Athos Peninsula, the third peninsula of Halkidiki, a center of Orthodoxy and a natural gem of Greece, represents a blend of spirituality, history, and natural beauty. Athos is less popular than Kassandra and Sithonia, mainly because most of the peninsula is occupied by the Holy Mountain – home to 20 Orthodox monasteries and hundreds of monks, making it one of the most important religious centers of Orthodox Christianity.

Athos is the easternmost part of Halkidiki, covering an area of about 390 square kilometers. Mount Athos rises at the southernmost tip of the peninsula, which reaches a height of 2033 meters, offering a spectacular view from its summit.

Athos Peninsula is an autonomous monastic community under Greek sovereignty and has enjoyed a special status since the 10th century. According to the Greek Constitution, the part of the peninsula known as the Holy Mountain is a self-governing region, an autonomous part of the Greek state, politically under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Greece, and spiritually under the jurisdiction of the Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople in Istanbul. The capital and administrative center of the Holy Mountain is Karyes. Since 1988, the Holy Mountain has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for both its cultural and natural significance.

The part of Athos outside the borders of the Holy Mountain is open to tourists and offers numerous vacation opportunities. Among the most popular destinations are Ierissos, Nea Rodha, Olympiada, and Ouranoupolis, also known as the Gateway to the Holy Mountain. These villages provide local supermarkets, while Ierissos also features larger stores like Lidl and Masoutis. Additionally, a market is held every Tuesday in Ierissos, ideal for purchasing fresh produce.

The Athos region is rich in lush vegetation, sandy beaches, and crystal-clear waters, providing the perfect environment for nature lovers. For a relaxing day in the sun, popular beaches include Komitsa, Kakoudia, Xiropotamos, Voulitsa, Legend Beach, and those near Olympiada.

The only inhabited island in this region, Ammouliani, is a true oasis with numerous beaches such as Alikes, Karagatsia, Agios Georgios, and Megali Ammos. The island is easily accessible by ferry from Tripiti and is known for its peaceful atmosphere and crystal-clear waters.

The Drenia Islands, also known as the Donkey Islands, are perfect for a day trip by boat, offering untouched beaches and a serene environment, ideal for swimming and diving.

Located near Ierissos, the Kakovo Monastery, a metochion of the Hilandar Monastery, is a spiritual oasis offering visitors a peaceful setting to relax and explore natural beauties such as fish ponds and green areas. It is highly recommended as a stop on your journey, along with the ancient city of Stagira, believed to be the birthplace of Aristotle, where an interactive park is located.

Boat trips along the coastline of the Holy Mountain, departing from Ouranoupolis, provide spectacular views of the impressive monasteries perched on cliffs and the untouched nature of this unique place.

Athos is more than just a geographical location – it is a symbol of spirituality, peace, and tradition. Regardless of the reason for your visit, the Mount Athos Peninsula will leave a lasting impression, offering an unforgettable experience to every visitor.

Visit the following link for the complete list of accommodations in Athos.