Products scents and Flavours of Halkidiki

Thanks to its climate and soil morphology, Halkidiki produces olives and olive oil that are renowned for their particular flavor and quality. Olive trees in Halkidiki are produced without the use of any chemicals. The high nutritional value and wonderful flavor of Halkidiki olives and olive oil have established these products as an integral part of the Mediterranean diet. The most important areas of production are Mt Meliton, Pallini peninsula, the foothills of Mt Holomon, and the plains of Polygyros, Ormylia, Olynthos and Moudania. The traditional goat cheese of Halkidiki is produced using pure goat milk and has a high protein content. Mt Holomon, where most stock farming units are located, has special soil and climate features and unique vegetation; these contribute to the favourable composition of the goat milk used to produce the cheese. The high quality of its nutrients make it deal for a wholesome, healthy diet. More than 2300 years ago, Aristotle praised honey and its benefits for humans, stating that honey extends human life expectancy. Today, the beekeepers of Halkidiki continue the tradition, utilizing the rich flora of Cassandra, Sithonia and North Halkidiki in the purest way, producing large quantities of honey that is renowned for its purity. The high content of trace elements in pine honey render it a highly nutritious honey products. Visitors have the opportunity to observe the traditional honey production method, to participate in farm work and to experience the beekeeper’s work and see beehives from up close.
Delicious fruit are the raw material for the famous jams and sweet preserves produced by the uniquely skilled women of Halkidiki. With the use of traditional production methods and the purest Greek varieties of grapes (Limnio, Roditis, Athiri, Assyrtiko), in these ideal climate conditions (xerothermic climate), Halkidiki has become a production centre for some of the finest wine varieties.

Halkidiki Greece

Halkidiki is the most original Macedonian region of Northern Greece. It is separated into three peninsulas: Cassandra, Sithonia and Mt Athos. There are two monumental mountains Mt Holomon and Mt Stratonikos. The regions soil is famous for its mineral wealth, known since antiquity for its manganese, cooper, iron, pyrite, bauxite and magnesite mines, as well as its hot springs with healing properties, such as that of Agia Paraskevi. Petralona Cave, known throughout the world, is worth visiting for its paleontological interest. There are numerous sites in the broader region of the Municipality, offering stunning findings and exhibits. Among them are: Ancient Acanthos, Mendi, Olynthos, Ancient Stagira and Ancient Toroni. The beaches of Halkidiki are captivativing, with their green-blue waters and wonderful find sand, rich vegetation and clean seas, many of which have been receiving a Blue Flag award every year. The region meets the needs of even the most demanding visitors, with its traditional hamlets and cosmopolitan holiday resorts with vibrant nightlife.
Accommodation is comfortable and pleasant, allowing visitors to choose between hotel complexes and units, furnished apartments, rented rooms, picturesque inns and organized camping sites. There are countless choises for fans of water sports, mountaineering, hiking and cycling. Holidays in Halkidiki provide a cosmopolitan atmosphere, natural beauty and picturesque serenity.

Lakes in Macedonia, Greece

This is the wonderful landscape of Macedonia, which is worth visiting.

Lake Kastoria

The landscape surrounding the Lake of Kastoria is amazing. The partially forested hills, wet meadows, reed-beds and marshes, the woods right by the edge of the lake, all make up this amazing view. There is also a canoeing centre.

Lake Kerkini

The wetlands – of the most important in Greece – provide nesting ground for aquatic birds. The lake is a reservoir for water, which can be used for irrigation. It is also used as a dam to control floods. This was done by the use of the water from the river Strimonas.

Prespes Lakes

Big Prespa and Small Prespa are 47 km away from Florina and 50 km away from Kastoria. The area has interesting sights: Byzantine churches (one of which dates back to the 10th century), lake-side caves, where Byzantine monks lived as hermits and icon-painted rocks of the 14th and 15th centuries. You can find accommodation at the farm shelters of Psarades and Agios Germanos and enjoy the local home made delicacies such as pies, jam, pasta and other. Also you can swim, go on boat rides, walk or go for an outing to the mountain of Vitsi where you can ski if you wish.

Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki is a modern city with the population of 1.000.000 inhabitants. It is the second largest city in Greece with a history dated back to 2.300 years. Thos cosmopolitan city offers a varied mix of trendy shops and waterfront cafes, a real delight for shoppers. Tsimiski Street is the main shopping area consisting of many well known named shops and large shopping malls.
At the main square of the city, Aristotelis Square you will come across many artists and side stalls where you can purchase a variety of handicrafts.
And for those wanting more than shopping there is the opportunity to take in the historical sights of the city. There is the chance to see White Tower (the symbol of the city), the Galerius Arch, the Rotonda Monument, the Citadel and ancient city walls from where you are presented with a panoramic view of the city spread out before you. There is placed Byzantine Church of Saint Dimitrios the patron saint of Thessaloniki.

White Tower Thessaloniki

The White Tower, which came to be the symbol of Thessaloniki by coincidence, was built in the late 15th century on the site of an older Byzantine tower, where the eastern wall and the sea wall met.

The White Tower is 33.9 m high and comprises a ground floor and six storeys with a turret at the top. Up until the early 20th century, the Tower was surrounded by a low octagonal wall, which was probably built in 1535/36; three of the corners were reinforced with smaller towers.

The Tower has had many names:
Lion’s Tower, in the 16th century
The Fortress of Kalamaria, in the 18th century
The Janissary Tower in the 19th century
The Blood Tower in 19th century, since it served as a prison and a place of execution for long terms convicts.

Its current name comes to be in 1890, when the Tower was whitewashed by a convict in exchange for his freedom.

After the liberation of Thessaloniki in 1912 and its unification with the Greek state, the White Tower has hosted the city’s air defense, the meteorological laboratory of Aristotle University and various Sea Scout groups.
In 1983, the Tower was ceded to the Ministry of Culture and its restoration began; this project was awarded the Europa Nostra prize in 1988. From 1985 onwards, it has operated as an exhibition venue.

Paxi Island – Greece

The Island of Paxi, having a big mythology, is bathing, like another Venus, just very close to Corfu, in the Ionian Sea.
Paxi is an island full of natural beauties, capturing any visitor. Saint Nikolas castle, Madonna’s cloister on the homonym island, Erimitis, Karama, Ypapanti, Ellinospita, Ortholithos, Graves, Ahai, the Museum, the Gallery, the Mills, the Basins, the Lighthouses, Vatoumi, Vrika are some of the sightseeing the visitor may enjoy.
Paxi is an island full of olive trees, its population survived for centuries on this blessed tree, which used to be not only a source of living but also a mean for development and evolution. Today, tourism is the major source of income at Paxi local economy.
Now on, transport from and to Corfu and Igoumenitsa is daily. Among the island’s customs which survive until today are: the stock on 15th of August, which is distributed for free on the small island of Madonna Koulouma at Lakka with pagan dances and songs, the First Resurrection at Saint Giakoumo of Fountana, where they hit regularly the pews, the Processions after Easter, Labates of Sent John etc.
Certainly the island offers many enjoyable choices and the visitor shall be fully satisfied.

