the most popular resort in Northern Greece. In whatever corner of Halkidiki tourists come, they note high service, interesting excursion programs, the cleanest and most comfortable beaches for relaxation, cozy restaurants and cafes for dinner in the rays of the setting sun. Also, people in the reviews write that there are relatively low prices for accommodation and food, and the products that are sold in the markets and shops are always fresh and tasty. Halkidiki, according to the opinion of tourists, is one of the the best places in Greece, where you can alternate peaceful rest with active events so that your vacation is as pleasant, useful and memorable as possible!

What is good about a holiday in Halkidiki? All about the largest resort region Greece: climate, active recreation, sights and hotels of Halkidiki.

Part of the peninsula of Halkidiki is a favorite vacation spot. Its nature captivates with the beauty of landscapes with an abundance of nimble mountain streams, lush oak forests, olive groves, pine trees, quaint hills and ravines, majestic mountains and beaches with a length of more than 550 km. Outdoor enthusiasts will spend time getting acquainted with the sights of Halkidiki, which includes the peninsula of Kassandra, Sithonia and Athos.

Monasteries, chapels, temples, open-air archaeological museums, stalactite caves, the ruins of ancient cities are basic list of things to see and visit in Halkidiki. Those who do not intend to bore themselves with excursions are waiting for the beaches of Halkidiki. Their range is huge - from pebble to sand! And the crystal clear waters of the Aegean Sea, turquoise bays and underwater landscapes that divers will be interested in will surely surprise you.

Halkidiki peninsula on the map of Greece

Weather in Halkidiki - the climate of the peninsula

The climate of Halkidiki is quite mild, it is a cross between Mediterranean and humid continental. What does this mean for us tourists? And the fact that there are no harsh winters and extremely hot summer days. Strong winds also bypass the peninsula, thanks to the protection of the majestic mountains. Summer is famous for being sunny and warm weather with an average daily air temperature of about 26 °, the sea warms up to 25 ° heat.

Holidays in Halkidiki - things to do

Such beaches can be found in Halkidiki!

Holidays on the Halkidiki peninsula will appeal to both young couples and families with children, as well as people of age. Cozy cafes and restaurants in traditional Greek style will allow you to enjoy the rich national cuisine, which is famous for its delicious goat cheeses, ripe olives, incredibly delicious meat delicacies and a huge range of seafood dishes. Fruits and vegetables grown under the hot rays of the sun will surprise you with their rich taste and help stock up on vitamins.

For those who prefer to have fun and noisy time, there are many night clubs and discos, also on almost all beaches there is a series of beach bars where you can refresh yourself with cool drinks and hide from the scorching sun, enjoying the wonderful atmosphere of resort life.

And the children will be delighted with visiting the fun Waterland water park.

Sights of Halkidiki

The peninsula is great place rest for those who dream of sunbathing and feeling the spirit of an ancient civilization. Popular attractions in Halkidiki:

• Cave of Petralona. This cave is located near the village of Katsika. The cave is very beautifully decorated from the inside with stalactites and stalagmites, and it is located right at the side of the mountain. The total length of the entire cave and its branches is about 2 thousand kilometers, which cannot but surprise. A tour of the cave will leave an unforgettable experience, the main thing is not to forget to bring warm clothes with you, as the temperature in the cave barely reaches 17 degrees.

  

  Let's start with the bright sights of Halkidiki - the caves of Petralona

• - These are giant bizarre rocks hanging over the city of Kalambaka. On the tops of the mountains there are monasteries erected in the 14th century by monks. Of the 24 monasteries, only 6 are active, of which only one is female. They are open to tourists, as elsewhere, there are rules here, visitors can only enter the monastery with their shoulders and knees covered.

  

  One of the most interesting places in Halkidiki is the monasteries of Meteora!

• Mount Athos. There are 20 monasteries on the mountain surrounded by subtropical forests. The height of the mountain exceeds 2000 meters, for 15 centuries this place has been considered sacred among male pilgrims (women are not allowed to enter). See our album.

  

• Peninsula Kassandra. One of the peninsulas of Halkidiki bears the royal name. By the way, Alexander the Great himself was the father-in-law of this king. This is very a nice place with charming nature, wonderful air and picturesque seascapes. There are many on the peninsula resort towns with varied hotel base and plenty of entertainment such as Afytos, Kalithea, Neo Moudania.

