Most popular Sightseeings in Halkidiki Region
Aristotle Park - Stagira Halkidiki
In the beautiful mountainous village of Stagira, Aristotle, in a park overlooking the bay of Ierissos, is the “Aristotelous Alsos”. The grove that has been operating since 2003 and is the only theme park in Chalkidiki. It is worth visiting to see the interesting instruments and enjoy the wonderful view. The grove was pre-existed and the wonderful location was chosen in 1956 to host the imposing statue of Aristotle, the work of sculptor Nicholas, to honor the great philosopher who was born in Ancient Stagira.
The park is dedicated to the famous Greek philosopher, Aristotle and includes a series of interesting instruments which when used properly will show the phenomena of nature. These experimental instruments, operating by rules of physics are mentioned in Aristotle’s textbooks and especially in the one called “The Naturals”. The instruments include a prism, optical discs, sounding bars, a compass, sundial and pendulum – all illustrating important phenomena studied by the great philosopher.
Petralona Cave - Halkidiki
Petralona Cave is one of Europe’s most impressive and important caves thanks to its wealth of fossils (one of the richest collections in Europe) and to the discovery of a human skull that dates back approximately 700.000 years and it is located near the village of Petralona, on Katsika Hill. The cave was discovered by Philippos Hantzaridis on May 10, 1959 and became known for his palaeontological and paleoanthropological findings as early as 1960, after the accidental discovery in the cave by Petralona resident X. Sariyiannidis, the famous fossilized human skull. The value of the find and its uniqueness gave rise to a series of work inside and outside the cave. In 1968 and in the period 1974-1988 excavations were carried out in the cave by the anthropologist Aris Poulianos.
Nature has always been an unpredictable designer. This is more than obvious entering Petralona Cave, formed around a million years ago. The locals call it "the red-rock cave" due to the colour that the bauxite deposits give to the stone. The natural hollow stretches over a zone of 10,400m² and comprises of a progression of stoas, chambers, high roofs and pools, loaded with stalactites, stalagmites, draperies and shields, segments and different arrangements.
Cultural Center Ierissos - Halkidiki
It is housed in an impressive building in the center of Ierissos, since 2004. It was approved by the European Investment Bank as a center for the promotion of the Athonite heritage and the promotion of the Mount Athos area with the use of modern technology. The first successful attempt of the center’s partners was the creation of a high-resolution video titled Travelogue in Moun Athos. The 3D “travelogue to Mount Athos” is a journey through the sanctuary of Mount Athos. A presentation of the monastic way of life. Experience the 1.000-year-old history of the Monastic Republic which still continues until today. In the Holy Virgin’s garden peace and solitude help, one’s soul revive. The sound of the bells, the rustling of the leaves, the Byzantine chimes create the uniqueness a soul needs to relax. This stereoscopic journey presents Ecumenicalism and the everlasting Orthodox meaning. A major goal of this effort is to show the outside world the cultural and religious heritage of Mount Athos and mainly to women who cannot visit due to the “Avaton” Rule which forbids them to live this magical experience. It is available in Greek, English, German, Russian and Bulgarian language.
In 2010, other movies were also filmed such as the SeaWorld and the Aesop’s Fables. It has a modern amphitheater with a curved screen 50sq.m. In size and 4 projectors for the projection of 3D movies (that viewers watch wearing special glasses), as well as an exhibition hall. The exhibition hall this period hosts the photo exhibition "Mount Athos: 1000 years in 100 photos".
Waterfalls of Varvara - Halkidiki
Varvara’s waterfalls are hidden in the dense forest belonging to Varvara, but are closer to the Olympiada. Following the asphalt forest road of Varvara-Olympiada, this is one of the most beautiful asphalt routes in Halkidiki. Includes two waterfalls, ending with shrubs, almonds, shrubs, beeches, wild hazelnuts that grow all over, while the rocks in bright colors form a kind of a gate at the top. Both the location and the sense of calm, serenity and contact with the natural element make you think you have discovered a piece of heaven on earth.
The first waterfall is visible from above, while in the second you will feel the momentum of the water, even in the summer. The walking path of discovery is short (5-10 minutes) and both the wooden bridges and the right signage contribute positively to the pleasure of the unique landscape. The place is ideal for families with young children who are sure to be thrilled.
Thermal springs Agia Paraskevi - Halkidiki
The state-of-the-art hydrotherapy spa (SPA) is renowned for its rare healing properties, it is aimed at all ages and has swimming pools, saunas, steam baths, sprinklers, hydro massage (individual and team) for healing and rejuvenation. The hydrotherapy meets the needs of modern humans, who work and move permanently at a fast pace. It offers relaxation in a wonderful environment with full medical support. The water is indicated for many diseases such as bones, joints and muscles, as well as for skin diseases.
The first source was discovered by a farmer who was looking for sulfur to sprinkle his vines. After the end of the Second World War, the residents blew the rocks with dynamite and spilled the hydrosulphur water at a temperature of 39 o C from the volcano, where the new Thermopigi was created. Originally it was named the source of Saint Nicholas and later Agia Paraskevi. At the site of the springs, in the first years a small parapet with two halls was created and in 2000 the new ultra-modern building was built. Thus, a small spa was developed, the source was dedicated to the grace of the Zoodochos spring and reconstructed its chapel.