Kassandra Village Hopping

Is there a better way to understand the culture and the mentality of your travel destination, than getting to know the places and the people within them? Once you decide to visit Kassandra, the first of the three Halkidiki peninsulas, a magical journey begins. 

When entering Kassandra, in just 6km you will see the bridge over the Nea Potidea Canal, which technically makes the rest of the peninsula an island (!) and there you will enjoy the mesmerizing view of both sides. Sunsets or sunrises are the perfect time to be there!

Next stop is Nea Fokea, which possesses several significant sites. The most interesting one shall be the 15th century iconic Byzantine Tower of Agios Pavlos (Saint Paul), which is actually the cave where the Apostle Paul hid from his persecutors. The tower of Nea Fokea was also the headquarter of Greek revolutionist Emmanouil Papas, during the Greek War of Independence.

If you look for a truly traditional experience, you can visit Athitos (or Afitos), a unique village with stoned houses and cobbled streets. Athitos is a seaside village, located 20 km north of Pefkohori, which retains its traditional charm with stone- paved streets and quaint squares. In Athitos you can visit impressive sites, such as the ruins of Ancient Athitos, the ancient Millstone Quarries, the Folklore Museum and the natural springs of Moudounou and Vrysitsa.

Kallithea is the next village on your journey. Its name literally means “great view” and it’s one of the most vibrant and popular destinations in Kassandra. You can enjoy various leisure activities and even visit the legendary sanctuary of Zeus Ammon, with its links to ancient Athitos and ancient Egypt. Zeus Ammon was a hybrid deity combining the Greek Zeus, ruler of Olympus, and Egyptian Amun, the King of Gods. Kallithea is only 19 km away from Pefkohori and there, you will also find the stone-built Church of Agios Nikolaos.  

Just 5km down the road is the hillside village of Kryopigi, which is located just 1.2km from the sea. The name Kryopigi means Cold Water Spring and derives from a natural spring with freezing water on the top of the village where a small theatre is also located.              

Next village is Polychrono. It is extremely popular during the summer months. In Polychrono village you will find the Mavrobara turtle Lake, a stunning site of great ecological interest, for which there now exists a certified walking route. See more at; Activities in Halkidiki. Lake Mavrobara is home to two extremely rare species of the Emydidae family of pond turtles.          

Another popular summer resort is Hanioti, which is built on the site of the ancient city of Aiyi (or Aiyai). According to the local tradition, the name of Hanioti derives from the first settler who settled at the south of today’s village (a place called “palio horio” meaning “old village”). This first settler appears to have been from Hania, Crete, so the village is called “Haniotis” (meaning coming from Hania). In Hanioti, there are basketball and 5×5 football fields, beach volley establishments and plenty of water sports on the beach. It has a large and beautiful park on the beach and also many other smaller parks, picturesque squares and tall perennial trees.

Pefkohori (or Pine Tree Village) is believed to be the site of the ancient city of Neapolis.  Pefkohori is one of the most developed resort areas of Kassandra and entire Halkidiki, combining beautiful nature, organized beaches and exceptional climate, with all prerequisites for a relaxing vacation. Pefkohori’s  restaurants and taverns feature an especially pleasant atmosphere and serve delicious meals that are best enjoyed with a cup of a traditional local beverage. On the beach of Pefkohori, one can see the work of sculptor Paraskevas Mageiras depicting the mythical Gigantomachy or the Battle of the Giants. It is also worthwhile seeing the beautiful lagoon, which is about 4 km away from Pefkohori village. Moreover, you will discover the Monastery of St. John the Russian see more at: History and Culture. Last but not least, you can visit the remarkable old parish church of “Theotokou Koimisis”, built during the 19th century. 

At the south-eastern end of the peninsula, you will reach Paliouri, which is said to be the site of the ancient city of Theramvos as mentioned in the writings of Herodotus.  

Enjoy a unique drive through pine trees for 6km and you will reach Agia Paraskevi, which is popular for its Thermal Baths and healing springs. In just 1.5km you can visit the iconic Chapel of Panagia Faneromeni, with its (supposedly) miracle-working icon of the Virgin.  

