Halkidiki Holiday
Halkidiki's three peninsulas thrust into the shimmering Aegean Sea like the prongs of a trident. The fingers of land are clad in beaches that stretch as far as the eye can see, punctuated only by rocky outcrops and coves. Inland you will find the terracotta villages and sweeping foothills that make this such a beguiling place.
Halkidiki has an ancient past shrouded in myth and mystery. It is said that Zeus and other Olympian gods fought the giants of Gaea here. However Halkidiki also has a real past to excite the history buff. This was, after all, the birthplace of Aristotle and Alexander the Great. The peninsulas each have their own personalities, Kassandra and Sithonia are lively, though still not overly busy, with a string of fantastic beaches. Mount Athos, by contrast, is home to a monastery little changed over one thousand years. It can only be visited on 10 days of the year and then only by men. The closest most get to seeing it is by boat on one of the many trips down the coast.
"For a hotel-based beach holiday with good watersports plus a chance to explore some of the finest countryside in Greece."
Halkidiki Holiday - Beaches
Halkidiki's crowning glory is its beaches. Stretches of golden sand line the coast and you can swim almost anywhere. Kassandra's beaches are mainly of fine sand though some have shingle and stone as you enter the water. On many beaches you will have a fine view of the Sithonia peninsula and if you are lucky you may see a dolphin at play in the Aegean. Most of the larger resorts offer a good selection of watersports.
Shopping
Nearly every town in Halkidiki has a colourful and exuberant market selling local crafts and produce. Be sure to take home some olive oil or honey to add a bit of Greek to your British meal times.
Nightlife
Halkidiki is more about relaxing to the sound of the sea than moving to the noise of disco music. Waterfront restaurants will give you time to enjoy the views and watch the people strolling past. Seek out Greek bouzouki music and traditional folk dancing for a taste of some true local entertainment.
Local Specialities
Food is typically Greek with the emphasis on seafood and grilled meats generously sprinkled with aromatic herbs. You'll find plenty of tavernas serving good quality authentic food, especially if you are prepared to explore the towns and villages of the area. Look out for mussels cooked in a spicy tomato sauce, topped with crumbly feta cheese or plates piled high with crisply fried whitebait. This is one of the best areas for wine production with some excellent vintages. Finish your meal with a Greek brandy to accompany a cup of coffee taken the way the locals enjoy it - very strong and very sweet.