Kassandra chalkidiki central macedonia greece. A story about heaven on earth or the most amazing place in Greece - Kassandra on the Chalkidiki peninsula. What are analytics cookies
Kassandra - a peninsula in northern Greece, on the coast Aegean Sea, located between the two gulfs of Toroneos and Thermaikos. It is one of three that make up the larger Halkidiki. The Potidea Canal separates the Kassandra Peninsula from the mainland. The region has a developed tourism infrastructure; many tourists from various countries come here. From the airport of the northern capital of Thessaloniki you can get here by bus or taxi.
Greece (Chalkidiki) Kassandra
Greece (Chalkidiki) Kassandra Detailed map in Russian.
Tourism is central to the economy of this region. The coast, 15 km wide and stretching for 50 km, is sandy and sandy-pebble, alternating with picturesque capes and bays, and is one of the cleanest in Europe. There are no big cities on the northern coast; all entertainment is concentrated in small coastal towns and villages, many of which are popular resorts with developed tourist infrastructure: hotels, shops, restaurants.
Attractive landscape
Tourists are provided with Greek taverns, discos, bars and other entertainment. Hotels of any class for both budget and wealthy vacationers. The most prestigious and fashionable ones are located near the coast. A wide choice of active pastimes: hiking and cycling in the mountains and pine forests, exciting voyages on yachts or scuba diving in the depths of the sea.
Weather and climate
The climate in the region is considered Mediterranean, with dry summers and mild winters.
From the beginning of May to the end of September it is sunny and rarely rains. Holiday season begins in May, the air at this time warms up to +23 °C.
The area is protected mountain ranges Because of the cold winds, the water in the sea quickly warms up. It’s comfortable to relax with children in June, the air temperature rises to +27 °C, and sea water warmer than +22 °C.
July and August are the hottest times
July and August are the hottest times, the air at this time heats up to +30°-34°C.
At the beginning of autumn, it is still warm here at +27 °C, but there are significantly fewer vacationers; dry, sunny days persist throughout September.
The first rains begin in October, and the rainy season begins in November.
Kassandra (Greece) attractions
Ancient Greece experienced periods of Byzantine and Ottoman influence, the culture of this country was formed over thousands of years and today has a variety of incarnations.
Afitos is a village in Greece, impressive with its ancient architecture and historical temples. In the center is the Church of St. Demetrius, built in 185. Next to the church there is a small ethnographic museum.
Fact! The village of Neya Potidea is one of the oldest and most beautiful places with ruins ancient castle and a beautiful church.
South of the village of Neia Potidea, there is the village of Neia Fokia with a picturesque bay. At the very edge of the sea rises a Byzantine tower built in 1407 in honor of the Apostle Paul.
Sani Resort offers views of Mount Olympus. During construction work found here archaeological finds indicating that there was previously an acropolis of ancient Sani. At this place in 1543, the servants of the Athos monastery built a watchtower, which still stands today.
The town of Olynthos is one of the oldest settlements, in which there are ruins of a beautiful town with buildings decorated with mosaics and a developed sewage system. On the territory of archaeological excavations in the town of Olinthos, they discovered Archaeological Museum.
Petralona Cave
Not far from the village of Petralona there is a cave of the same name. The remains of an ancient European man and the fossilized remains of prehistoric animals were discovered here. Petralona Cave is famous for its extraordinary stalagmites.
Popular excursions include visiting the rock monasteries of Meteora and a cruise around the holy Mount Athos. For almost two thousand years, monks settled here, and civilization has not yet penetrated into this corner. Athos is the only Orthodox Monastic Republic where people live according to church canons. There are 20 monasteries here. Some of them are built on large rocks. Cruises are organized around Mount Athos, and men have the opportunity to visit the Russian St. Panteleimon Monastery. Women are prohibited from entering the territory.
Monasteries on Mount Athos
In the villages of Arnea, Parthenonas and Afito, the original Greek architectural style has been preserved.
It is famous for the sights of Thessaloniki, there are a lot of them here, it’s impossible to get to know them in a day. The territory contains many different temples, monasteries, synagogues, mosques and many other attractions. It is worth seeing the archaeological museum, where archaeological finds from the prehistoric period are collected and a large number of exhibits of antiquity.
Most high peak country is the legendary Mount Olympus. Located around the mountain national park, which is one of the most beautiful in all of Greece.
Mount Olympus
Rent a Car
Renting a car in Greece is not difficult. Renting a car is convenient if you need to see hard-to-reach sights, drive along the coast, or visit different villages. This can be done in any tourist town or village.
Note! The driver must be at least 21 years old.
