The Independent's journalism receives support from our readers. Purchases made through links on our site may generate commission. This often-overlooked region of Greece offers the ideal setting for a chilled-out short break. While Halkidiki might be known for its superclubs, it also provides a perfect backdrop for a relaxing beach getaway with friends, as discovered by Emilee Tombs.
A Region of Three Distinct Personalities
Stretching like three fingers from Thessaloniki, Greece's second city, into the Aegean Sea, the region of Halkidiki comprises three peninsulas, each with its own unique character. Athos is renowned for its monasteries and pilgrimage routes, though entry to the monasteries is restricted to men. Sithonia offers a wild, family-friendly atmosphere with campsites nestled between sheltered beaches and pine forests. Kassandra, historically known as the party peninsula, boasts superclubs and upmarket hotels along its sparkling, calm coastline.
Domes Noruz Kassandra: A Tranquil Retreat
One such hotel, Domes Noruz Kassandra, has recently undergone renovations, enhancing its appeal in a region popular with weekending Thessalonians but less familiar to British and European travellers. Its prime location overlooking the calm, crystal-clear waters and soft sand of Pallini Beach is perhaps its greatest asset. Situated two hours by car from the airport and a good 45 minutes from the pulsating dance music of larger clubs and resorts, guests can easily avoid the party crowds if they wish.
At the heart of this adults-only hotel lies its infinity-edge pool. With white fabric beds and loungers facing the sea, it creates a serene spot for sunbathing between treatments at the award-winning Soma spa and enjoying Greek-Italian dishes at Antonino's. The menu features wood-fired pizzas, dakos salads, cacio e pepe, and grilled local fish, all paired with local Halkidiki wines.
Culinary Delights Across the Peninsula
For those eager to explore beyond the hotel, the peninsula is celebrated for its cuisine. Specialities include Halkidiki olives, spanakopita (a flaky filo pie filled with spinach and feta or kefalograviera cheese), moussaka, and fresh fish. Just a half-hour drive from the hotel lies the popular town of Afytos. With its cobbled streets, souvenir shops, and picturesque setting high above the sea, it attracts both locals and tourists. Booking ahead is advisable for popular spots like Notos cocktail bar, where sunsets are as legendary as the cocktails, and Thea Thalassa restaurant, serving expertly cooked, fresh seafood.
Closer to the hotel, Mnēmes offers a farm-to-table experience in the village of Pefkochori. Rustic solid wood tables are set among ancient olive trees adorned with fairy lights, creating a romantic setting. The menu features slow charcoal-roasted salt-crusted lamb, chicken souvlaki, and giant pans of orzo topped with pulled beef shin. Save room for dessert, a decadent array of baklava, honey-soaked orange sponge cake, and profiteroles filled with rich local cream and drenched in chocolate or honey.
Beach Clubs and Local Recommendations
Following a recommendation from the friendly hotel staff, Emilee Tombs and her friends visited Casa Mercedes, a new beach club on the peninsula that had been fully booked since opening a few months prior. With a monochrome theme extending from interiors to staff uniforms, it wouldn't look out of place in Ibiza. The trendy menu includes sushi, sashimi, tacos, and Greek meze, accompanied by fine wines from estates across the Peloponnese, Burgundy, and Provence.
A DJ spins tunes from midday to midnight, and while it can get lively, the vibe during a Sunday daytime visit was decidedly laid-back. Showers stocked with luxurious Greek toiletries allow guests to transition from beach to club seamlessly, or they can hire the private space adjacent to the main restaurant, complete with a pool, day beds, and its own DJ decks.
A Perfect Weekend Escape
Back at Domes Noruz Kassandra, after a massage with soothing Elemis products, it was time to head to Thessaloniki for the return flight. The journey from London Heathrow on a 9.05am flight allowed for Greek salad by the sea by 4pm Greek time. A Sunday afternoon flight home meant packing in plenty of relaxation and delicious local cuisine within just 48 hours, a rarity for a Greek holiday. While the Greek islands dominate many wish lists, Halkidiki emerges as a hidden gem on the mainland, perfect for a weekend escape.
Emilee Tombs was a guest of Domes Noruz Kassandra. For travel, British Airways flies from London Heathrow to Thessaloniki, easyJet from London Gatwick, and Ryanair from London Stansted, with a flight time of 3 hours and 20 minutes. Visitors can hire a car from the airport or book a taxi for the drive to the Kassandra peninsula. Domes Noruz Kassandra offers a stylish, recently renovated adults-only resort right on the beach.