  

  The peninsula of Kassandra is a small part of Halkidiki

• Olympus- this mountain is known to many since school days as a home for the ancient Greek gods. This place is really very beautiful and amazing. It is not for nothing that many legends have been composed about him and a huge number of films have been shot, as well as about the life of inaccessible gods. Six peaks flaunt at the top of the mountain, and the plateau is surrounded by alpine meadows.

  

  Trekking tour to Olympus - the main attraction of the peninsula

• Winery Porto Carras. Greece is known not only historical heritage but also with its vineyards and olive groves. In ancient Greek history, there are many references to winemakers. In the 60s, winemaker Janis Karras, inspired by tradition, decided to create a winery on the slopes of Mount Meliton.

  

  Porto Carras wine is made from local grapes.

• Loutra Pozar- This picturesque resort, located between two mountain peaks that protect it from cold winds. Healing Mountain air, amazing nature and thermal springs contribute to healing and excellent air.

  

Tours in Halkidiki are popular Greek village where you can get acquainted with the culture and traditions of the people, learn how to dance sirtaki and taste the delicious local wine.

Where to stay in Halkidiki

Villas, hotels and hotels in Halkidiki will help accommodate people with different taste preferences and financial capabilities. Here you can find both modest 2 * hotels and luxurious hotels with the 5-star label. Wherever you stay, the famous Greek hospitality, comfort and fairly good service await you everywhere.

If you prefer to choose on your own where and for what money you are going, not trusting the choice of a tour operator, then several proven hotels in Halkidiki may interest you:

Location and description of the Halkidiki peninsula

The Greek resort of Halkidiki is located in the north of Greece, in the administrative region of Central Macedonia and is washed by the waters of the Aegean Sea. Halkidiki is one of the most ecologically clean resorts throughout Europe and is very popular with tourists from all over the world.
We will tell about the reasons for such popularity in our article.

Important! Tours to Greece for holidays in Halkidiki attract from year to year with their affordable prices and hold the first place among the popular beach destinations in Europe. And all kinds of hotel promotions from early booking to special offers for family holidays from well-known hotel chains allow our tourists to get more than worthy rest for quite budgetary money.

Speaking of Greece, it is difficult not to think about the myths and legends of Ancient Greece, because the description of almost every corner of this country is associated with the names of the Gods of Olympus and the legends about their origin. According to legend, when the gods of Olympus entered the battle with the titans, the formidable Poseidon lost his trident in the sea. This is how the peninsula of Halkidiki arose, consisting of three "fingers" - the peninsulas of Kassandra, Sithonia and Athos - a fantastically beautiful place in Greece!

Traveling around the peninsula, a bewitching sight opens up to your eyes - on the one hand, the azure sea and golden sand, fluffy pines and ancient olive trees, on the other, the endless blue sky and snow-capped peaks mountains shrouded in mist.

olive groves

The peninsula of Chalkidiki can deservedly be called a nature reserve and the "lungs" of the whole country. Here you can admire the age-old majestic pine trees, olive groves that carpet large areas (some trees here are about five hundred years old!), sprawling palm trees and orange trees, and flowers, flowers, flowers ...

And most importantly - the purest, transparent, incredible shade of the azure Aegean Sea.

How to get to the resort

It is most convenient to fly to the city of Thessaloniki, or rather Thessaloniki. In the spring-summer period, you can use not only regular flights Aeroflot, Transaero, Greek Airlines, but also numerous charters. For tourists who prefer the most budget options, there are connecting flights to choose from, for example, via Istanbul.

Climate and natural features

You can come to rest in Halkidiki from May. At this time it is sunny and warm, the air temperature can warm up to 25°C during the day and drop to 14°-16 C at night. Therefore, for walks in the evening it is advisable to take warm clothes. The water temperature is about 20-23 °C and you can already swim. The weather in Halkidiki at this time is pleasant and mild. Strong winds are not observed, but there are light breezes. The Velvet season in Halkidiki begins from the end of August. At this time, it is best to visit these beautiful places, as the sea has warmed up perfectly during the hot summer, and the weather is still warm, but not extremely hot. True, from mid-October, the number of rainy days increases, day and night temperatures gradually decrease. July is considered the hottest month. At this time, the daily temperature can rise to 30-35*, water 28-30*. Simply amazing!

Resort Features. Peninsula Kassandra

The Kassandra Peninsula is the most popular place for relax. Here you will find many hotels for every taste, level and budget - from small and cozy to luxurious and expensive.

