When people decide to take their holidays in Greece, the first places that come to mind are usually the islands, such as Santorini or Mykonos, but also Crete and Zante. But there is a region of Greece that is just as beautiful as these wonderful sea-surrounded places: we are talking about Chalkidiki.
Located in the Central Macedonia region, whose capital is Thessaloniki, it culminates in three peninsulas: Kassandra, Sithonia and Mount Athos. Kassandra is the most touristy peninsula, almost completely flat and with sandy beaches. Sithonia, the central peninsula, is wilder and rockier, with many coves and beaches free from the tourist masses. The peninsula of Agios Oros, or Mount Athos, is instead a monastic republic, thus a state in itself within Greek territory.
For a holiday of relaxation, nature and crystal clear waters, Sithonia – just a few hours’ drive from Thessaloniki airport – is the ideal place to visit. Besides its sea, the area is very well known for the variety of olives cultivated there – Chalkidiki olives, which are green and very large, the classic aperitif olives.
Here are 5 beaches you should not miss if you are holidaying on the road in the Sithonia peninsula.
Porto Koufo
Porto Koufo beach is located in the south-western part of the peninsula. It is the largest natural harbour in Greece and, due to the depth of the sea in its bay, was used as a harbour by German submarines during World War II. The beach is quite narrow, almost on the road, but the spectacle is magnificent, because the seabed goes from very low to very deep just a few steps from the shore.
Portokali beach (Orange Beach)
This beach is located on the eastern coast of Sithonia, from where you can admire a wonderful view of Mount Athos. Reaching the beach is not very easy because it is located on the rocky part of the peninsula, but the place is worth the effort.
In the past it was known as a nudist beach, but today it is also very popular with families with children.
Karidi Beach
Karidi Beach is on the Vourvourou promontory on the north-eastern coast of Sithonia, but it could well be in the Caribbean given its extremely white sand and blue sea. The bay is divided into two parts, one rockier and one sandier, and therefore suitable for absolutely everyone.
Goa Beach
The name Goa Beach could make you think of being in India, and the atmosphere of this place is just that. Reaching this beach is not so easy: lying 2 km from Sarti, the road is unpaved and overhangs a valley. But when you arrive, you can relax in a cove that is perfect for both lovers of relaxation and for those who prefer snorkelling.
White Beach
Diaporos is one of the islands located a few km from the eastern coast of Sithonia. This island has been uninhabited since 1950 and is only accessible by small-displacement boats for rent. White Beach – also called Hawaii Beach because of its clear waters and its dazzling white colour – is one of the most beautiful beaches on the island.
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