Chalkidiki Peninsula

Home > Attività Isole > calcidica > Chalkidiki Peninsula

The Chalkidiki Peninsula is increasingly appreciated by those looking for a holiday that combines nature, history and authentic traditions. Until a few years ago, it was a little-known destination, but today it is increasingly loved by travellers who are starting to become curious and push themselves to discover it, which reveals an irresistible charm.

A Land of Myths and Legends

Located in northern Greece, the Chalkidiki Peninsula is a land steeped in mythology and history. Alexander the Great was born here, one of the greatest and youngest conquerors in history, who brought Greek culture to the borders of India, expanding the Greek world more than anyone else in the world. The shape of the peninsula, with its three “fingers” a natural extension of the mainland that extend into the Aegean Sea, represents not only a breathtaking landscape, but also a journey through time, through different eras. The ancient Athenians, Byzantine monks, Roman colonists and Ottomans passed through here, a beautiful mix of cultures that shaped and influenced the entire territory.

Greek mythology plays a fundamental role in the Chalkidiki Peninsula. According to legend, a titanic battle between Zeus and the Giants took place here. Kassandra takes its name from the leader of the colossi, while Sithonia owes its to the son of the God of the sea, Poseidon. Athos, on the other hand, derives its name from the giant who, challenging Zeus, threw a huge boulder at him.

A Journey Through History

Its origins date back to 200,000 years ago as evidenced by the Petralona skull found in 1960, and then moved on to the classical period when the ancient cities of Olynthos, Toroni Mende and Potidea were born. From the classical era, through the Roman Empire, the Byzantine Middle Ages, up to the Ottoman occupation, each period has shaped Chalkidiki, making it unique.

In 200 AD the Romans tried to invade the coastal cities but Philip the Macedonian King prevented their success and then fell in 168 AD, until the Byzantine period and then passed into the Middle Ages under monastic power. Then followed the Ottoman period, perhaps the most devastating for the Chalkidiki Peninsula. Ancient Byzantine monuments were destroyed, Muslim immigrants were imported to fill, sack the cities and impose heavy taxes, also plundering the products of the land such as silver, which was very present in Chalkidiki in ancient times. In 1821 a revolutionary force attempted to take back the Peninsula but was repressed by the Ottomans. In 1919 another defeat of Greece against Turkey led to other Greek Orthodox exiles expelled from Turkey making coexistence very difficult from many points of view. We arrive at the Second World War with the Nazi occupation that gave rise to a brutal civil war and then settled in the second half of the century liberating Halkidiki and making it grow economically thus becoming an important tourist destination.

Nature at its Best

The three “fingers” offer different and fascinating experiences. The beaches of the Halkidiki Peninsula are beautiful and have nothing to envy to tropical places as well as all the lush nature that surrounds this part of Greece. The first phalanx Kassandra, a popular destination for its lively nightlife and very close to Thessaloniki, we are talking about less than 100 kilometers, is a favorite place for weekends. A mix of rural life, fabulous sea, almost no wind and breathtaking natural beauty. Its beaches and its atmosphere make it a dynamic area perfect for both families with children and young people looking for fun, managing to satisfy everyone.

Sithonia in the center, and here we can say that Mother Nature has truly given the best of herself. Green heart of the Chalkica Peninsula with immense pine forests that reach the sea creating wonderful corners where the color of the vegetation and the blue of the sea create incredible optical games. Long beaches of golden or very white sand, small coves lapped by turquoise or emerald waters where you can abandon yourself and not think about anything, accommodation facilities and comforts for all budgets and crazy sunsets especially in Vorvourou that will leave you breathless.

And we arrive at the last finger the mystical Mount Athos, a pilgrimage destination and an extremely important area from a religious point of view so much so that it is considered almost with the Vatican for the Orthodox. A territory rich in monasteries there are twenty of them all with their particularities immersed in an uncontaminated and wild nature where peace reigns and you can breathe a magical atmosphere. Here there are six beautiful islets called Le Drenia, a sort of natural pools reachable only by boat where the water is something indescribable. The only sore point: Mount Athos is forbidden to the female universe, only men can visit it and I must have a special permit that must be requested several months in advance and for exclusively scientific or religious reasons. We ladies are only allowed to admire it from the sea at a distance of 500 meters.

A Cuisine to Discover

The cuisine of Halkidiki is an explosion of Mediterranean flavors. Fresh fish, olive oil, aromatic herbs and fine wines make every meal an unforgettable experience. From fish dishes in small seaside restaurants to traditional peasant specialties, every bite tells a story of authentic and genuine flavors.

Where to stay in the Halkidiki Peninsula

The Halkidiki Peninsula is all beautiful, every part of it has something different to offer. Kassandra is perfect for those who love nightlife and a slightly more lively holiday but always with dream beaches. One of the most popular is the Sani Beach and the Sani Club perfect for families given their location on the beach and with many activities for children. For something more refined instead the Miraggio Thermal Spa Resort, here the level is high, luxurious rooms and a thermal spa among the best. If instead you prefer a boutique experience Afitis Boutique Hotel.

In Sithonia, an area preferred by everyone for its incredible beaches you can choose from a large choice of hotels. For luxury without a doubt Danai Beach Resort & Villas with its elegant sites for the family or even for a romantic getaway directly on a sandy beach. For something simpler and cheaper without a doubt Aroma Studios a complex surrounded by greenery perfect for families with children for an independent holiday.

Mount Athos as you know is only open to men, but nearby you can still accommodate the fairer sex. Excellent Mount Athos Resort perfect for families or couples with its private beach. Another excellent solution is Avaton Luxury Beach Resort a truly luxurious location and with all the best services.

Why Visit the Chalkidiki Peninsula

The Chalkidiki Peninsula is the ideal destination for those looking for a different Greece, far from the most touristic destinations. Here, history, nature and culture blend together in a fantastic experience. Find out more about how to get to the Chalkidiki Peninsula, what to see and book now. The Chalkidiki Peninsula awaits you with its wonders! To better plan your holiday contact us, having direct contacts and living in Greece everything is much easier for us!