Try Halkidiki family holidays this year and expect to be smitten, forever. This beautiful peninsula in northern Greece is the kind of place that pulls you back again and again. And if you haven’t been yet, this summer is the perfect time to go.
Halkidiki family holidays are a natural for summer 2022
If you’re looking for an easy alternative to Greek island holidays, the Halkidiki peninsula is all that, and more. High temperatures, long hours of sun and balmy seas are a given in Greece during summer. But this region balances its exceptional coastline with an almost untouched natural landscape. So when you want a break from beaches you can go exploring in enormous forests, discover rare wildlife, try climbing in the hills or walks that are easy enough for the youngest of kids.
Plus, places to stay range from award-winning five star family resorts to charming village houses. Ready to discover the peninsula that’s described as ‘beyond the blue’? Here it is:
One region, several wonderful destinations
Halkidiki is a fascinating and authentic region of Greece. It’s the place for charming, traditional villages and beautiful, unspoiled landscapes – as well as a stunning coastline. And history here runs deep and long – visit the Archaeological Museum in Poligiros to see just how long .
The area is also a bit of a sporting legend, as well as a favourite for sailing holidays and it’s ideal if your kids are keen on anything water based from snorkelling and diving to windsurfing, canoeing and kayaking.
The geography of Halkidiki is another irresistible factor in any family holiday, because thanks to the unusual pronged peninsula you don’t just have one destination to explore, you have several.
The Kassandra Peninsula
The Kassandra peninsula is closest to Thessaloniki and easiest to reach from the airport. Here, you’ll find exceptional family resorts along the coast and dozens of historic villages to explore. Plus, cosmopolitan Kassandra is also known for its preserved natural beauty, Blue Flag beaches, as well as nightlife, annual festivals, and endless entertainment.
Sithonia
Sithonia is to the east of Kassandra and the place for peace, tranquility and sandy Aegean beaches. As the most sheltered of the three peninsula, its waters tend to be a little warmer and gentler, so it’s good choice for families with younger children.
Although, the landscape is the best type of natural playground for older kids and several beaches offer excellent water sports’ facilities. Sithonia is also particularly popular with nature lovers and outdoorsy families thanks to its mild climate and pine forests, as well as a smattering of lovely islets just off the coast.
Mount Athos
Even if you’ve never visited Halkidiki, there’s a good chance you’ve heard of Mount Athos. It’s both the world’s largest Orthodox religious community and a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Mount Athos takes up most of the eastern peninsula of Athos and can only be visited by men. But anyone can sail around the peninsula to see its 20 magnificent monasteries – often in the company of dolphins.
Ammouliani Island
If you feel like island hopping, Ammouliani is just off the north west coast of Athos. Reached by ferry from Tripiti in a matter of minutes this is Halkidiki’s only inhabited island and best kept secret. However, Ammouliani welcomes visitors with some of the region’s most exotic beaches, traditional taverns, local feasts and the authentic Greek hospitality.
Halkidiki’s East Coast
When you want to experience the most authentic and virgin area of Halkidiki, the East Coast is the place to be. This is the area just outside Mount Athos, known for traditional villages, Byzantine towers and walking routes. And it’s also home to important archaeological sites such as Ancient Stagira and Aristotle’s Park: a family-friendly theme park dedicated to the great Greek philosopher.