Thasos – the greenest island of Aegean Sea

According to mythology, the first person to inhabit the island was Thasos, a young man, who happened upon the island during his quest to find Europe, the daughter of Aginoros. Zeus was so deeply in love with her that he kidnapped her to enjoy her company for ever. Thasos, according to Herodotus, was unable to find her, but was seduced by the beauty of the island, settled there together with his company, and thus the island was ever since named after him.
Recent excavations, tools and fragments of ceramic, prove that Thasos was originally inhabited in the first instance, during the Paleolithic period, 2 to 3 million years ago. Later, it was the Phoenicians that settled on the island in 15th century BC. They were traders. They were attracted by rich gold mines, which many people have searched for since, but also by the abundant lumber, which still exists today, and enables the local boat builders to continue their trade.
Nowadays, Thasos is a unique tourist resort, with modern hotels, numerous private rooms, studios, apartments and private villas to let, camping sites beautifully located within pine trees with their own private access to the sea shore, a complete and well maintained road network and regular access to the mainland, just across the strait, both via a regular and all year round Ferry boat and Flying Dolphin service.
The friendly and hospitable people of Thasos have many ancient Greek traditions and deep religious beliefs and they preserve the folkways and mores and traditional forms of culture through their respect and love of arts and music. Not least amongst the traditions that they have preserved is that of the love of foreigners and strangers. Their hospitality will both amaze and overwhelm all visitors.
The annual summer festival, one of the most highly regarded festivals in Greece, presents high quality performances all around the island. Amongst the main attractions are the plays – by both ancient and modern writers – that are held in the Ancient Theatre. This, due to its location, high up of the town, has an unparalleled view over the beautiful harbor, the blue sea and the surrounding town, and the foothills of the mountains. In addition, there are also gigs and concerts by well known Greek or foreign artist in breathtaking locations such as the archaeological sites of the ancient Agora and the sanctuary of Dioskouri in Limenas, the site Metallia in Limenaria and many, many others – all equally beautiful and equally renowned – all around the island.
There are also, regular, art, photographic and other cultural exhibitions held in Kalogeriko (the beautiful and traditionally renovated cultural centre of Limenas, located by the ancient harbor). Tarsanas (in Potamia), Palataki (in Limenaria) and ancient sites and buildings also host their own festivals and festivities.
Throughout the year many traditional, cultural and folklore events, such as the Thasian Wedding in August, events with the unique reenactment of Dionysian customs, which are held in many of the villages around the island during the Greek Carnival in February, and which are still such an integral part of the ordinary lives of Thasian people, are organized by the folklore unions on the island which are so successful in preserving traditions that otherwise might be lost.
The island offers every type of beach that one could wish for shallow waters with sandy beaches abutted by pine trees, not easily accessible by road, tiny gulfs and rocky promontories, spotlessly clean pebble beaches, wide expanses of sand and well maintained public beaches, with numerous beds and umbrellas to satisfy every need. The choice is there for peaceful family vacations, exciting water sports, beach games or just simply relaxing in the peace and quiet of the beautiful surroundings.
The hills and mountains and the network of the hiking trails, within pine forests, offer the perfect opportunity for hiking and climbing amongst some of the most beautiful and most natural scenery in northern Greece. There is the possibility to undertake mountain bike riding, cycling along the coast road, motto cross or quad bike driving, while the sea is always close for swimming, sailing, diving, cruises, or fishing in traditional fishing boats. There are a total of 11 harbors and fishing shelters around the island. This combined with the countless beautiful gulfs and emerald waters (the twin natural harbors in Aliki, the deep sandy bays of Golden Beach, and Tripiti and the bay of Kefalas) are ideal destinations for those who wished to visit this island by boat.
Another unexpected attraction of the island is the large number of old churches and monasteries that are always of interest for those who want to research the past and the present of religion. The monastery of Archangels, located on the south-east of the island, built precariously on the steep rocky side of the mountain, gives a feeling that it is hanging right into the sea, the Church of the Virgin Mary in the mountain village of Panagia, the monastery of St Panteleimon close to the beautiful village of Kazaviti, Panagouda, close to the village of the same name, Maries, Agios Athanasius in Kastro built back in medieval times and Agios Dimitrios in Theologos are just few of the examples of the religious monuments on Thasos that are bound to inspire awe and humility in many visitors.
In short, an island of superb natural beauty, friendly and hospitable people with their lives very firmly based in the traditions of Greek village life, modern facilities, plentiful accommodation to suit every pocket and every need, sophisticated shops, bars and restaurants, easy and frequent access and all this relatively unknown to mass tourism.
Thasos is known to those who have already discovered its beauty, as the jewel of the Aegean, the emerald island. It is the most northerly island in the Aegean Sea, located just 12 nautical miles from the ports of Kavalla and Nea Peramos and 6 nautical miles from Keramoti and the Nestos River delta.
It is mountainous and densely wooded. The lower slopes of the mountain, covered by pine forests and olive groves seem to tumble into the sea, around the perimeter of the 100 km of the beautiful coastline of the island, with its numerous beaches, inlets and estuaries. It has wide sweeping big sandy expanses of beach, smaller sandy bays, tiny coves with rocks and pebbles, beaches which just constitute the fine white powdery marble sand which is like talcum powder, and even rocky outcrops, were one can be as secluded or with friends as one wishes. The climate is a mild Mediterranean climate, with cool summers and shorter mild winters.
In the administrative and commercial capital, both known as Thasos and Limenas, which is located in the most northerly point of the island, as well as in Limenaria, the second town of this island, located in the south, tourist and locals can find all the public services and facilities that they might require, (health centers, police and coast guard stations, post office and telecommunications, petrol stations, tourist information offices …). In fact, everything that you might not immediately think of but which are essential to ensure that the infrastructure is in place, to enable you to have an enjoyable and stress free visit.