In almost every hotel in Greece you can rent a car and the necessary equipment, including child car seats and boosters at no additional cost. The rental cost depends on the season, availability of full insurance and various additional services. The range of brands and models offered is large. The roads throughout the country are excellent. A car is the most comfortable and convenient transport for viewing most of the sights of Greece.
Popular resorts
Kallithea (Greece)
Kallithea (the resort of the same name is on the island of Rhodes) is the busiest resort town. The life of the resort during the season is intense and subsides only in the morning. The bulk of the apartments are located outside the village of Kallithea.
The embankment has a sandy and clean shore, and it’s a great place to relax with children. The entrance to the sea is sandy and flat, without stones or sharp depths. There are almost never storms in Kallithea, as it is protected from the winds by the hills.
Kallithea (Greece)
The descent and ascent to the center of the village takes place along a long steep staircase.
The busy shoreline of the seaside town is covered in lush vegetation. The village has many inexpensive places where you can have a delicious lunch.
Hotel Atos Palace is located 2 km from Kallithea and 75 km from international airport"Macedonia" in Thessaloniki. On a picturesque cape, among gardens with lush vegetation, there is an eight-story hotel building. Designed for tourists of any category. The hotel operates an all-inclusive system: breakfast, lunch and dinner are served, snacks and drinks are served.
Hotel territory
Modern Kallithea was founded in 1925 by settlers from Asia Minor. Until 1950, its residents were engaged in agriculture and livestock raising. Today, the population of Kallithea is mainly employed in the tourism sector.
Today Kallithea is one of the most popular resorts in the region. Clean coast developed infrastructure attract tourists from all over the world.
Kallithea (Greece) has its own historical attractions - the ruins of the temples of Zeus and Dionysus.
Pefkochori (Greece) is a small village with modern infrastructure. It is located in a pine grove, and the streets of the village are buried in bright southern flowers. The sand and pebble coast is awarded the Blue Flag. The silhouette of Mount Athos is visible from the shore. The coast of Pefkohori is divided into parts by a pier: on one side there are hotels, on the other - the city beach. Sun loungers and umbrellas are provided free of charge if you buy a drink at the cafe or bar.
Pefkohori embankment
You can learn how to dive with multilingual instructors, and for the more experienced there are night scuba dives to wrecks.
For children, there is a mini Luna Park on the embankment with a variety of slides and attractions.
You can walk around and see the 19th century church and a partially preserved old mill. Climb the mountains and admire the olive groves and wonderful landscapes.
Greece is one of the safest countries for travel, but even here you need to be careful and follow simple rules security. As everywhere else, petty theft and fraud occur.
Important! You should not carry large amounts of cash with you. It is prudent to store documents and money in a hotel safe or place them in the most inaccessible place.
It is better to negotiate the cost of a taxi ride before the trip, otherwise the taxi driver will be able to deceive you by greatly inflating the price.
It is recommended to travel to Halkidiki during velvet season, in the middle of summer it is very hot and there are a lot of people, and in winter it is sad around. Spring is more suitable for excursion holiday- it’s not very hot and everything around is blooming and fragrant. In spring, many unusual flowers and greenery bloom. From May to October you can visit resorts for beach time.
Halkidiki
In this region, only a few hotel restaurants operate on an all-inclusive basis. Most often they offer only breakfast or half board. At the same time, many hotels provide special meals for young children.
Greece loves children very much, which is why you can find a large number of parks, water parks and children's museums throughout the country.
Interesting! In Greece, there is a “Tax free” system that allows you to return tax on purchases, but it does not apply to the purchase of fur products.
You can bargain with the local residents of Greece. They can give a discount of 10-15 dollars on any product or accommodation.*
For traveling, it is most convenient to travel by rented car.
Having made a tour to any corner of Greece, you will remain from it for a long time unforgettable impression, thanks to its incredibly clean coastlines, mild climate, stunning natural scenery and variety of entertainment. National cuisine Greece is one of the most useful in the whole world. Everything is tasty, varied, healthy. The Greeks are hospitable people. Having been here once, you want to come back again.
*Prices are current as of August 2018.
The Kassandra Peninsula is the westernmost and most populous "finger" of Halkidiki. Here you can find hotels of any class, traditional Greek taverns, discos, bars and other entertainment, as well as a wide selection of outdoor activities. There are many vacationers on Kassandra with children, young people and “locals” who value the peninsula no less than others for its beauty and cleanliness of the sea.
