Discover Halkidiki

                 sand1

The Halkidiki Peninsula consists of three small peninsulas: Kassandra in the west, Sithonia in the middle and Mount Athos in the east. These three “Legs” give Halkidiki a unique geographical form and a coastal length of about 550km.

It is a blessed place, rich in its rare natural assets, with scattered wetlands and an extraordinary fauna and flora, where the blue color of the sea is wonderfully combined with the green color of the mainland. Here, the beautiful change of scenery, from rocks to coves, beaches to hills, sand to pine trees, gulfs to mountains, impresses visitors.

Sithonia - Around the Villas

Diaporos Island

Its fabulous natural coves & white sand beaches. Walk around the island and discover this eco-friendly paradise.

Vourvourou

Vourvourou, just a few minutes boat ride from Diaporos, is a region with a pleasant sea breeze, beautiful beaches, a mountain covered with thick forests and a lot of taverns & restaurants.

Vourvourou

Vourvourou, just a few minutes boat ride from Diaporos, is a region with a pleasant sea breeze, beautiful beaches, a mountain covered with thick forests and a lot of taverns & restaurants.

Ormos Panagias

The “Ormos Panagias” bay is basically a fishing area. Just 3 miles away from Diaporos, this village is worth a visit for fresh fish that you can enjoy at the beach, with the wave of the sea right at your feet
the-old-nikiti-sithonia-greece-39-min

Nikiti, its old Village and seafront

Nikiti is one of the most picturesque village in Halkidiki.

10 min by car from our 3 Palm Welcome, it is classified as a historical settlement. The village was built on the hills, has many springs and an old small square with three fountains.

It was built in 1867, burnt during the civil war and rebuilt between 1950 and 1952
Beachside, develop in 1950, is full of café/bar/traditional taverns and restaurant on the beach. Nightlife entertainment

The old village has its own architectural style, with old stone-built houses, coming straight from previous centuries. You can stroll down the cobblestone alleys, smelling the flowers that are everywhere and relax at one of the traditional taverns. The village overlooks the peninsula of Kassandra and offers a fantastic view to the Toroneos Gulf. It’s a relaxing way to pass the time and you can also make the best of the turquoise waters and relaxing beach bars.

Placed in ancient Galipsos, Nikiti, was related to the Peloponnesian War and most of the region formerly belonged to monasteries of Mt. Athos.

Worth it to see in Nikiti:

  • The old town of Nikiti, built in 1830; the church of St. Nikitas (1867) and the old school (19th century) that has turned into the local History and Folklore Museum and offers interesting insights into the area’s past.
  • The cemetery church built in the 16th century, of which the central nave and some frescoes are preserved.
  • Also, St. George church, the early Christian basilica of the 5th century and St. Sophronios, the early Christian basilica dedicated to Agios Sophronios.

Worth it to See

Ammouliani

The Ammouliani island located in the east part of Halkidiki is famous as it is the only populated island in Central Macedonia with a permanent population around 600 people; until 1925 was a dependency of the Vatopediou Monastery of Mt. Athos.

This majestic island right across Mont Athos is perfect for swimming & diving.

Porto Koufo

In the 5th century B.C. Greek historian Thucydides called Porto Koufo the safest harbor in ancient Greece. Porto Koufo is surrounded by steep mountains forming a majestic sapphire blue lake that looks more like a fjord. The name, ’deaf harbor’, was given to Porto Koufo since the sea could not be heard from the port.

The landscape at Porto Koufo is one of the most impressive of Halkidiki, as the port is enclosed by cliffs, leaving only an opening of approximately 300 metres for the vessel and fishing boats to go through.

Porto Koufo

In the 5th century B.C. Greek historian Thucydides called Porto Koufo the safest harbor in ancient Greece. Porto Koufo is surrounded by steep mountains forming a majestic sapphire blue lake that looks more like a fjord. The name, ’deaf harbor’, was given to Porto Koufo since the sea could not be heard from the port.