Samothraki Island

From the harbor at Alexandroupolis visitors can board the ferry for Samothraki. After 2.5 hours at sea the boat arrives at Kamariotissa.
Hora (Samothraki) is 5km east of the harbor, built among hills providing protection from winds and the pirate raids which were a common feature of centuries past. At the edge of Hora the Byzantine castle looks down from its natural rocky elevation. It was begun in the 10th century and completed in 1430 by the Gattilusi, the Genoans who had taken possession of the island. In 1456 the island became a part of the Ottoman Empire. The houses – two-story buildings with tile roofs, and some with the old-style roofs of pocked earth – are so arranged as not to stand in one another’s light. Hora has a Folklore Museum, in a restored house next to the church. The village, of particular architectural interest, was declared a protected traditional community in 1978.
The history of the island is lost in the mists of time. The first inhabitants of Samothraki were Pelasgians, but in historical times the population was a mixture of Ionian and Aeolian elements. In the 7th century BC the people of Samothraki built a series of cities on the coast opposite – what Herodotus called the walls of Samothraki: Mesimvria, Drys, Zoni, Sali, etc.
The island was an important religious centre for the whole Mediterranean because of the fame of the Sanctuary of the Great Gods and the mysteries associated with their cult. The Great Gods were also known as the Kaveiroi, and their sanctuary has survived at the ancient city at the site known as Paliapolis, in the northern part of the island, a small distance from Kamariotissa.
The part of Samothraki has large hotels, many rented rooms, restaurants, fish taverns, grills serving the unique local kid roasted on the spit, cafés, night clubs and bars and whatever else the visitor could ask. To the west of the town is the island’s wind park and next to it the small lagoon of Agios Andreas, a resting place for migratory birds and of great ecological importance. The visitor can use the part of Kamariotissa as a base from which to explore the ancient civilization and unique natural beauties of the island.
The road from Kamariotissa to the north-east of the island leads to the Palaiopolis archeological site. The tour of the site begins at the small parking lot in front of the little Agia Paraskevi Church. A stone-paved walkway leads to the Sanctuary of the Great Gods. To the east, high up on the slopes, we can see the walls (6th-3rd century BC) of the ancient city. In the eastern part of the ancient city harbor we can still see the remains of an early Christian basilica, built to commemorate the visit of the Apostle Paul (49-50 AD). Towering above the harbor and basilica are the city’s Mediterranean fortifications, dating from the period of the Gattilusi (1431-1433). The visitor to the archaeological site can make use of a specially laid path around the antiquities, inspecting the Palace (early palace period), the Tholos of Arsinoe II (288-270 BC), the Building of the Dancers (around 340 BC), the Sanctuary (325-150 BC), the Monument of Nike (1st half of 2nd century BC) etc. There is also a museum on the site where the visitor can see finds mainly from the Sanctuary of the Great Gods. Most striking among them are the cast of the Nike of Samothraki (the original is in Louvre, Paris), architectural reconstructions of the main sanctuary buildings, many vases, pieces of jewellery, figurines, etc.
Farther east, continuing along the coastal road, we come to the community of Kariotes and then, after a few kilometers to Therma. Here we find the thermal sulphureous springs which have made the spa renowned for its therapeutic qualities since Byzantine times. The village is in a marvelous area of outstanding natural beauty, densely planted with plane trees, chestnuts, arbutus and myrtle. The rich vegetation encountered all across the island is due to the many water courses and streams which descend the slopes of Mt Saos, whose summit, Fengari, is 1.664m above sea level. From the village there is a path to the summit; the climb takes about three-and-a-half hours and offers superb views of the mountain landscape. At Therma there are fine hotels, rented rooms and excellent food in the local taverns.
After Therma we come to the two municipal camping sites of the island: one an unsupervised site set in a lush natural setting with plane trees, the other an organized site with all modern facilities.
Driving on we come to the river Fonias, alongside which a natural path leads the visitor through beautiful riverside greenery. After walking 45 minutes we come to the imposing waterfall. As it rushes down the water has formed natural cavities in which we can enjoy a cooling bathe. Close to the mouth of the river are the remains of the Fonias Tower, built by the Gattilusi in 1431.
The road ends at the Kipos promontory, with the enchanting beach of the same name, one of the finest on the island with fine shingle and crystal-clear, tranquil waters.
The road from Kamariotissa to the south of the island brings us to the village of Alonia, from where it continues through hills covered in olive groves. This side of the island is excellent terrain for olive-growing with its mild climate and Mt Saos sheltering it from the cold winds.
At Mikro Vouni, at the mouth of the Polypoudi stream, south-west of the village of Alonia, the mound of a prehistoric settlement has been identified dating from the end of the 6th millennium – 1700 BC. The find of Minoan seals here caused a sensation, as well as some clay “documents” from a Minoan (perhaps Knossan) archive; this was the first time such finds had been unearthed so far from Crete. It seems that the Minoan presence on Samothraki was intended to secure commercial control of the broader region of the north-eastern Aegean.
After the village of Lakkoma we pass through the district of Koitada and Platydentro. A little farther down a turning leads off to the Chapel of Panayia Krimniotissa, perched on a high rock. The chapels of the island are a distinctive feature of the Samothraki landscape; local tradition claims that they are exactly 999 in number.
This superb route brings is finally to the beach of Pachia Ammos, an ideal place to swim and unwind, with a marvelous view of the island of Imbros.
The south-eastern coast of Samothraki is rugged and steep, with the slopes of Mt Saos coming down to the shoreline. It is an area of rare ecological importance and natural beauty, only accessible from the sea. The sea caves of the area are a refuge for one of Greece’s rarest mammals, the Mediterranean Monk Seal. At Kremasto, with its lofty rocks, there is a waterfall whose waters – winter or summer – rush foaming into the deep blue sea: a truly remarkable spectacle.

