OURANOPOLIS
Area: Halkidiki
Country: Greece


Location:
Road to Akti Peninsula and Mount Athos is surfaced to Ouranopolis then peters out within a mile or so. Thereafter the Clerical State of Athos whose remote monasteries may only be reached by a combination of boat and strenuous walking (permit needed; men only). On land sloping gently to sea, facing small offshore islands.

Telephone code from UK:
30 23770

Description:
Former small fishing village retains fortified stone tower, traditional fishing vessels, a few old houses. The rest is new and mainly for tourists, but strictly controlled to preserve considerable atmosphere. Buildings are 3-storeys maximum; waterfront street is traffic free.

Suitability:
For quiet holiday in fishing village/beach location surrounded by fine countryside and coastal scenery. Relaxing place with very little nightlife.

Accommodation:
Many small hotels and guests houses in village; better and larger hotels on road leading in.

Shopping:
All basic necessities available for self-caterers. Tourist shops sell usual range including silverware, ceramics, fake icons.Nightlife: playing "find the nightspot" could keep you amused for an hour or so. The larger hotels have dancing, and lay on the odd Greek night.

Beach:
Town beaches of fine sand and gravel, surprisingly clean, between breakwaters on two sides of town. Small sandy coves and larger beaches are strung along the 5 miles towards Tripiti.

Entertainments:
Good choice of restaurants facing the harbour and in the street behind; varied local fare with a smattering of fast food/pizza possibilities.

Eating:
Bus to Thessaloniki and intermediate points; 5 per day.

Public-transport:
Boat trips along the coast, towards Mount Athos. The monks allow no women into their domain, so mixed sex boatloads have to stay offshore. Caves of Petralona. Sightseeing and shopping trips to Thessaloniki or Kavala are possible; all are full day trips.

Local-excursions:
On the W coast of the Akti peninsula near where it "joins" the mainland. 90 miles SE of Thessaloniki, 85 miles SE of its airport.