Just another 1.5km down the road, you will find yourself in Nea Skioni, formerly known as Tsaprani, and then pass through Mola Kalyva, the site of ancient Mendi, once famous for its local wine.  

After Nea Skioni, the route will take you to the picturesque Kalandra and the unique Possidi, where you will see the Possidi Cape and its peculiar geographical shape.  Just 2km down the road and you will find yourself at a junction: to the left is Skala Fourkas and to the right is the village of Fourka and the hill village  of Kassandrino.  If you choose to continue straight ahead, in about 3km you will arrive at Siviri, where the popular Kassandra Festival is held every summer and attracts thousands of visitors and offers a unique variety of amazing performances and art events.    Kassandria, also known as Valta, is the main service center for the peninsula. In Kassandria you can visit the Cathedral of the Birth of the Virgin, the abandoned windmill and the folklore museum. Also, there is a weekly open market in the village, where you can find traditional local products and delicacies. At the traffic lights you can take the turning up the forest road, which will bring you, after 17km, to the turning to Sani. Carrying on along the road from Kassandria, after 6km you will arrive at the main junction where you can turn to both eastern and western coasts. An open market also exists in Nea Moudania, a town in the northernmost spot of the peninsula, where you can also see the folklore and the fisheries museum. A complete tour of the peninsula will take about 175km of driving (starting from Nea Potidea).

Afytos Village
Pefkohori Village
Skioni Village

Glass Bottom Toroneos Cruise

Departing from Chrousso and sailing to the middle peninsula to Toroni, the boat will stay close to the beach. You may snorkel and swim in the crystal clear Aegean waters. Have fun and play games on the beach or just top up your tan. During your return on the boat a meal is provided to you and the cruise continues to Neos Marmaras. Then, it is time to explore the town or go shopping. The cruise returns to Chrousso after a final stop for swimming at Kelifos Island. Light refreshment beverages are available aboard throughout the day. Don’t miss the cruise, fun is guaranteed!

Day Sailing in Halkidiki

Enjoy Halkidiki in a new way. Discover with a group of 12 persons on a private sailing yacht the beautiful bays and beaches of Kassandra. The Sea with the crystal clear waters and the bright sun guarantee an unforgettable day. Get special experiences while having a new perspective of Halkidiki from the water! Discover the most beautiful bays and beaches of Kassandra with a small group on the board! Bath stops in every 45 minutes. Snorkeling and fishing equipment are on board, food & drinks are inclusive too.

Athos Cruise

Sometimes referred to as Mt. Athos ( the “Holy Mountain”), the name of the 2033m mountain close to the southern tip of the peninsula, has had the status of an autonomous state for over 1,000 years. Famous for its ancient monasteries, the first of which was built in 963 by St. Athanasios, Athos is the most difficult section of Halkidiki to visit. All females, including female animals, are forbidden to pass beyond Ouranopolis into the monks’ territory. Men who wish to visit must apply for a permit up to 6 months in advance, allowing them to visit no longer than 4 days. Up to 120 permits for Greek men and 10 for foreigners are issued daily. Till now, 1.700 monks still live under strict rules on the Holy Mountain, with no woman ever being allowed to set foot there. The cruise will begin in Ormos Panagias, a very small village. Once you pass Sithonia, you will reach the peninsular Athos. Cruising along the west coast, you have the opportunity to view and photograph Europe’s most unique Monks’ republic with its impressive Byzantine Monasteries. Now you can enjoy the picturesque village Ouranopolis. You have to see this independent state in the midst of Greece.

Sithonia Cruise

Let yourself drift away by a trip around the adorable peninsula Sithonia, a place on earth still dominated by serenity and peace. Sithonia is more than just an eye candy. The trip includes fantastic landscapes, traditional architecture, “carribean” beaches and of course a lot of information about Halkidiki and its history. During the day, you may hear a lot from our guide about tradition, myths, products, habits and the Greek lifestyle. Also, you will enjoy the nature and the landscape of the green peninsula Sithonia. Important note: don’t forget your swimming suits. Sarti is meant for swimming with its paradisiacal coves. Do not forget your camera too! Flocks of goats, donkeys and sheep are not rare and they might be captured. The Caribbean style waters will definitely make you wish to capture them for a lifetime!!!!