Thassos Island

Thassos, the most verdant of the northern Aegean islands, was colonized at a very early date – owing to its privileged position and rich deposits of gold and marble – by the Phoenicians (1600 – 1500 BC) and later by sailors from Paros (7th century BC). From the 6th to the 4th century BC Thassos enjoyed great prosperity, of which we see irrefutable evidence in the remains of ancient Thassos which are to be found to the east of the capital of the island, Limenas. The ancient city of Thassos had two harbors – one for fighting vessels and one for commerce. In front of the naval harbor lay the ancient agora, surrounded by three great porticoes to the north-west and south-east, while to the north-east lie the ruins of the courthouse, the Tholos, storehouses, a small, oblique portico and an early Christian basilica. To the east of the agora, walking towards the acropolis, we can make out the remains of the Sanctuary of Dionysus (5th century BC) and a little farther on the sanctuary of Poseidon (4th century BC). The specially laid ascending path leads to the ancient theatre (5th century BC), with a unique view of the sea, which was converted into an arena in Roman times. From the theatre the path leads to the remains of the acropolis and the temple of Athena, protector of the city (6th – 5th century BC). Finally, the visitor must call in at the recently renovated Thassos Archaeological Museum, containing the remarkable finds excavated at the ancient city: the statues of a young man bearing a ram, Aphrodite with a dolphin, the head of Dionysus, etc.
Thassos is now a beautiful tourist destination, with easy access from Kavala or Keramoti by hydrofoil or ferry boat, with excellent roads and superb amenities for all visitors.
Thassos has everything needed to offer a unique holiday experience: unrivalled beauty, roads winding along a magical coastline, opportunities for excursions to beach or mountain, a natural setting in which the visitor can unwind and surrender utterly to peace and tranquility.
The island people are hard-working. They fish and till the soil, but also produce ceramic ware, weave and engage in all sorts of other crafts.
The main town of the island, Limenas, is a small, picturesque location which is steadily developing into a tourist destination known throughout Greece and beyond. There are hotels and rented rooms in the town centre and on the outskirts. At specially selected points around the town, where there is a fine view of the sea, the visitor will find little taverns serving delicious appetizers, as well as tourist shops with every imaginable kind f souvenir. There are a fair number of organized beaches for swimming, such as those at Glyfada and Glyfoneri, as well as Makryammos just outside Limenas.
The coast road and the little streets of the town are perfect for an afternoon stroll. One of the most picturesque parts of the town is the old harbor with its fishing vessels, dominated by the “Kaloyeriko”, built by monks from the Vatopedi Monastery of Mt Athos in the late 19th century.
The road around the island offers an ideal drive for the tourist. Setting off eastwards from Limenas we pass the magnificent Makryammos beach, with its turquoise sea and immaculate sand. This is one of the oldest tourist’s spots on the island, with restaurants, bars, tennis courts, pools, etc. You can also get here by boat from Limenas and enjoy a beautiful sail along the coast.
Next we come to Panayia, one of the best-known traditional communities on the island. The village owes its name to the church of the Panayia on the central square, with its huge shady plane trees, running water and picturesque little cafés serving the traditional preserved walnuts for which Thassos is famous. A number of traditional houses have been preserved, with their characteristic slate roofs, lending the whole village a distinctive feel.
Just a short distance from Panayia is the most popular organized beach on the island, Chrysi Ammoudia. Bathers can enjoy the wonderful emerald water, reminiscent of a tropical island, or can take part in the many sports available on the beach. There are modern hotels and rented rooms, restaurants and taverns – everything the visitor needs for a comfortable stay.