Kassandra itself stretches for 50 km, the greatest width of the peninsula is only 15 km, and the largest high point- 353 meters above sea level. In ancient times this peninsula was called "Phlegra", which means "burning land". According to mythology, this was the land of Giants, it was here that Alcyoneus, the first giant, the son of Heaven and Earth, was born. Life is in full swing today on Kassandra: 44 populated areas peninsulas annually welcome thousands of tourists to their resorts.
The peninsula was named in honor of Alexander the Great's son-in-law, King Cassander, who founded a settlement in these places back in the 4th century BC. Then it functioned here major port, and brisk trade was conducted, villages grew and prospered.
Weather in Kassandra
The mild Mediterranean climate also contributes to a pleasant holiday. Here you can take leisurely walks or bike rides through the mountains or pine forests, bask on the golden sand and swim in the warm Aegean Sea, take voyages on a yacht or scuba dive into the depths of the sea.
Main resorts of Kassandra
Nea Fokea is a village on the western coast of the peninsula with a picturesque bay and a Byzantine tower at the very edge of the sea.
Nea Potidea is a beautiful town with amazing sandy beaches, built on the ruins of the Corinthian colony of the same name.
Afytos is a small village that has preserved the national style in the architecture of the houses, which offers beautiful views of the turquoise waters of Kassandra Bay.
Kallithea (translated as “beautiful view”) is the busiest town: night life It calms down here only with the first rays of the sun. During the day, kilometer-long beaches and turquoise sea await them with amazing cleanliness.
Hanioti is famous for its beautiful promenade, clear sea, taverns with traditional cuisine, lively nightlife and opportunities for all kinds of water sports.
Pefkohori is a unique ecological paradise of the Khalidiki Peninsula. It is located close to southern point peninsula. There is an extraordinary climate, an amazing combination of mountains, pine forests and the azure sea.
Maps of Kassandra
Cuisine and restaurants
Kassandra should also appeal to active people who are not used to being bored either day or night, for them there will be entertainment for every taste, an active beach holiday smoothly flows into unbridled night fun, loud music sounds here from sunset to dawn, and reflections flicker from the dance floors.
In addition, do not miss the opportunity to taste the unsurpassed Greek wine and enjoy a variety of dishes prepared according to traditional recipes from fish that just a few minutes ago swam in the sea. All resort towns have a lot of chic restaurants with excellent European cuisine, but it’s still more interesting to look into a small tavern or restaurant on the seashore in national style. Here you will be given a warm welcome and met according to all the laws of Greek hospitality, and perhaps the owner of the establishment will even treat you to a glass of delicious homemade liqueur.
Beaches of Kassandra
Just imagine: fifty kilometers of well-groomed, equipped according to the most high standards beaches with a clean, gentle sea, with grandiose water parks and secluded picturesque bays. This is where most is concentrated entertainment centers and hotel complexes throughout Halkidiki, and even Ibiza would envy the local clubs and beach discos.
In addition, in the southernmost village of the peninsula - Agia Paraskevi, right in the pine forest, there is a unique thermal spring, the waters of which have no analogues in their healing properties. Visiting them will help you strengthen your nervous and cardiovascular systems, improve your skin condition and even relieve rheumatism. And in combination with the legendary honey, which is brought by bees only from this region, you can quickly restore your strength, strengthen your immune system - and also enjoy its wonderful taste.
Popular hotels in Kassandra
Entertainment and attractions of Kassandra
Much has changed since then, but the ruins of an ancient Byzantine-era tower in the town of Nea Fokea, and the remains of the ancient city of Nea Potidea, where luxury hotel complexes are now located, eloquently testify to the island’s past history. And in the tiny village of Kallithea you will have the opportunity to touch centuries-old history, and can even comprehend the wisdom of the ancestors in the place where, back in the 8th millennium BC, the temple of Zeus stood, as well as a sanctuary in honor of the god of wine and fun - Dionysus. These regions are also rich in more recent architectural attractions - you can, for example, look into one of the many chapels, or spend a few minutes in the peaceful garden of an ancient monastery - a lot of pleasant emotions and a feeling of inner harmony are guaranteed to you.
But what attracts tourists to the resorts of Kassandra most of all is the unique nature; here you can get intoxicated by the clean air, saturated with the aromas of the herbs of mountain meadows, the smell of pine needles and the salty sea breeze. Moreover, World organization Nature Protection recognized the waters of the Aegean Sea in the coastal areas of Kassandra as one of the cleanest in the world - now special blue identification flags with UNESCO symbols are installed here.
Kassandra is a charming peninsula located in the western part of Halkidiki. Thessaloniki is located nearby. Kassandra is connected to the rest of the region by an amazing bridge from Nea Potidea. This village is Starting point every traveler arriving here. It is difficult to call Kassandra a peninsula, since it is completely separated from the territory of Halkidiki by the Gulf of Potidea. It offers stunning views of the surrounding areas.