Ancient Stagira, birthplace of Aristotle

Ancient Stagira in northern Halkidiki is famous for being the birthplace of the great Greek philosopher, Aristotle. The village of Stagira was built near the archaeological site of Stagira. The sultan’s mint was located there in the 16th century and many ruins of furnaces can also be found close to the village. The historical central church of Stagira was built in 1814, a few years before the Independence. Many ancient towers, walls, temples and the statue of Aristotle are situated on the west part of the village. On your way to Stagira, you can also visit Arnea, one of the most picturesque villages of north Halkidiki and its Folklore museum.

Additional information: here

The Aristotle’s Park

"Quality is not an act, it is an habit", Aristotle.

A visit to Aristotle’s Park would be a totally family friendly activity in Halkidiki. It is a unique theme park, located in a beautiful area with a marvelous view towards the Gulf of Ierissos and the whole peninsula of Athos. The park is dedicated to the famous Greek philosopher, Aristotle, and it includes a series of interesting instruments which when used properly will show the phenomena of nature. Aristotle was a great walker who would lecture his students as they wandered. These experimental instruments, operating by rules of physics are mentioned in Aristotle’s textbooks and especially in the one called “The Naturals”. The instruments include a prism, optical discs, sounding bars, a compass, sundial and pendulum. The park combines recreation, entertainment and education. Nearby, you can also follow Aristotle’s Route (14klm), one of the area’s hiking routes that connects Ancient Stagira to Aristotle’s park.

Water Sports and Diving Experience

Dive into Fun and Sun!

The adrenaline lovers can honestly relish their time in Halkidiki. They could choose from a range of exciting motorized water Sports like water skiing and parasailing, activities for which you can get information at the Watersports Centers of Pefkohori. There are also water sports for the whole family, such as pedalos, ringos and banana. For the lovers of the sea bed, beginners or advanced, Pefkohori offers many spots to be explored, always with the supervision of the most qualified personnel (PADI), the right equipment and the latest technology to wander the most interesting routes in the area of the seabed, designed by specialists in diving. Flegra Palace Hotel Concierge team can provide you with further information and even more arrange a free intro diving lesson in the swimming pool!

Cycling Tours in Halkidiki

Explore Halkidiki in two wheels!

The first enterprise in Greece recognized by IMDA (International Mountain Bicycling Association) with professional trainers organizes beach and mountain cycling tours daily. Thessaloniki, North Halkidiki and Sithonia are some tour destinations you can choose from, depending on the difficulty level you prefer. Apart from the above, they also offer romantic sunset rides for couples and challenging trekking tours in mount Olympus.
Additional Information: http://www.breakfreemtb.com

Explore Halkidiki Routes

Explore the certified trekking routes of Halkidiki!

A brand new network of walking routes has been developed by Halkidiki Tourism Organization, offering you the chance to explore the magnificent nature of the region which stands for much more than beaches. Halkidiki is blessed with lush green forests that reach right down to the beach and features paths for mountain biking and hiking walks around the peninsulas. In Kassandra peninsula, where Flegra Collection members are located, there are two walking routes from which one belongs to the easy scale and thus it could also be considered as a family friendly activity. In the start point of every route, there is a map that navigates you and the marking paths placed by university researchers will make your route as easy going as possible! In total, there are seven routes spread all over Halkidiki, with different difficulty levels. All of them are worth visiting for various reasons. The one closest to Flegra Palace Hotel is the circular route of Mavrobara, a turtle lake, which is characterized with “Easy” difficulty level and the little visitors would love it for both the adventure and the turtles of course! Two small chapels are also to be found during this route which is about 3,2 km. The next one is a bit further and it is a non-circular route from Sani Camping to Siviri beach. This is a more difficult route, but it could also be a family activity, especially for families with older children. There are two more options, the one starting from Porto Koufo and and the other starting from Akti Elias in Sithonia, while the Aristotle’s route, the Ouranoupoli’s route and Polygyros route are in the northern part of Halkidiki. Our reception staff of all Flegra Collection members will be happy to assist you by offering further information or suggestions you might need.

Additional Information: http://www.halkidikiroutes.gr