Off-the-Beaten-Path Greece: The Best Greek Islands to Visit
Greece, the enchanted land of mythology, picture-perfect beaches, extravagant parties and tremendous history. This European country is a sought after adventure destination famous for its ruins, most notably the Acropolis, and islands known for their sunsets, blue domes, and nightlife hotspots.
With all of this, there is still far more of Greece to explore. Why not experience areas not as well known and off-the-beaten-path on your holiday? Peloponnese, a southern peninsula region and Halkidiki, a northern peninsula region are two areas filled with gorgeous beaches, secret coves, historical sites, quaint towns, and plenty more to experience.
Peloponnese
Peloponnese is connected to central Greece by the Isthmus of Corinth land bridge. This region is known for its kalamata olives, olive oil, and oranges. Citrus and olive groves sprawl as far as the eye can see. Locals here use the oranges and cinnamon in many savory dishes, as well as sweet ones. A couple of local treats include lalangia and diples, both types of fried dough. Lalangia is a fried rope, similar to a churro, and diples are sheets covered in honey and walnuts.
For history buffs visiting Peloponnese, the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Olympia is a must-see. The Olympic Games were held there from 776 BC — 393 AD and although it’s mostly ruins now, you can still see the temples of Zeus and Hera, the Gymnasium, and the Stadium where chariots rode through!
Mystra
In Mystra, an ancient fortified city situated on Mt. Taygetos near Sparta in Peloponnese, you can explore the remains of a castle, monastery, and palace. For water and beach lovers, located just a ferry ride away, Simos Beach on Elafonisos Island is the place to scuba dive or simply swim in the sparkling turquoise sea — the ultimate holiday experience.
Mani Peninsula
The Mani Peninsula is located in the center the three peninsulas which extend southward. It has a more naturally wild and less touristy vibe. There are mountain villages, several walking trails, spectacular waters, and fortified towers that have been converted into quaint hotels. The 2014 movie, “Before Midnight,” starring Ehtan Hawk and Julie Delphy was also partially filmed there.
Halkidiki
Heading north, Halkidiki or Chalkidiki, is one large peninsula with three more of its own (called fingers, legs, or prongs of a trident, depending on who you talk to). Halkidiki is known for its olive oil, fresh fish, strong cheese, and red wine. There are also wine routes to explore and cheese making factories (tirokomios) to visit. Fun fact: the Guinness Book of World Records visited Lerissos of Halkidiki where they made the largest caprice (goat) cheese in the world, weighing in at 939 kilograms!
Once you’ve explored Halkidiki, head over to its peninsulas: Kassandra, Sithonia, and Athos, each with their distinct differences.
Athos
Athos is a closed monastery with very limited access. Located on Mount Athos, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the monastery only allows male pilgrims to stay three days. Women and children are forbidden to visit.
Sithonia
Sithonia is the less touristy of the other two peninsulas. It has more secluded coves like Spathies Beach. Sithonia is surrounded by pine trees that reach to the beach. The water is clear and full of life, but also with a rocky sea floor where sea urchins like to hide. There are many trails to walk and mountain bike, or you can rent a boat for a sailing trip to see the area from a unique point of view.
Kassandra
If you decide you’d like a little more action, you can wander to the western most peninsula of Kassandra. There you will find resorts, spas, festivals throughout the year, and an exciting nightlife.
Also near Kassandra, for those interested in archeology, is Halkidiki, home to Petralona’s Cave (known as the Cave of the Red Stones). Here the remains of a 700,000 year old young woman was discovered, one of the earliest human findings in Europe.
CHECK OUT MORE OF OUR FAVORITE DESTINATIONS IN GREECE
From visiting historical sites, to mountain biking, to scuba diving and drinking red wine with tasty cheese, these lesser-known Greek destinations offer many attractions just waiting to be traveled.
Greece is full of rich culture, natural beauty, and off-the-beaten-path gems worthy of visiting that make for a very rewarding experience. Your own path to Greek adventures awaits!
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