Greece's gorgeous Halkidiki Peninsula is split into three distinctive regions, each of which extends a long finger into the glittering Aegean Sea. Athos, the easternmost part, remains the least-visited: expect to encounter pilgrims, rather than party-focused holidaymakers, on your rambles. Much of this region is still home to an ancient monastic community on Mount Athos, which has been the spiritual capital of the Orthodox Christian world for centuries. A self-governed territory within Greece, travellers will need to source written permits in order to enter the Mount Athos community. There's a second twist, in that only male visitors and pilgrims may visit Mount Athos, where worship is dedicated to the Virgin Mary. The northern portion of the peninsula, however, is open to all, and very beautiful in its own right. Follow walking trails up hills and through verdant forests, spotting a plethora of birds as you amble along, stopping in pretty villages for long Greek lunches in the shade. The beaches of the Athos coast are quieter than elsewhere in the Halkidiki Peninsula, and sailing trips are a wonderful way to admire the natural beauty of Mount Athos from the water. Ideal for those seeking a slower pace of life, our favourite hotels in Athos range from simple bungalows to swish seaside resorts, perfect for the whole family.

Our Favourite Hotels in Athos

For Simple Style

• Skites Hotel Bungalows, an easygoing escape slightly south of Ouranopolis, has blue-shuttered bungalows with space for families or groups. Follow scenic walking trails, visit ancient nearby monasteries and aqueducts, and swim at the pretty pebbled beach. Spend your evenings cooking together and chatting on your garden-facing terrace. Intimate, simple and charming, this is an idyllic retreat.
• Gkeea Boutique Hotel is a great value base set just 100 metres from the beach in Ierissos, on the east coast. Minimalist interiors have clean lines and a restful palette of grey and mauve. An affordable modern hotel with good breakfasts in a great location.

For Luxury

• Eagles Palace Hotel & Spa is an expansive luxury resort on the western side of Athos, close to Ouranoupoli. An impressive 154 indulgent rooms and suites are bedecked in earthy terracotta, blue and white tones. With a kids club, outdoors activities ranging from water sports to nature-focused hikes, and soothing spa treatments, guests of all ages will adore their stay.
• Avaton Luxury Beach Resort overlooks picturesque Koumitsa beach, on the peninsula's east coast. Think sleek interiors with quirky modern art pieces, private plunge pools and polished concrete floors. A contemporary escape for couples, friends and families in a secluded part of Greece.
• Eagles Villas is another spoiling seaside resort, with luxurious studios, bungalows and villas, largely decorated in white, with wood and rattan accents. Airy villas have plunge pools, and there's a sensational spa with kids' treatments. A restful oasis in the sunshine.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Expand your search to include all the best places to stay in Halkidiki.
• Alternatively, check out our list of the 12 Best Beach Hotels in Halkidiki.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.

  • Skites Hotel Bungalows Ouranopolis, Halkidiki 25 rooms from £94

    
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    Families  -  With expansive grounds, the sea right there, a laidback feel, and family suites - this is perfect for those travelling with kids

    Hideaway  -  With bungalows barely visible against the foliage and no other properties in views - this is a tranquil hideaway

    Restaurant  -  Home cooked Greek meals are served in the restaurant

    Sights nearby  -  Visit the UNESCO Heritage site, Mount Athos

    

    A collection of blue-shuttered bungalows and rooms set in an area of designated natural beauty. Interiors are characterful and traditional with stone floors, uneven whitewashed walls, and beamed ceilings. With a pool and a jetty to sunbathe on plus homemade Greek cuisine, this is a quaint hideaway. See More

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  • Gkeea Boutique Hotel Halkidiki 16 rooms from £69

    
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    Beach Life  -  Just 100m from the beach, with 70 more beautiful blue flag beaches within easy reach, an ideal spot for a seaside holiday

    Value chic  -  Chic contemporary accommodation with everything you need offered at very reasonable rates

    Sights nearby  -  Explore ruined cities, castles and Byzantine churches and feel the palpable history of this region

    Sailing  -  Hire a boat to sail around Mount Athos to see the incredible cliffside monasteries

    

    A smart modern hotel, well positioned close to a number of beaches. Interiors are minimal and sleek with simple contemporary fittings, while comfortable rooms, in a subdued grey and mauve palette, are decorated with minimalist style and feature luxurious bathrooms. A great base, and good value too! See More

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  • Eagles Palace Hotel & Spa Ouranopolis, Halkidiki 165 rooms from £235

    
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    Families  -  families are well catered for with a kids' club, a designated pool, and babysitting

    Foodies  -  A two-star Michelin chef has designed the menus offering contemporary Greek fare

    Spa  -  Take a break and feel refreshed and re-energised from one of the many spa therapies on offer

    Sailing  -  Explore the coastline on a cruise organised by the hotel

    

    Recommended by  -  Tablet, Small Luxury Hotels

    A luxury resort with a private beach and an abundance of activities. Sleek contemporary rooms are decorated in neutral hues and simple minimalist design draws attention to spectacular beach views. With indoor and outdoor pools and menus designed by a Michelin starred chef- this is an indulgent stay. See More

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  • Avaton Luxury Beach Resort Halkidiki 36 rooms from £325

    
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    Families  -  Great for families with multi room villas and suites with private pools, and a plethora of activities for all ages

    Beach Life  -  These luxury villas have easy beach access making it an easy and relaxing seaside base

    Sights nearby  -  Head to ancient Stagira, an important ancient city of Halkidiki, and Zigou, the oldest monastery in the Athos peninsula

    Great walks  -  Wander around the picturesque Artistotle Park in Stagira

    

    Recommended by  -  Relais & Chateaux

    Luxury villas and suites with private pools surrounded by lush gardens leading right to the beach which is peppered with comfy loungers. Interiors are sleek and stylish with quirky artwork. Enjoy a romantic meal under the canopy of pretty fabric gazebos while gazing at the sea. A coastal treat! See More

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  • Eagles Villas Ouranoupoli, Halkidiki 42 rooms from £508

    
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    Beach Life  -  Boasting a private beach and sea views from every suite, book this hotel for your next luxury seaside getaway

    Families  -  Larger villas are great for a family stay, offering bigger swimming pools and extra living space

    Romantic Break  -  These discreet, private villas with sea views make a picturesque setting for a romantic break

    Sights nearby  -  Take a boat trip departing from the gulf to the historic monasteries on Mount Athos, know as the Holy Mountain

    

    Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith, Small Luxury Hotels

    This family-run resort comprises a collection of luxury villas overlooking the coast in Ouranopolis. Each villa unfolds around a plunge pool, with contemporary interiors and terraces that offer spectacular sea views. Be sure to sample the tasting menu at the beautiful hotel restaurant, Lofos. See More

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Written by Saskia Walker

posted Wednesday, 8th May 2024