The landscape at Porto Koufo is one of the most impressive of Halkidiki, as the port is enclosed by cliffs, leaving only an opening of approximately 300 metres for the vessel and fishing boats to go through.

Parthenonas

Considering like the most beautiful village of Sithonia, listed as a traditional settlement since 1978, Parthenonas takes you back in time to the simple Greek lifestyle of the locals. Nothing moves fast in this village.

Parthenonas is a quaint historical village located at an elevation of 350 m on the side of the mountain about 6 km outside Neos Marmaras, Sithonia, Halkidiki. Well worth doing as a day hike.

This historical village can easily keep you entertained for a day or more, as you hike up the mount Itamos for a view of Mount Athos to the east and Mount Olympus to the west.  Enjoy the surrounding hiking trails through the olive groves. Take a mountain bike and ride the trails which cross the mountains of Sithonia.

Neo Marmaras

Neos Marmaras is one of the most cosmopolitan villages in Sithonia which combines relaxation and entertainment for all ages.

That’s town founded in 1922 by refugees from the island of Marmara in Asia Minor. Local tradition is symbolized by the boat called “Santala” which used as fishing fleet. Neos Marmaras is now the most cosmopolitan in Sithonia. It provides all kind of accommodation, camping sites, bars, cafes, taverns, wine shops, folk art shops, health center, etc.

Worth it to see:

  • The replica of the boat “Santala” which stands in the town’s harbor.

  • The “Tripotamos metochi” of 19th century, a building complex of Kastamonitou Monastery and the “metochi” of the Monastery Gregoriou built in 1865.

Neo Marmaras

Neos Marmaras is one of the most cosmopolitan villages in Sithonia which combines relaxation and entertainment for all ages.

That’s town founded in 1922 by refugees from the island of Marmara in Asia Minor. Local tradition is symbolized by the boat called “Santala” which used as fishing fleet. Neos Marmaras is now the most cosmopolitan in Sithonia. It provides all kind of accommodation, camping sites, bars, cafes, taverns, wine shops, folk art shops, health center, etc.

Worth it to see:

  • The replica of the boat “Santala” which stands in the town’s harbor.

  • The “Tripotamos metochi” of 19th century, a building complex of Kastamonitou Monastery and the “metochi” of the Monastery Gregoriou built in 1865.

Worthwhile Beaches

Kavourotrypes

Considering like the most beautiful one in Halkidiki, known also as Portokali (Orange beach) is located between Armenistis and Platanisi beaches in Sithonia. Undoubtedly, it is the real paradise on earth; it is a golden sandy beach with crystal-clear, emerald and shallow waters with great view to Mt. Athos surrounded by pine trees and white rocks

Kalamitsi

Kalamitsi is an astonishing, well-organized beach with soft, white sand and remarkably emerald, clear waters which is surrounded by huge rocks. In Kalamitsi beach there are plenty of water sports activities such as scuba diving, snorkeling or canoeing

Kalamitsi

Kalamitsi is an astonishing, well-organized beach with soft, white sand and remarkably emerald, clear waters which is surrounded by huge rocks. In Kalamitsi beach there are plenty of water sports activities such as scuba diving, snorkeling or canoeing

Karydi beach

A series of small, dreamy beaches, near Vourvourou.  Pine trees cascading to the turquoise waters, fine white sand and rocks in wonderful formations

Sarti beach

Sarti beach is Sithonia’s pragmatic beach, everything you need is here. The ‘Blue Flag’ Sarti beach seems to have no end, the wide stretch of yellow/white sand goes on for kilometers. The direct view to Mt. Athos is a real distinguishing feature of Sarti beach, you can’t find a better or closer view of Mt. Athos than from here.

Sarti beach

Sarti beach is Sithonia’s pragmatic beach, everything you need is here. The ‘Blue Flag’ Sarti beach seems to have no end, the wide stretch of yellow/white sand goes on for kilometers. The direct view to Mt. Athos is a real distinguishing feature of Sarti beach, you can’t find a better or closer view of Mt. Athos than from here.