The resort of the island of Kassandra is suitable for active recreation for young people, families with children and cheerful and cheerful "pensioners" will have something to do. Hotels can be found for any budget and level of comfort. And in no other place in Greece there are so many different apartments and cozy mini-hotels for accommodation. big family or company!

Here at the disposal of tourists there will be many restaurants, shops, taverns and all kinds of entertainment. It is especially fun and pleasant to spend time here in the evening among cheerful music, fresh seafood and Greek sweets, drinks, national songs and dances. And it is especially pleasant - in Greece you will not find intrusive animation, while cultural and entertainment programs thought out to the smallest detail.

The nightlife on Kassandra is in full swing! But in the afternoon, do not forget about the siesta - because of the hot weather, it is customary to relax here from 13:00 to 17:00! In the evening, all entertainment is at your service!

Resort Features. Island of Sithonia.

The peninsula of Sithonia is the greenest of the three islands. Popular with tourists for the incredible beauty of landscapes, luxurious pine trees, olive groves, azure bays, golden beaches and much, much more.

One of the few places in Greece where there are no harmful industries at all, and nothing reminds of scientific and technological progress. However, this does not affect the quality and comfort of the local hotels. It is here that the most luxurious hotels with spas and sports and entertainment complexes are located. Many hotels are designed in the style of Greek villages and are perfect for rest and relaxation. And it should be noted that the prices for holidays in Sithonia do not bite at all. Hotels of a similar high standard anywhere in Turkey will be much higher.

The peninsula of Sithonia is suitable for lovers of silence, measured rest and true connoisseurs of nature. And it also seems that there is no time on Sithonia, you don’t feel it, you just get lost in it and dissolve. And sitting at a table in a cozy restaurant or tavern on the seashore, you feel complete peace and joy.

Resort Features. Athos island.

The Athos peninsula is the most famous of the three islands. One of the main shrines of the Christian world since the time of Byzantium. There used to be forty monasteries here, but today only twenty remain. A visit to Athos is available only to believing men who have received special permission from the spiritual authorities of the city of Ouranoupoli.

Women are strictly forbidden to enter the monastic republic! Well, the laws must be respected, and as the men themselves joke, this is the only place on earth not available to women.

But everyone can make an amazing sea ​​excursion along west coast Mount Athos.

From the yacht you can admire the eight most important monasteries, including the Russian one - St. Panteleimon, as well as see caves, cells and sketes.

In the city of Ouranoupolis itself and on the Athos peninsula, there is all the necessary infrastructure for recreation and tourism. At your service and hotels of any level and comfort, and many taverns and restaurants with national cuisine, and souvenir shops. And yet, Athos is not as noisy and crowded as Kassandra - the proximity of the monasteries and the specificity of the place affect.

Excursions

What excursions can be visited while relaxing on the Halkidiki peninsula?

From the island of Kassandra you can go:

• To the Cave of Petralona in Neo Moudania, where traces of primitive man (200,000 years old) were found.
• To the Archaeological complex "Olinth Museum" - the ancient city of Olynthus
• To the Byzantine tower in Nea Fokia.
• Folklore Museums in Neo Moudania and Afytos.
• At the Sanctuary of Amon Zeus and Poseidon at Afytos.
• The Acropolis of Antigone in Nea Kalikratia.

From the peninsula of Sithonia it is more convenient to see:

• Remains of ancient fortifications on the site of the ancient city of Toroni.
• Winery and wine cellars (get acquainted with the technology of production and aging, the best wines in Greece and, of course, get to the tasting).
• Archaeological and folklore museums in Polygoros.
• National evening in a tavern in Vourvourou.

And, of course, make an unforgettable trip to Meteora (we will tell about this amazing excursion in a separate article) and a fur coat tour to the factories of Kastoria, which are offered from any resort on the Halkidiki peninsula.

Planet Travel managers are always ready to give our tourists detailed advice on holidays in Greece, choose a comfortable hotel, provide transfers, book a convenient flight and recommend interesting excursions.

We wish you unforgettable holiday on the coast of the Aegean Sea!

One of the most unusual in form and mysterious in origin, the peninsula of Halkidiki is a real pearl of resort Greece. The port jutting into the Aegean Sea is divided into 3 “fingers”, each of which is a wonderful corner of the paradise tropics, with amazing beaches, cozy bays and healing air, saturated with the aroma of pine needles. The names of the "fingers" are associated with ancient Greek mythology, which tells of giant heroes waging a long-term war with the gods of Mount Olympus. Huge stones served as a tool for them, which subsequently formed three ledges.