In ancient times, the name of the peninsula was different. The Greeks called it Phlegra (“place of fire”). Ancient Greek myths They say that Giants lived here. Creatures were born from drops of the blood of Uranus, which fell on the body of the goddess Gaia. It was here, according to mythology, that there was a historical battle between the Giants and the gods of Olympus for world power. The giants threw huge rocks onto Olympus, and Zeus sent lightning to Phlegra, burning the peninsula to the ground.
One of the myths says that a rock thrown by the Olympian gods during the battle crushed the Seismic Giant. However, the boulder did not kill him, and he remained on Cassandra. Since then, when the Giant tries to get out, the Earth suffers an earthquake. The rock thrown by Poseidon crushed another Giant - Aphos. Named after him famous mountain. The war between the gods of Olympus and the inhabitants of Phlegra continued for a long time. Everything changed after a prediction given to the gods. It said that the help of a mere mortal would decide the outcome of the battle. Then it was decided to turn to Hercules, the son of Zeus and a mortal woman. The warlike young man defeated Alkaeon, former first among the Giants. This meant the complete victory of the gods. The daughter of Alkeon, Pallini suffered bitterly and, unable to bear it, threw herself and her sisters into the sea. Poseidon's wife Amphitrite did not let them die. The goddess wrapped the girls in seabirds. The name of the eldest gave the name to the peninsula. It changed in 315 BC. The Macedonian king Kassander, having chosen the peak, built Kassandria there. Then the name spread throughout the territory.
Now Cassandra - modern resort, welcoming guests from all over the world. Greeks also come to the peninsula to take a break from routine and relax. Equipped beaches and developed infrastructure attract tourists. The traveler is greeted by kilometers of open-work coastline, turquoise waves of the sea, and most importantly - active nightlife: traditional taverns, luxurious restaurants, creative bars, discos, clubs - you can find entertainment to your liking on every corner. Along with this, Kassandra is a place thermal springs and a wide choice of places to stay: from small cozy hotels to expensive apartments, from family hotels to luxury hotel complexes. Lovers have a nice holiday They will appreciate the golf courses, marinas, and SPA centers.
Tourists of the younger generation who love to relax after sunset will appreciate the Kallithea area. Stylish clubs are found here at every turn. Before this, there is always the opportunity to drop into one of the many cafes or bars, of which there are plenty in Halkidiki. The evening will not be boring on such a wonderful trip. Local restaurants invite you to enjoy non-standard dishes from chefs or taste traditional Greek cuisine - the choice is yours.
Administrative division
The current municipality of Kassandra includes:
Kassandria (administrative center of Kassandra),
Sled,
Nea Fokia,
Afitos,
Kallithea,
Kriopigi,
Cassandrino,
Furka,
Hanioti,
Pefkohori,
Polychrono,
Siviri.
It is known that Kassandra is the birthplace of the famous philosopher Aristotle. Stagira will open a lot for visitors interesting facts about the life of the great thinker, and the beauty of the surrounding nature will give you an incredible walking experience.
These places are significant for the religious world. Saint Athos and the monastic state of Agion Oros are a place of pilgrimage for parishioners from all over the world.
Petralona Cave keeps many secrets. Unique natural monument was opened in 1959. A year later, the skull of an archanthrope was found there. Research conducted by scientists has shown that the remains found belong to the oldest man on European territory: he is about 700 thousand years old. You can see more than just fossils and skeletons. The cave also displays wonderful natural figures: stalactites, stalagmites, stalagnates.
The Kassandra Peninsula is full of myths. A touch of history lurks around every corner. Who knows, maybe in just a minute the Giant will again attempt to break out of the ground. Scientists, for example, say that the nature of the peninsula was completely different, the hills of Kassandra are fragments of a meteorite or the consequences of an eruption of an ancient volcano, and where it was, sulfur smoke is still visible above the surface.
Among the cities of Kassandra, Kallithea deserves special attention. The bays of Lidico and Anthony Quinn fascinate with their extraordinary beauty, opening up space and allowing thoughts to wander freely. But this is not the only advantage of Kallithea. Top class tourist infrastructure includes everything a modern tourist needs. Coming here means decorating your life with bright shades of nightlife, and therefore young travelers will appreciate the selection of bars, discos, and clubs.
Nea Moudania is famous for its annual Festival of the Sea. This international event brings together tourists who want to experience all the delights beach holiday. The port provides an excellent opportunity to take a yacht cruise along the Aegean Sea, feel the breath of the elements, and disappear into the vast expanses.