To the south we come to the village of Potamia, built on the pine-clad slopes of Mt Ypsari. Inside the village, housed in a two-story stone building, is the Museum dedicated to the famous sculptor Polygnostos Vagis, a native of Thassos. The collection includes both sculptures and paintings by the artist. From Potamia one can climb up to the top of Ypsari, following an incredibly beautiful path, through the forest. Just a short distance from the village is Skala Potamias, an organized beach with tourist shops, taverns, etc.
One of the island’s finest beaches is to the south, on the little peninsula of Alyki. Here the enchanted visitor will find a stunning bay, a miniature paradise, with little taverns. On the high ground of the peninsula are the remains of two early Christian basilicas (5th century AD) and an ancient marble quarry. On the other side of the bay is a deserted beach for undisturbed bathing, and close to the shore are the remains of the Sanctuary of the Dioscuri (7th century BC).
Close to Astrida, in the south-eastern part of the island, stands the convent of the Archangel Michael, one of the best-known places of pilgrimage on the island. With its glorious climate and healthy water the area of Astrida is the perfect location for relaxing holidays, enjoying all the amenities of the modern hotels which have been built here.
Continuing our tour around the island we come to the village of Potos which, with its organized beach, is one of the island’s most important tourist resorts. From here there is a road turning inland to the traditional community of Theologos, which owes its name to an earlier settlement here of monks from Mt Athos. It is one of Thassos’ largest villages, old water-mills and dense vegetation.
The organized beach at Pefkari, in the south-western part of the island, is a stunningly beautiful location, with the characteristic landscape of pines stretching right down to the shore.
Limenaria, our next stop, is a large village which began to expand in the 19th century and is now a very pleasant tourist resort. It has a folklore Museum, housed in what were once the commune administrative offices in the centre of the village.
North of Limenaria we come to Skala Marion, from the road leads inland to the village of Maries, and then on to the unique Lake Yenna wetland.
The coast road takes us on to Skala Kallirachis and Skala Sotiros, where one can visit the Monastery of Agios Panteleimon.
To the north we pass through Prinos, one of the most important areas of the island, since oil was discovered just off-shore. From the harbor (Skala Prinou) next to the village, the boats leave for Kavala. The visitor will find luxury hotels and rented rooms, beautiful beaches and verdant landscapes with pine trees which make Prinos one of the most popular destinations for visitors to the island.
Taking the road out of Prinos we come to the village of Kazaviti, the most important of all the island’s traditional communities, with beautiful stone houses; the visitor will be delighted by the characteristic balconies and the painted ceilings. The village offers shade, excellent food and coffee, or one can take a stroll through the beautiful forest just outside the village.
Finally our drive brings us to the village of Rahoni, which, together with its harbor (Skala Rahoniou) and the tiny village og Agios Georgios, make up the commune of Rahoni. It is one of the quietest and most remote villages on the island. Formerly the inhabitants of Agios Georgios were more numerous than those of Rahoni, and lived at a distance from the coast because of frequent pirate raids; but later, when the danger had passed, they settled lower down. The founder of the Egyptian dynasty, Mehmet Ali, was raised in the village of Agios Georgios, later moving to Kavala. Skala Rahoniou, like the other skalas or fishing villages of the island, had been developed for tourism and offers visitors all the usual amenities.