A stone thrown by the giant Athos and fallen into the sea formed the Athos mountain range. The second stone, which formed another ledge - "finger", was called Sithonia; and the third received the name of King Cassander. The legend of earthquakes is connected with the latter - the goddess Athena, fighting with the giants, threw a stone that covered one of the giants of Engelados. For many centuries, he has been trying to free himself from the stone, causing earthquakes with his powerful movements.

Whoever visits the p / o Halkidiki for the first time, sees the local beauties and feels the beneficial effects environmental ecology, he will willingly believe in the divine origin of these places. All year round in Halkidiki you can have a great rest, combining staying on the beach and swimming in azure waters with an inspection of unique sights, of which there are many.

Despite the huge difference in the territories of Greece and China, Greece is the second country after China in terms of the number of limestone caves. One of the largest and most amazing in beauty is the Petralona Cave, located on the slope of Mount Katsika, 270 meters above sea level, not far from the village of the same name. It was opened in 1959 by one of the villagers, who explored the mountain for a source of water and stumbled upon a deep crevice. When the risky young people, who expressed a desire to go down into it, found themselves in a spacious dungeon, they were shocked by the peculiar beauty of the cave. Bizarre formations of stalactites and stalagmites, intertwined in fantastic patterns, created a special, uniquely beautiful natural design.

Since that time, a serious examination of the unique dungeon began, as a result of which the bones and skulls of people and animals that lived in these places hundreds of thousands of years ago were discovered. Now all these exhibits are exhibited in the showcases of the cave, being irrefutable proof of many scientific theories about the development of life on Earth. The dimensions of the cave are impressive: if you add together the length of all its halls and corridors, you get at least 2 thousand km. An excursion through the mysterious cave labyrinths is a journey into the world of beauty and mystery. Before descending into the cave, you need to remember that this is a dungeon where the temperature is not summer (17 degrees), and you should dress warmly.

It is very interesting to visit the Anthropological Museum, located nearby: its expositions are a visual aid for studying human life.

In the popular tourist region of Greece - Thessaly, there are phenomenal mountain rocks, located in a vertical bulk over the city of Kalambaka. Their almost absolute perpendicularity is surprising, but even more striking is the presence on the tops of these rocks of monasteries erected by ascetic monks in the 14th century. It remains only to guess how much effort it took to build the monasteries of Meteora in such hard-to-reach places. "Meteora" in translation from Greek sounds like "soaring in the air." Indeed, one gets the impression that white-stone buildings under red roofs are hovering in the heavenly heights.

Of the 24 monasteries, only 6 have survived, one of which is female, now only 4 have preserved their monastic status, the rest have become original museums. Due to the influx of tourists, many monks left their habitats so as not to tempt themselves with worldly fuss. Now a steep paved road leads to the foot of the holy objects, which is quite extreme to drive on. But the opportunity to plunge into the monastic life, to understand and feel the spirit of the people who created such a miracle under heaven, is worth it.

The Transfiguration Monastery - the most majestic and grandiose - is located in a valley located at an altitude of 623 m above sea level. It was founded in the 14th century. Athanasius and began to prosper, thanks to the funds invested in him by the emperor of Serbia Uros, who decided to change the rank of ruler to a monastic and donate his treasures to the development of the Great Meteor (another name for the monastery).

The entrance to the monasteries has its own requirements: you can’t bare your shoulders and legs here. Long skirts and pants are provided to tourists (2 euros) by the services of the monastery. There is something to see here: ancient books, manuscripts, manuscripts, household items made by monks - everything that takes modern people into the distant past.

Ouranoupolis - ancient Greek city

Cosy resort town ok, located on Cape Aion Oros, is shrouded in numerous legends. The gentle waters of the Aegean Sea, washing the city, beautiful beaches, comfortable climate attract thousands of tourists here. It is no coincidence that the city was founded here in prehistoric times (315 BC). Only in such a blessed place, according to its founder, the philosopher Alexarchus, could multilingual people live, absolutely equal in rights.

An attempt to unite in Ouranopolis (“the city of heaven”) inhabitants speaking different languages ​​was unsuccessful, but the legend about this remained. Probably, it is impossible to reliably state that the current resort of Ouranoupolis is the place where they tried to create new type linguistic statehood. But the name stuck, the city developed, thanks to the proximity of the monastic republic to the city of Athos. There are all conditions for a beautiful calm family vacation providing different types of beach and cultural activities.