Green Hanioti is waiting for everyone to live a few days in paradise. Surprises await shoppers here. Demanding travelers can confidently head to Nea Flogita. Holidays here are a great option for family vacation. Young children will have plenty to do, as there are many playgrounds and entertainment complexes located in the city.
In search of peace and tranquility, you should go to the Kholomond Mountains. The cleanest air with the aroma of pine needles, the opportunity to hunt, ride horses or on foot, pick mushrooms - tourists who love leisure will be happy. New cozy hotels combine comfort and accessibility.
Kassandra is notable for the fact that a large number of small ancient villages introduce visitors to the local traditional cuisine. A check for a restaurant or cafe will be inexpensive, and the visitor will receive fresh products, be it seafood, vegetables or cheeses. For those who prefer to cook their own food, a strong recommendation: visit local market. Low prices for the best products are not a myth, like many things on Kassandra, but a reality.
The Mouzenidis Travel company organizes tours to any corner of Greece. It becomes easier to visit the Kassandra Peninsula, spend time usefully, and relax your soul and body thanks to experienced consultants. Convenient flight from anywhere in the world, company representative offices near tourist spots, the opportunity to choose your favorite tour right at home - modern tourist receives high quality services easily.
More details
Attractions
Afitos
Afitos - small settlement on the territory of Kassandra. Ancient legends say that the first titans were born in this place, and later their battle with the gods took place.
The town has existed for more than 300 years. In ancient times this picturesque settlement was major metropolis, who minted their own coins. Afitos was destroyed several times. The last major reconstruction of the city began in 1827. At this time, atypical for Greece were erected stone houses. Many buildings and architectural buildings, erected in XIX century, today are the main attractions of Afitos.
On main square Afitos is located the Church of St. Demetrius, built in 1859 on the ruins of a temple destroyed by the Turks.
Saint Demetrius is highly revered by the Greeks. The temple dedicated to the Saint contains ancient icons, mosaics and other ancient religious objects. The architecture of the church is a three-nave domed basilica.
Not far from the church, in a stone mansion from the 19th century, there is a Folklore Museum. The museum's collection consists of household items, kitchen utensils, tools, and works of art donated by local residents. The museum perfectly reflects the traditions and culture of the settlement.
Near the sea there is an unusual place called “stone balcony”. Here tourists and residents of Afitos walk along the embankment, enjoy beautiful views and relax in restaurants and cafes.
Kallithea
The resort of Kallithea, popular among tourists, was an ancient religious center many millennia ago. It was in this place that archaeologists found the remains of the temple of Zeus-Amon and the sanctuary of Dionysus.
The Temple of Zeus-Amun is the main attraction of Kassandra and an important historical value for Greece.
The place for worshiping the gods was located in picturesque place with incredible views and springs flowing nearby. Here the inhabitants of the island brought gifts to the gods, performed ceremonies and rituals. They decided to build a temple on the site, but it was not possible to build it quickly. In the second half of the 4th century BC, a temple dedicated to Zeus and Amun was erected.
The temple was surrounded by statues and columns, inside of which there was an open space. At the entrance to the sanctuary, a stone threshold was built into which spring water flowed.
During the Roman Empire, the temple flourished - an amphitheater and an altar were added.
Not far from the temple is the cave of Dionysus. The ancient Greeks worshiped the god of fertility and winemaking in this great place, surrounded by springs.
Archaeologists suggest that the sanctuary existed from the 8th to the 2nd centuries BC. e.
Today, only ruins remain of the majestic religious buildings. They are valuable historical objects. Entrance to the territory of the ruins is free. Every tourist can visit ancient places pilgrimage.
Potidea
The history of Potidaea goes back to ancient times. This area has been inhabited since antiquity. The city fell several times and was rebuilt again.
The main attraction of the settlement is the Nea Potidea canal, dug in the first century BC. The canal was surrounded by fortress walls dating back to the era of Justinian. The canal separates the Kassandra peninsula from the mainland of Halkidiki. Previously, people crossed the canal by ferry. Now it is laid over it big bridge, connecting the peninsula with mainland. From the height of the bridge there are incredible panoramic views. The canal was reconstructed in 1930. Near the canal, fortress walls have been preserved, which in the distant past protected the peninsula.
The main religious places of the island are the Church of St. George, the Temple of Panagia Faneromeni, the Church of St. Nicholas and St. Eustathius.
Nea Fokea
Modern Nea Fokea was inhabited in ancient times, and its modern appearance was given to it in 1922 by settlers.