Halkidiki

Forming extensions off Northern Greece into the Aegean Sea, Halkidiki proudly boasts some of the most beautiful beaches, and long spectacular coastlines overlooked by mountains with rich, colorful and lush vegetation.
Halkidiki is surrounded by water on three sides and to the south it juts out three peninsulas of similar size and orientation (Kassandra, Sithonia, and Athos). It is famous for its natural beauty which can offer a memorable holiday for those seeking bustling resorts or settings of relaxed and captivating scenery.
The northern region, adjacent to central Macedonia, is dominated by the mountain range of Holomondas (115 m height). The peaceful and fresh uplands are covered by dense forests while the lower slopes are set against a beautiful backdrop of meadows, pine, and cypress and olive trees.
The rest of the countryside comprises rolling hills of farmland and a coastline of sandy beaches with crystal clear waters. Beaches are long and gentle in the west while more secluded in the south and east. Important ancient sites not to be missed are the spectacular cave of Petralona, the excavated town of Olynthos, the museum of Poligiros, the birth place of philosopher Aristotle, and a number of towers. The larger towns and ports of Halkidiki are also to be found here.

Kassandra is the most western prong and practically an island as it is separated from the mainland by the Channel of Potidea. The top part of this prong is rolling farmland while moving south the landscape changes to higher hills covered with lush pine forests. Along the coastline lie numerous excellent long sandy beaches and popular resorts providing a wide range of facilities and entertainment. The western coast is less developed and even less is the inland countryside which is an especially attractive hilly area covered by forests and typical Mediterranean shrub vegetation.

Sithonia is the middle prong. It is famous for its natural beauty and dramatic views. Its backbone is a mountain range reaching a height of 750 m. Most of the slopes are covered with lush Mediterranean forests which reach the twisting, idyllic seashore with its numerous sheltered sandy beaches. The eastern side is particularly rich in vegetation while the western side is relished with vineyards and rocky outcrops of unusual shape. Preserved inland villages provide an extra interest to the area.

Athos (Holy Mountain)
Is a mountainous area dominated by the peak of Mt Athos (2000m). It s been an area devoted to monastic life and worshipping since the 10th c. Nowadays, it hosts 20 monasteries of remarkable architecture located in spectacular settings. Female visitors are not allowed in this area while Male visitors have to apply for a visit.
Resorts and towns
Along coastline of verdant landscapes and magnificent sandy beaches have made Halkidiki a very popular holiday destination. Small fishing villages have grown into resorts in the last twenty years. These memorable settings can now cater for a large number of visitors, providing ample accommodation (from luxury hotels to camping sites), an abundance of eating places (Greek and international cuisine), shopping, lively entertainment and sports. The large number of resorts and villages makes the choice wider and gives the possibility of finding quiet places, even in the high season.
Other than the main resorts there are smaller resorts suitable for a quiet holiday, in picturesque settings by the sea or inland. These are peaceful hideaway places except from mid July to mid August when they tend to attract a higher numbers of visitors. Halkidiki has a number of interesting towns, most of them to be round in the northern part. Poligiros (population 5.000) is the capital of Halkidiki and lies on a southern slope of Mt. Holomondas. Arnea (38 km from Poligiros) is a small market town famous for its well preserved architecture and handicrafts. Nea Moudania (population 6.000) and Nea Moudania (population 4.000) are two modern towns on the west coats. They are important commercial centers and fishing ports. Agios Nikolaos (population 3.000) and Kasandria (population 4.000) are smaller towns with well preserved old houses and alleyways. Neos Marmaras (population 2.500) is a small seaside town and busy resort with scenic surroundings. Ierissos (population 3.000), a small seaside town and resort and a busy fishing port.

Beaches
Stretching over 850km, the coastline of Halkidiki has an abundance of unspoiled beaches varying in size and shape from long open stretches to small cove-like hideaways. In many parts the beaches are overlooked by trees and shrub vegetation making it easier to provide shade from the hot sun, while many large resorts have water sports facilities. For the busier beaches, head to the east side of the Kassandra peninsula, to the south-western coast of the northern part and the beaches near Neos Marmaras on Sithonia. On the other hand, for those seeking quieter and less crowded settings, these are to be found in the west side of Kassandra, on most of Sithonia and the south-eastern coast of the northern part of Halkidiki.