If Mount Olympus is the abode of the gods, then Mount Athos is the world-famous monastic republic, the stronghold of world Orthodoxy, uniting male monks from different countries planets. 20 monasteries, located at an altitude of 2200 m above sea level, are located on the peninsula of the same name among the fertile subtropical nature. For 15 centuries, Byzantine culture and the highest spirituality have been preserved here, attracting millions of pilgrims here, including great, famous people, male royals (taboo for women here).

Mount Athos is considered the abode of the earthly residence of the Mother of God, which is associated with many beliefs and legends that tell how this place was chosen by the Holy Virgin. Here, it seems, the very air is saturated with the purity of holiness, Orthodox prayers and the sinlessness of thoughts. It is no coincidence that famous movie and pop stars come here to feel this atmosphere of holy purity. The monastic republic lives according to the Charter, established in 1924, according to which all monasteries are under the spiritual jurisdiction of the Eastern Orthodox Church.

Kassandra - a charming peninsula

The western "finger" of Halkidiki - Kassandra bears the name of the king, whose father-in-law was the famous Alexander the Great. Active life began here in the 4th century BC, as evidenced by the results of archaeological excavations. Truly heavenly nature, the proximity of the sea, the cleanest air, the extraordinary beauty of the surrounding landscapes attracted the first settlers here, who happily settled in the enchanting area. Here, in relic caves, drawings on the rocks were found, indicating the presence of primitive people on Kassandra. The archaeological complex-museum "Olinth" presents exhibits illustrating the antiquities of Kassandra.

A fascinating journey can be made through the churches of Kassandra, each of which is associated with the names of the ancient Greek gods and holy righteous: the temple of Zeus-Amon and Poseidon, the Sanctuary of Dionysus, the Acropolis of Antigone, the church of St. Dmitry and other religious sites.

Modern Kassandra is a territory of resort towns and villages, with a well-developed network of hotels, beach infrastructure, a comfortable climate and uniquely beautiful views. Among them, Neo Moudania, Nea Potidea, Kallithea, Pefkohori, Afytos are very popular. Healing sea air, clean beaches, amazing landscapes of the peninsula make it the most attractive place for recreation and tourism.

Loutra Pozar Spa Resort

The nature of Halkidiki is immensely generous and rich, it endowed the inhabitants with real treasures, one of which is the natural spa resort of Loutra Pozar. He settled down in cozy place, under the reliable protection of two mountain peaks that block the path of cold winds. You need to come here for health: hot thermal springs, mountain air infused with the aromas of mountain herbs, the calm serenity of nature, natural products, without exaggeration, will cure many diseases.

Bathing water has a beneficial effect on the improvement of the respiratory, nervous and circulatory systems, bones and joints, and skin. Drinking water helps in the treatment of gastrointestinal problems, dissolves excess salts in the body, improves kidney function. You can take water procedures here all year round. In Loutra Pozare there are many cozy hotels, apartments with relatively low prices. Staying at this resort will give you maximum pleasure from water treatment, from walking through amazingly picturesque mountain landscapes, hospitality of local residents and delicious dishes. local cuisine from the freshest natural products.

Afytos village - a symbol of ancient Greece

If you want to visit ancient Hellas in reality, you need to go to the traditional Greek village of Afytos ( early name Afitis). Here you can see rare historical monuments era of the Neolithic. In ancient times, Afitis was an independent settlement that had its own currency, which is confirmed by the excavations of the Temple of Zeus and the Sanctuary of Dionysus. Locals called Afytos "stone balcony" for its location on a steep rocky slope that cuts into the Aegean Sea.

Already sailing to the village from the side of the bay, you can once and for all be enchanted by the fantastic view of the original houses from white stone, immersed in emerald tropical greenery, interspersed with bright spots of flower beds and lawns; white sand beaches and Cote d'Azur. For those who are tired of the frantic rhythms of city life, here is a real Eden, where calmness and the magical beauty of nature coexist.

Fans of antiquities can see the ruins of the temple of Zeus, the sanctuary of Dionysus, the ancient city of the Neolithic era. The main modern attractions of Afytos are the Church of St. Demetrius, Ethnographical museum, House of the artist Paraly, Katsanis mansion and other interesting objects.

