Halkidiki is a three-legged peninsula belonging to the periphery of Central Macedonia. Just a short drive from the city of Thessaloniki and home to some of Greece’s most stunning coastline it is established as one of the top summer destinations worldwide. Its three promontories are called Kassandra, Sithonia and Mount Athos, which is an independent monastic state.

To the east of Thessaloniki, looking like a three fingered hand lies the Halkidiki peninsula. The first two of these prongs, have developed into an ideal vacationland with excellent beaches, hotels and tavernas ideal for a relaxing holiday. The third and easternmost prong is something completely different. It is the Holy Mountain or Mount Athos with its ancient monastic communities unique in the world for the architecture of its buildings, its treasures and above all, its regime. Only men are allowed on the peninsula. No woman may set foot on it lest the holy monks be led into temptation. If you fit the bill and find yourself in this area it is a visit not to be missed for the entirely otherworldly atmosphere. After a period of decline it is flourishing again and has become home to many young and educated monks from all over the world.

Also lending to the mystical imaginative charm of this area is a name: the Cassandra Goldmines, which are situated to the north of Mount Athos and send the imagination racing.