There is an obelisk in Phokea. In the 20s of the last century, archaeologist Felix Chartiu conducted excavations on the territory of the settlement. At this time, terrible events took place in the city - the massacre of the Greek population. Hanging French flags from the windows of houses, Chartier covered many local residents. The obelisk was erected in memory of the bloody incident and the scientist who saved people's lives.
Not far from Phocaea there was a settlement of St. Paul, settled approximately in the 14th-15th centuries. Every June, St. Paul's Church hosts a religious festival in honor of the Holy Apostles Peter and Paul. According to legend, St. Paul hid in a local cave from his pursuers.
The temple preserves the Holy Spring, to which a dark, narrow underground corridor leads. Wall paintings and a marble column also survived.
Temple of Poseidon
During excavations in the quiet fishing village of Possidi in the 90s of the last century, archaeologists discovered the Temple of Poseidon.
Surprisingly, the sanctuary was not mentioned in any chronicle, although it was a cult place for more than a thousand years. Archaeologists discovered 4 buildings, the oldest of them dates back to the 11th century BC, the rest - to the fifth.
Sacrifices to the god Poseidon and sacred rites were performed in the temple. Near the temple, fragments of marble were found with the names of the people who performed the sacrifice. Male names predominate, because Poseidon was worshiped by sailors.
Unique natural resources, picturesque landscapes, a sea with clear and clean water, golden beaches, centuries-old heritage of ancestors, ancient monuments and attractions, traditional settlements and elite tourist resorts - all this real paradise for those who come to Kassandra - the “finger” of the Halkidiki peninsula.
The clearest waters of the Aegean Sea wash the coast of the Kassandra Peninsula. The width of the third “finger” is no more than 15 km, and the height above sea level is 353 m. 
Tourists are delighted with beautiful bays and emerald hills with unique flora. 
It received its name in memory of King Kassandra, the strategist of Alexander the Great; in ancient times it was called Palini or the “finger” of Chalkidiki; in antiquity the peninsula was called Phlegra, which translated means “burning place.” According to ancient Greek mythology, the island was once inhabited by the titans, who wanted to take power over the world from Zeus; they started a war with the gods, for which they paid dearly. 
Cassandra remains in the heart of everyone who one day comes here. Just imagine: immaculate sandy beaches, fifty kilometers long, equipped with everything you need; a clear and gentle sea with picturesque bays and huge water parks; countless entertainment centers, clubs and discos and much more! All components of a perfect and memorable holiday are concentrated on the Kassandra Peninsula. 
Pefkohori is the most environmentally friendly resort of Kassandra, located in the south of the peninsula. The sea water here reflects both pine forests and high mountains. beauty local nature Europeans have been attracted to it for decades. It is in Pefkochori that the famous Greek honey is produced, so if you manage to make friends with one of the beekeepers, you can see the process with your own eyes. 
The name of the village of Pevkohori comes from the Greek words Pevkos - pine and Khorio - village. Essentially Pefkohori is a village built in a pine grove. 
The name of the village is translated from Greek as “beautiful view”, which is completely true. From any point in Kallithea, truly gorgeous panoramas of the local natural beauty open up. 
The beautiful traditional village of Polichrono is located in a green area east coast Kassandra Peninsula. The clean and very well-kept beach of the village of Polichrono is not a bay, but a long narrow strip of sand. Along the entire coastline there are cozy hotels of small size, like most buildings on the Halkidiki peninsula, fitting harmoniously and without disturbing natural beauty. 
The village of Kriopigi is another popular resort on the Kassandra Peninsula, Chalkidiki. It is located 90 km from Thessaloniki on the high (130 m) eastern coast of the peninsula. The name Kriopigi (Κρυοπηγή) is translated as “cold spring”, and for good reason – above the village itself, in the forests, you can find springs with clear ice water. But this modern name, and until the 20th century the village was called Pazarakya (Παζαράκια) - bazaars. Beaches white sand they are not too wide, but comfortable and the sea is clean. It’s not for nothing that the beaches of Kriopigi have been awarded the UNESCO Blue Flag twice! 
The village of Nea Fokea was founded by refugees from the village of Fokea in Asia Minor in the area where their ancestors lived since prehistoric times. Now Nea Fokea is a large tourist resort with a picturesque beach, taverns and other establishments. 
Much has changed since then, but the ruins of an ancient Byzantine-era tower in the town of Nea Fokea eloquently testify to the island's past history. The Chapel of St. Paul the Apostle may have been built as an ancient tomb and converted into a Byzantine chapel. According to legend, the Apostle Paul secretly baptized believers in it when he was in Chalkidiki. 