Chalkidiki has long been the birthplace of vineyards and olive plantations, which is told by ancient manuscripts that mention the names of the first winegrowers and winemakers. On the slopes of Mount Meliton, they grew grapes and produced wine. In the 60s of the last century, Janis Karras decided to revive the ancient traditions, and soon the wild vegetation gave way to vineyards.

Now all western slope Meliton up to the Gulf of Toroney is covered with the richest vineyards (400 hectares) of the best wine varieties of white and red grapes. Karras winery produces branded wines under the brand name "Slopes of Meliton", the taste of which is highly appreciated by wine connoisseurs around the world.

The famous mountain, or rather, the mountain range, is the highest point in the northeastern part of Greece. Olympus is familiar to everyone since childhood as the abode of the all-powerful ancient Greek gods, who have chosen for themselves an inaccessible place under the clouds. How many myths have been built about their life, how many plots have been invented for movies and cartoons about the amazing, mysterious Olympus! The top of the mountain consists of 6 high peaks that have their own name: Mitikas (the highest - 2917 m), Skolio, Stephanie, Skala, Agios Antonios, Profitas Ilias (Ilya the Prophet - the lowest - 2803 m). Surrounded by the mythical snow-capped peaks of the Plateau of Muses and beautiful alpine meadows located just below.

The so-called "first finger" is closest to Thessaloniki, and therefore Kassandra is the most densely populated and visited cape of Chalkidiki. From the eastern, inner side, it is washed by the calm waters of the Gulf of Toroneos, from the outer, western side, by the waters of the Thermaic Gulf.

6 km from Mudanya is the "gate" of the peninsula, the village of Nea Potidea, built on the site of an ancient settlement. There is a canal connecting the two bays. The first mention of the canal dates back to the 1st century BC. e. The advantage of Potidea is the proximity to Thessaloniki and the opportunity to swim in both bays. Along the road leading to the Kassandra peninsula, there are hotel complexes such as Portes Palace Hotel, Istion Club luxury resort. The village itself is located on the right side of the road, and on the left - the beach (Paralia) Potidei with many small hotels and apartments.

Sled

On the side of the Thermaikos Gulf is the most elite place in Halkidiki - Sani. A whole fashionable village of Sani Resort awaits guests here. beautiful marina with luxury yachts, modern hotels, spa center, clothing and jewelry stores, restaurants and bars. And all around it are white sandy beaches and a piercing turquoise sea.
From July to September, the famous Sani Arts Festival is held against the backdrop of the medieval tower.

Along this side of the coast is the resort village of Siviri, which organically combines mountains and sea. Many try to get to the performances of the Kassandra Festival in the famous Siviri amphitheater, and admire the unique beauty of the sunsets.

The next resort is Fourkas Rock, beautiful beach surrounded pine forests and olive groves. Two kilometers from the beach is the old village of Fourka, with chapels decorated with frescoes from the 16th century.

Quiet place Nea Skioni, built on the site of ancient Skioni, founded by soldiers returning from the Trojan War and settled in this wonderful land.

Loutra

Settlement of Loutra, 5 km from the village of St. Praskeva, famous for hot thermal springs and a modern spa center.

In the southern point Kassandra is a quiet village of Paliouri, a favorite place for lovers of fishing.

There are also many popular resort towns on the east coast:
Pefkohori. Pevko, in Greek - pine, and this picturesque village is really immersed in fragrant pine forests. The pride of Sosnovka is the cleanest beaches with modern tourist infrastructure.

Chanioti is a large, very picturesque resort village, offering its guests wonderful conditions for recreation. Many hotels, various water sports, horse riding, many taverns, bars and cafes. At the end of summer, a traditional folklore festival is held in Hanioti.

seven kilometers sand beach, a lot of hotels, a mountain lake lost among coniferous forests with a rare species of turtles, attract many tourists to Polychrono.

Kallithea

A modern resort that justifies its name - " beautiful view". In addition to the wonderful beaches, Kallithea is famous for its nightlife: discos, clubs, bars are open until the morning. For lovers of archeology - the ruins of the ancient temples of Dionysus and Zeus.

Afitos

Narrow cobbled streets, interesting architecture, fountains create the unique flavor of Afytos. On central square you can visit the church of St. Demetrius and the museum of folk art.

