Sithonia

The second finger of Halkidiki is much more rugged and mountainous. Roads are windy for the first part then become more gentle as the coastline gets flatter. The coastal road drive is stunning, with little bays coming into view around every bend. You are surrounded by the lush greenery and the smell of the pines (pefka) is ever present. Choose a different beach every day, and even the very popular won't be unpleasantly packed, especially during the heat of the day. Greeks head for the beach generally in the late afternoon, after the main heat of the day has gone. In fact many will be just arriving when the "mad dogs and Englishmen" are packing up for the day. Halkidiki's beaches are mostly sand or shingle. What makes them so great is the lack of crowds and the crystal clear water.