Afytos is known as the “stone balcony” of Halkidiki. Eastern Bank Kassandra, where this one is located resort village, from the side it looks like a balcony. It offers a breathtaking view of Toroneos Bay. Most of the houses here are built of stone, so Afitos visually stands out from the surrounding settlements. Walking through its narrow streets, you will be transported back to the 19th century. 
The small resort village of Hanioti on the Halkidiki peninsula is considered ideal place for a leisurely and truly calm summer holiday in Greece. It is located an hour's drive from Thessaloniki, which is often called northern capital. 
In 1935, a strong earthquake shook these lands. After him local population decided to rebuild new town closer to the sea. Subsequently it grew, and Hanioti became a real seaside resort. 
The vast majority of the resort's beaches are truly clean and ideal for relaxation. This is evidenced by the assignment of the Blue Flag. It is very difficult to obtain it, since tourism experts award the flag only to the most environmentally friendly beaches in the world. 
Rocky beach, bays, coves, chapels, caves, holiday houses - all this is Loutra Agias Paraskevis. 
Hot mineral water Agia Paraskevi is recommended for rheumatism, skin diseases, diseases of the nervous system, blood vessels, etc.
This is a village whose bee honey is famous throughout Greece! 
Nea Skioni
The ancient village of Skioni was built after the Trojan War and is mentioned as the first colony of southern Greeks on the territory of the Chalkidiki Peninsula. 
Warriors from the Pellini region (Peloponnese) returned home after the fall of Troy on ships loaded with slaves and booty. 
Sailing through Halkidiki, the ships landed on the northwestern coast of Kassandra in order to replenish water and food supplies. While the Pelline warriors were on land, Trojan slaves burned the ships and forced the warriors to remain forever on the Kassandra Peninsula. The settlement founded by the warriors was named Skioni. 
The old village of Furka is located 3 km from the coast. This is a village with traditional architecture, impressive temples, quaint chapels in a pine forest. 
Siviri is considered one of the most beautiful tourist resorts on the Halkidiki peninsula, famous for its abundance of greenery and amazingly beautiful sandy beach, combining mountain and sea. There are many fish taverns, restaurants and bars here. 
The inhabitants of the Nea Potidea region have continuously inhabited the area from Neolithic times to the present day.
The ancient name of the settlement was Pallini. The famous canal, which essentially separates the Kassandra peninsula from the mainland of the Chalkidiki peninsula, was reconstructed in 1930. 
The village of Nea Potidea was built in 1922 by Greek refugees from Eastern Thrace on the site of ancient Potidea and later Kassandria. The Greek government allocated these areas for people who came from Galaria (Istanbul) and the villages of Kerasia and Platanos (Thrace). 
So, glorious ancient city regained its name and became known as Nea Potidea (“New Potidea”). The new settlers grew mainly garlic and onions, for which the region is still famous today. 
The village of Possidi is located on Western Cape Kassandra Peninsula. The name Possidi is apparently associated with the ancient local tradition of worshiping the God of the Sea, Poseidon, because Relics of an ancient sanctuary were found in the region. 
Today Possidi is a quiet fishing village with endless sandy beaches surrounded by pine forests. 
Today life in Kassandra is in full swing again. There are 44 settlements with 13,000 permanent residents and tens of thousands of holidaymakers in the summer months. 
Kassandra is the first (western) finger of the Halkidiki peninsula and the closest to Thessaloniki.
Cassandra (Greek Κασσάνδρα) - in ancient Greek mythology, the daughter of the last Trojan king Priam and his second wife Hecuba. She received a prophetic gift from Apollo, who fell in love with her, but because she did not reciprocate his feelings, he made sure that no one believed Cassandra’s predictions. But what she predicted was embodied in the destruction of Troy.
Road trip. Cassandra.
Our road trip to Halkidiki lasted two days. The first day is dedicated entirely to Cassandra. The trip began in Thessaloniki and ended there. From there it is approximately 80 km to the peninsula. The road is generally good. There were small traffic jams on the way out of the city, but it was Saturday morning, summer residents... But in general the roads are clear.
There are two roads from Thessaloniki: along the coast and directly. We chose the second one that day, route #25.
Along the way there are farmlands in the form of centuries-old olive orchards. The plantations are small, so the question tormented me about this: how much can the owners of these olives earn from them...
Nea Moudania.
Before entering Kassandra there is the town of Nea Moudania. I don’t know how it’s translated (I called it “New Mudenya”.
This is a quiet resort town. We visited a local church here. Greek churches differ from Russians only in the presence of chairs for parishioners.
Well, and also because palm trees grow around them...