Toroni beach

In the village of Toroni, an extremely long “Blue Flag” beach. This beach is so large and the tourists so few that it almost always appears to be quite empty. The setting of Toroni beach is quite spectacular with the ruins of the old Byzantine castle, Likythos, as its trademark. At the base of the ruins, the harbor affords some spectacular snorkeling and diving opportunities, here you can see the sunken ruins of the ancient town

Kassandra Peninsula

Afytos

 Located on Kassandra peninsula, Afytos is a vibrant village with wonderful sea views from a certain height. It has restaurants, shops, café-bars and many beautiful houses built by local craftsmen with local limestone. Of the houses open to visitors, it is worth taking a closer look at those of Katsanis and painter Paralis. Another site of interest is the central church of Aghios Dimitrios, built in the mid-19th century, which is the only one in basilica style with a dome in Halkidiki.

The cave of Petralona

It is located at the western foothills of mount Katsika, just outside the namesake refugee village of Petralona, ​​20 km northwest of Nea Moudania. The cave of Petralona has impressive stalagmite rooms, but what makes it so special is the fact that a human skull, protected in stalagmite material, was discovered in it.

The cave tour takes about 30 minutes and you will walk through several caverns that served as home to both humans and animals over the ages.

Next to the cave, you will find the Anthropological Museum of Petralona. Tel. +30 23730 71671.    

The cave of Petralona

It is located at the western foothills of mount Katsika, just outside the namesake refugee village of Petralona, ​​20 km northwest of Nea Moudania. The cave of Petralona has impressive stalagmite rooms, but what makes it so special is the fact that a human skull, protected in stalagmite material, was discovered in it.

The cave tour takes about 30 minutes and you will walk through several caverns that served as home to both humans and animals over the ages.

Next to the cave, you will find the Anthropological Museum of Petralona. Tel. +30 23730 71671.    

Ancient Olynthos: Archaeological site

Olynthos is built on two hills between the Kassandra and Sithonia peninsula of Halkidiki. Olynthos was, according to mythology, the son of Strymonas, King of Thrace, who was killed during a lion hunting. The town of Olynthos is said to have been constructed by Vraggas, Olynthos’ brother, in his memory and honor. Another explanation is that Olynthos was one of the sons of Hercules in the Greek mythology.

Most of the artifacts retrieved from this site are displayed at the local museum in Olynthos village and the collection results very interesting. The Olynthos museum even has an audio-video display, giving a complete tour of the archaeological site of Ancient Olynthos. Located only 5 kilometers from the highway, the site is only accessible with private transport as there are no buses going to this site. The site lies to the north east of Olynthos village and will not disappoint history enthusiasts.

Athos Peninsula

The famous Mount Athos

 “Legend has it that during the battle between the Gods and the giant Athos, a Thracian giant, threw a massive rock at Poseidon, but it slipped through his fingers and landed in the Aegean Sea forming the Athos peninsula”

Early risers will be rewarded with a truly magical moment and a feast for their eyes as they witness the spectacular sunrise over the Athos Mountain Peak. An Orthodox spiritual center since 1054, Mount Athos has enjoyed an autonomous statute since Byzantine times. The ‘Holy Mountain’, where access is forbidden to women and children, also constitutes a recognized artistic site.

We organize boat trip around the peninsula to observe from the sea the monasteries or possibilities for man to spend some day inside. (Visiting Athos is not a simple procedure)

Ouranoupoli, The gate of the Mount Athos

Ouranoupoli is a divine landscape, combining mountainous and sea beauties. This village resembles a serene painting, which welcomes the pilgrims against a setting of peaceful yet magnificent beauty and prepares them for their spiritual journey to Mount Athos.

Ouranoupoli, The gate of the Mount Athos

Ouranoupoli is a divine landscape, combining mountainous and sea beauties. This village resembles a serene painting, which welcomes the pilgrims against a setting of peaceful yet magnificent beauty and prepares them for their spiritual journey to Mount Athos.