A former fishing village, now a well-maintained resort village. Attraction - the tower of the Athos courtyard of the monastery of St. Paul. From the chapel there is an underground passage to the miraculous spring, where the Saint secretly baptized the inhabitants.

Unlike the noisy and crowded Kassandra, Sithonia offers a more relaxing holiday in a truly paradise. There are many wild, stunningly beautiful beaches, secluded coves, secluded between, overgrown with pines and junipers, mountain slopes.
On the way from Kassandra to Sithonia there are resort villages Metamorfosi - quiet and peaceful, and Nikiti, where you can visit ancient churches and taste the best honey in Macedonia.

The most popular town in Sithonia, a neat amphitheater going down to the emerald sea. Opposite is a small uninhabited island of Kelifos (Shell). Here is the largest tourist complex Porto Carras, in fact, is an independent tourist town. fashionable hotels, shops, casinos, entertainment centers, luxurious marina, golf courses, the famous Porto Carras Domaine winery - everything for an unforgettable vacation.

Visitors to this village are attracted not only by the golden sands and crystal clear waters of the beaches, but also by the surviving evidence of ancient history: the ruins of the acropolis in Likynthos, the remains of the fortress. Part of the ancient settlement is under water. Near Toroni is the picturesque bay of Porto Koufo, the largest natural bay in Northern Greece.

On the side of Sithonia facing Mount Athos is the colorful traditional village of Sykia, founded by sailors and pirates. You can enjoy a relaxing holiday on the beautiful beach of Krioritsi, visit the ruins of the old town, the historic church of St. Athanasius.
In the vicinity of Sykya and neighboring Kalamitsi, there are many well-maintained campsites.

A small cozy village with the famous Orange Beach. On August 15, three-day festivities are held dedicated to the feast of the Assumption of the Virgin.

Popular holiday destination Russian tourists. Unusual purity of the sea, changing color from azure to aquamarine. The nearby islet of Diaporos shelters Vourvourou from the waves. On the eastern side of the island is the beautiful Blue Lagoon.

Agios Nikolaos is a 30 km coastal zone with many amazing bays and bays with blue water framed by centuries-old pine trees. The village is an excellent example of traditional architecture, the merit of local masons. Interest is ancient acropolis on the Vetrino hill, the monastery of St. Nicholas, the chapel of St. George.
Near the village is the harbor of Ormos Panagias (Bay of the Mother of God), from where you can take a boat trip along the coast of Athos.

Holy Athos

The third "finger" of the Halkidiki peninsula is an amazing place, the only monastic republic in the world, the earthly destiny of the Virgin. Athos retains its pristine nature, untouched by civilization. There are 20 monasteries on Athos, one of them is St. Panteleimon, Russian. Orthodox relics - icons, books, manuscripts - are carefully stored in the monasteries.

A visit to St. Athos is allowed only for men and this requires a special pass - diamonitirion. It can be of two types - general, allowing you to visit all the monasteries, and private, for staying in one of them. You need to order a pass in advance, agreeing on the date of the visit, because 110 pilgrims are allowed in a day, and only 10 of them are foreigners. You can order it at the pilgrimage center of Athos in Thessaloniki (109 Egnatia Street) or call one of the monasteries directly. You can get the ordered pass at 7.30 in the morning at the pilgrimage office in Ouranoupoli, paying a tax of 25 euros. Then purchase a ticket for the ferry, which leaves at 9.45 am. Clothing must be appropriate - trousers and a long-sleeved shirt. Video filming is prohibited, photos - with the permission of the rector.
Women are not allowed to enter Mount Athos. There is even a 12-month prison sentence for violating this rule. You can only admire the Holy Place from a cruise ship.

Ouranoupoli in translation means "heavenly city" - a quiet resort town, a link between the mainland and Holy Athos. In the center, at the pier from which ferries leave for Athos, there is ancient tower Prosphoria. On the border with Athos - the Frankish castle. Intercity buses run to Ouranoupoli from Thessaloniki.
From Ouranoupoli, as well as from the neighboring village of Tripiti, you can get to the only inhabited island of Chalkidiki, Ammouliani.

Climate of Chalkidiki

The climate on the peninsula is Mediterranean subtropical. average temperature air temperature is 28 degrees, in the hottest months - July and August it rises to 35C, but the dryness of the climate makes it easy to endure the heat.
The peninsula is well protected from the wind by the mountains, so the sea is usually calm, with a water temperature of about 25 degrees. The holiday season starts in May and ends at the end of September.