Greek Cuisine
Greek food has a long history and has developed a lot through morals and traditions of the Greek people. Examples of such an influence can be seen in the number of special dishes prepared on certain days all over Greece: the meals according to fasting before Easter, fried cod and garlic dip on the day of Annunciation, sweet bread and colored eggs on Maundy Thursday, lamb on the spit and lamb soup on Easter Sunday, the biscuits and pudding from grape juice in September. Lunch is from 1pm to 3pm while dinner is normally late in the evening from 9pm to midnight.
Meals are served in taverns and restaurants. The distinction between the two is not very clear but the former tends to have a more relaxed atmosphere and service can be cheaper than the latter. Pizzerias serve a wide range of pizzas and a selection of pasta dishes. Service charge is always included in the price of the menu. Ordering and eating a meal in the Greek way can be a unique experience as it is common for the food and particularly the starters to be shared by all around the table. A full meal would consist of starters which can be a very filling part and a difficult task to choose from the big range of dips, pies, fried vegetables, salads, salted fish and fried seafood. The main course can be meat, fish, poultry, cooked vegetables, all accompanied by salads. Desserts and coffee of a better quality can be found in one of the many pastry shops which stay open from morning to around 2am. For a snack, there are take away shops serving bread, pita or pancakes with various fillings, pizza slices and burgers. There is a wide range of fish to choose from. Small are usually fried, while large ones are barbequed and served with oil and lemon as a dressing. Fish can be chosen from the kitchen, its freshness can be checked by its eyes which should be clear but not cloudy, and the body firm to touch. The Greek breakfast consist of fresh bread with honey or jam, cheese on toast, cheese and ham sandwich, and a range of pies and fruits. It is often served in sweet shops and some take-away shops. The ones in resort are likely to serve omelets and fried breakfast too.
There are different styles of wine to try which are produced locally and throughout the rest of the country. Wine can be ordered with a meal at a tavern, restaurant or at a bar. It is also possible to order the house wine or retsina wine at a tavern. It is popular to accompany starters with strong drinks such as ouzo or tsipouro. Greek people drink mainly herbal tea. Black tea is not a common drink but can be found in cafes in resorts or big towns. You need to order fresh milk if you want to add it to your tea. You can find all types of coffee ranging from instant, filtered, ice coffee, the famous Greek coffee, and recently expresso.

Traveling through time
For visitors who wish to experience the history of Halkidiki there are many sites dating from the recent or ancient past. Churches and monasteries have always been places of particular importance in the life of Greek people and so many have been preserved for centuries. Some of the oldest churches in the area are:

- Panagia (Virgin Mary)(19th c.) on the road from Megali Panagia to Gomati
- Agia Paraskevi (19th c.) in Galatista
- Panagia Faneromeni (17th c.) 2 km south of Nea Skioni
- Panagia (17th c.) 1 km west of Kalandra
- Taxiarhon (19th c.) 1 km south of Potidea
- Agios Dimitros (19th c.) in Athitos
- Agios Athanasios (18th c.) in Sikia
- Agios Pavlos (19th c.) 10 km south of Nikiti

Other old structures include towers, castles and remains of ancient towns. The best excavated town is Olinthos which in ancient times played a significant role. Today one can appreciate and see the well organized layout of the town in a rectangular pattern, the well-preserved mosaics and paving. The ancient town of Stagira is located in the north-east of Halkidiki and is famous as the birth place of the philosopher Aristotle (4th c BC). The castle of Lecythus dates from the Byzantine period and stands on a small peninsula at the southern end at the bay of Toroni. In Nea Potidea there are remains of the fortification which used to separate the peninsula of Kassandra from the rest of Halkidiki. The channel of Potidea was mentioned from the 1st c. AD. The shape of the channel as seen today was constructed in the 1930s.
There are a large number of towers scattered all over Halkidiki that were built to protect land that was owned by monasteries on Mount Athos. Such towers are:
Phosphorion (14th c.) is the biggest and best preserved tower standing on the sea front of Ouranoupolis, Krouna (height 15m) 2 km north of Ierissos, Agios Nikolaos (height 15m) dating from the 14th c., 4 km north of Olintos, Zografou (14th c.), Galatista (14th c.), Agios Pavlos (height 17m) dating from the 14th c. in Nea Fokea, Stavronikita (height 8m) dating from the 16th c. in Sani. The lighthouse of Possidi was built in the late 19th c. and stands on a wide sandy beach.
There are villages and small towns which have maintained their local character and even today one can admire the architecture of the houses and beauty of their location.
The cave of Petralona is famous for its stalagmite formations and findings which prove that human life existed 700.000 years ago.
Local fairs and religious celebrations are excellent opportunities for visitors to mingle with locals, join in Greek dances and taste the local cuisine. Every year on last Sunday of July brave Greek and other origin swimmers take part in the crossing of the Toroneos gulf.