There is also a Kremlin not far from Nea Moudenia. Huge banquet hall for 500 people. Yes, that’s how they walk in Greece. They can afford to party in the Kremlin.
So, let's move on. Ahead is our goal – picturesque Kassandra.
The cars on the road are mostly small cars. This is understandable: after the reduction in gasoline prices in 2016, a liter costs 1.4 €, and before that it was about 2, and the roads are smooth even in the most remote corners, i.e. Most people don't need SUVs. The speed limit is approximately the same as here in Russia – 90, 60. There are also cameras. So there is no need to violate it. The first city in Kassandra where we walked is located on the coast. This is Afitos...
Afitos.
Afitos is a resort town on the east coast of Kassandra. It was once a large, significant city, but in the 4th century it was completely destroyed by the Macedonian king Philip.
Now in Afitos, among the attractions you can see the 19th century Church of Demetrius.
And stroll through the cozy Greek streets.
The next city on our way is Kallithea (from Greek “beautiful view”). And the views here are truly beautiful. During times Ancient Greece The Greeks of that time built the temple of Zeus here and this city was a center of pilgrimage. The remains of this temple can still be seen today.
Well, the main purpose of stopping in Kallithea for us was the beach. This is one of best beaches in Chalkidiki.
But what surprised me most was not the clear sea water, nor beautiful views, and not well-equipped beaches... What surprised me most was that all the beaches in Greece (even the coolest ones, near star hotels) are public. Anyone can come (and come - there are parking lots everywhere) to any beach and spend as much time as they want on it. We took advantage of this with pleasure.
There is, however, a fly in the ointment in this huge barrel of honey - these are the new Russian hotel owners. They spit on Greek laws and begin to fence off their territories (turn Halkidiki into Krasnodar coast), which begins to cause irritation and sometimes hatred of local residents.
As in any resort town There are a lot of souvenir shops, taverns and other entertainment in Calathea.
And our path now lies on West Coast, towards the city of Siviri.
Cassandra. West Coast.
Siviri is a resort town with great beaches, beautiful nature. The nature here is different from that of the east coast. There are steeper banks, hills, and forests here.
We taxi towards the village of Skala Furcas. We see fewer and fewer cars, and more and more forests ( Pine forest). There are no mushrooms there (maybe it’s not the season), but most likely there are none at all.
There are many dachas for the residents of Thessaloniki. Suburban village in general, a hundred kilometers from the city on the sea coast. 
We pass by beautiful small villages with the aim of stopping and having a good meal in Loutra. On the way I met a bus with Ukrainian license plates. The drivers there were thoroughly decomposed. Well, there are plenty of parking pockets everywhere.
Nope Skioni.
On the way to Loutra, we passed the village of Nea Skioni, invisible at first glance. Nope, that is. new because there was also ancient Skioni.
That ancient Skioni (4 km from the new one) was built after the Trojan War and is mentioned as the first colony of the southern Greeks on the territory of the Chalkidiki peninsula. Warriors from the Pellini region returned home on ships loaded with booty after the fall of Troy. Sailing through Halkidiki, the ships landed on the northwestern coast of Kassandra to replenish water and food supplies. While the warriors were on land, Trojan slaves burned the ships and forced the warriors to remain forever on the Kassandra Peninsula. The settlement founded by the warriors was named Skioni. There is such a legend.
Luthra.
Loutra is a wonderful resort village. It is famous for its hydrogen sulfide springs. We didn’t go to the sources, because... What was more attractive to me was the village itself and its beaches. 
Yes, you can drink a bottle of beer with such food and with gorgeous views of the sea, pine trees, and boats with fishermen. In Greece 1 bottle. beer for drivers is allowed. The police did not stop any trips during the week. I tried not to break the rules. So my sister (thanks to her for these trips), entrusting me with her beloved Toyota, slept peacefully.
After a delicious dinner we walked around the village and along the beach. You can hear speech from all over the world here, they come in cars and buses (yep, with Ukrainian license plates too), rent houses, rooms and have fun. Unlike the bustling towns of the east coast, this is a kind of wilderness. Wonderful Chalkidiki wilderness. 
I didn’t want to leave, but it was already getting dark. And we still have a long way to go. To Pefkochori and Thessaloniki. 
Pefkohori (Greek: “pine village”).
Well, I gave my names out of habit. In general, this is Sosnovka. The road from Loutra to Pefkohori passes through hilly and wooded terrain. The views are very beautiful. And the beaches here are wonderful too. But... It was getting dark! It was time to hit the road. Thessaloniki is just over 100 km from here. And another trip awaited us.
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