Explore the Enchanting Areas and Villages of Halkidiki
They say that nowhere in Greece can boast beaches quite like those of Halkidiki.
This region encapsulates the perfect harmony of the distinctive Greek light, unspoiled landscapes, vibrant colors, and captivating fragrances. It stands as one of the best places for a truly unforgettable vacation. Throughout the entire peninsula, numerous rentals and accommodations await, ensuring a comfortable and memorable stay.
The glorious natural setting is further enhanced by the rich culinary offerings of the region. Indulge in the delectable flavors and textures that characterize the local cuisine, providing a gastronomic journey that complements the breathtaking scenery.
Beyond the culinary delights, Halkidiki is steeped in living religious traditions, evident in a myriad of feast days, ceremonies, and rituals. Immerse yourself in the cultural tapestry of the region as you witness and partake in these vibrant expressions of local heritage.
Come and experience the magic of Halkidiki—a destination where the beauty of nature, the richness of cuisine, and the depth of cultural traditions converge to create an extraordinary and unforgettable journey.
All Villages: Nea Moudania, Nea Kallikrateia, Agios Mamas, Nea Flogita, Nea Triglia, Sozopoli, Olynthos, Nea Heraklia, Nea Gonia, Agios Pavlos.
All Villages: Pefkochori, Hanioti, Kallithea, Polychrono, Kryopigi, Nea Potidea, Nea Fokea, Sani, Fourka, Possidi, Siviri, Afytos, Nea Skioni etc.
All Villages: Nikiti, Sarti, Vourvourou, Neos Marmaras, Parthenonas, Ormos Panagias, Agios Nikolaos, Sykia, Porto Koufo, Toroni etc
All Villages of Athos Municipality of Halkidiki: Ouranoupoli, Ammouliani Island, Ierissos, Nea Roda.
All islands you can visit in Halkidiki
Ammouliani Island
Ammouliani is a little island in the gulf of the Athos peninsula. It is the only populated island in Halkidiki. It covers an area of about 4.5 square kilometers, is 120 km away from Thessaloniki, and is connected to the shore across the sea, Tripiti, through regular ferryboat routes lasting 10 minutes. Green is prevalent on the island, which is covered with olive trees and undergrowth. Its isolated gulfs are the ideal destination for those wishing for peace and rest. The best choice is for you to visit all beaches of the island, even the most secluded, as they are renowned for their sky-blue waters.
The most well-known beach is Alikes, which has been awarded a blue flag for its clean waters, followed by Agios Georgios, Megali Ammos, Karagatsia, etc. In 1925, after the genocide of the Greek population in Asia Minor, the island was allotted to refugees from the Sea of Marmara Islands (Gallimi, Pasalimani, Skoupia). The refugees brought their knowledge of the trade of fishing along, which is the main occupation of the local population till today. Especially impressive is the church of St. Nikolaos, built in 1865 at the town square, as well as the old school hosting the folk culture museum. On the island of Amouliani, you can find restaurants/taverns, coffee shops/bars, supermarkets, souvenir shops, nightclubs, and establishments letting motorcycles and boats. The beautiful, sky-blue water beaches of many creeks, where you can enjoy a clean sea with a rich water world, are waiting for you to explore them.
Kelifos (Turtle) Island
The small piece of land you see floating on the waters of Toroneos Gulf between the Sithonia and Kassandra peninsulas in Halkidiki is Kelifos Island. The uninhabited small island covers an area of 1 square meter and inhabitants of Kelifos island are wild goats but it is best known for its spectacular seabed. Kelifos Island is full of pines and wild olive trees and has many steep slopes and coasts. The steep cliffs around the island are forming interesting caves in some spots, calling you for exploration!
The one and only beach of the island, with its crystal clear blue waters, is a great place for swimming and snorkeling. One can access the island through the sea, by boat or sailing boat from Sithonia (Neos Marmaras, Nikiti) or Kassandra peninsula. The waters surrounding this uninhabited island offer several different dive sites. The seabed of the turtle island is highly diverse and more than 10 spots are suitable for scuba diving. This area impresses divers with rich underwater fauna and flora – corals, sea anemones, starfish, conger eels, morays, scorpionfish, seahorses, and octopi.
The Drenia Islands
Surrounded by several small islands that serve as a barrier from the waves and the wind, this vivid aquamarine-colored lagoon called Drenia will make you think you are at the height of bliss! The Drenia islands, or Gaidouronisia as the locals refer to it, are a group of 6 small islands off the southern tip of Ammouliani Island and not far from Ouranoupolis on the mainland. Such is the beauty and calmness of this place that in the last years it has started to become a magnet attracting more than just the locals. The six islands that make up Drenia are actually more like two islands and four rocky crags that rise from the sea. The rocks don’t have much appeal for those in search of beaches but are home to many sea birds nesting on the rocks and a variety of fish that find protection here. The small islands help to form a ring that surrounds an elevated sandy seafloor and makes a large shallow swimming basin. Due to the shallow waters of the lagoon, only small boats are able to reach some of these beautiful sandy beaches.
The main island is Drenia. This consists of two forested hills that are surrounded by sea cliffs on three sides, but on the lagoon side, there is a lovely, fine sand beach. This is Drenia’s main beach and the one that tourists are now flocking to for day trips. To cater to the day-trippers from Ouranoupolis, a taverna was built and the sunbeds and umbrellas were carefully placed to form a well-organized day resort so you can just lie in the sun, sip on a cool margarita and indulge. For lunch the taverna will give you a taste of the day's catch – fresh fish or steamed mussels.
Diaporos Island
Diaporos Island is right across Vourvourou village in the Sithonia peninsula. The bay is deep enough for large yachts and the natural beauty of the location is astonishing. With a few adorable houses here and there, it's a place worth exploring and is ideal for a picnic. There are many reefs where one can snorkel in crystal clear water. Diaporos belong to a complex of islets together with Kalogria, Ambelitsi, Kalamonisia (3), Prassonisi, Peristera, Agios Isodoros. One can reach them by renting a private boat (no license needed) or paddle your own canoe to explore the several secluded coves surrounded by pine trees and sandy beaches.
Diaporo Island is about one and a half square miles and it's the largest one of the complex. It's a picturesque islet with natural beauty, trees reaching the sea, pristine blue waters and a fascinating underwater world. Because of the location, Diaporos has always calm and warm waters all year round making it, a paradise for those who swim in the winter.