The Halkidiki peninsula is immediately recognizable by its “three fingers” that stretch into the Aegean Sea. Kassandra and Sithonia draw crowds to their blissful beaches and growing adventure travel scene. Meanwhile Athos is the mysterious monk’s republic, where time has stopped at the Byzantine era.

Even if you usually yawn at resort-filled beach destinations, Sithonia’s beauty has the power to melt cynicism. Yes, tourists flock here to laze on beaches. But allow the scenery to work its magic: pine forests crowd a wild interior, fringing cliffsides that plummet tranquil coves. Sunsets are remarkable. Diving and watersports opportunities are excellent, and dozing on a beach might seem a little enticing after all.