Central Halkidiki

The Archaeological Museum of Polygyros

It is located in Heroou Square at the center of Polygyros. The exhibits cover a period ranging from the Bronze Age to the Roman period.

Open from 8.30 to 15.00, closed on Mondays, tel. +30 23710 22148.

Arnaia village

If you are looking to escape the heat of Halkidiki’s sunny beaches then how about a day trip north and up into the beautiful heartland of Halkidiki. The village of Arnea (Arnaia), about a 45-minute drive north of Nikiti, Sithonia, will give you a glimpse into the life of the local Macedonian culture. This picturesque ancient village is located under the peak of Mount Holomondas. From here you can escape into the woodlands of the wonderful Taxiarchis nature reserve for a hike or a picnic.

Arnaia village

If you are looking to escape the heat of Halkidiki’s sunny beaches then how about a day trip north and up into the beautiful heartland of Halkidiki. The village of Arnea (Arnaia), about a 45-minute drive north of Nikiti, Sithonia, will give you a glimpse into the life of the local Macedonian culture. This picturesque ancient village is located under the peak of Mount Holomondas. From here you can escape into the woodlands of the wonderful Taxiarchis nature reserve for a hike or a picnic.

+ Sithonia – Around the villas

Sithonia - Around the Villas

Diaporos Island

Its fabulous natural coves & white sand beaches. Walk around the island and discover this eco-friendly paradise.

Vourvourou

Vourvourou, just a few minutes boat ride from Diaporos, is a region with a pleasant sea breeze, beautiful beaches, a mountain covered with thick forests and a lot of taverns & restaurants.

Vourvourou

Vourvourou, just a few minutes boat ride from Diaporos, is a region with a pleasant sea breeze, beautiful beaches, a mountain covered with thick forests and a lot of taverns & restaurants.

Ormos Panagias

The “Ormos Panagias” bay is basically a fishing area. Just 3 miles away from Diaporos, this village is worth a visit for fresh fish that you can enjoy at the beach, with the wave of the sea right at your feet
+ Nikiti Area
the-old-nikiti-sithonia-greece-39-min

Nikiti, its old Village and seafront

Nikiti is one of the most picturesque village in Halkidiki.

10 min by car from our 3 Palm Welcome, it is classified as a historical settlement. The village was built on the hills, has many springs and an old small square with three fountains.

It was built in 1867, burnt during the civil war and rebuilt between 1950 and 1952
Beachside, develop in 1950, is full of café/bar/traditional taverns and restaurant on the beach. Nightlife entertainment

The old village has its own architectural style, with old stone-built houses, coming straight from previous centuries. You can stroll down the cobblestone alleys, smelling the flowers that are everywhere and relax at one of the traditional taverns. The village overlooks the peninsula of Kassandra and offers a fantastic view to the Toroneos Gulf. It’s a relaxing way to pass the time and you can also make the best of the turquoise waters and relaxing beach bars.

Placed in ancient Galipsos, Nikiti, was related to the Peloponnesian War and most of the region formerly belonged to monasteries of Mt. Athos.

Worth it to see in Nikiti:

  • The old town of Nikiti, built in 1830; the church of St. Nikitas (1867) and the old school (19th century) that has turned into the local History and Folklore Museum and offers interesting insights into the area’s past.
  • The cemetery church built in the 16th century, of which the central nave and some frescoes are preserved.
  • Also, St. George church, the early Christian basilica of the 5th century and St. Sophronios, the early Christian basilica dedicated to Agios Sophronios.
+ Worth it to See

Worth it to See

Ammouliani

The Ammouliani island located in the east part of Halkidiki is famous as it is the only populated island in Central Macedonia with a permanent population around 600 people; until 1925 was a dependency of the Vatopediou Monastery of Mt. Athos.

This majestic island right across Mont Athos is perfect for swimming & diving.

Porto Koufo

In the 5th century B.C. Greek historian Thucydides called Porto Koufo the safest harbor in ancient Greece. Porto Koufo is surrounded by steep mountains forming a majestic sapphire blue lake that looks more like a fjord. The name, ’deaf harbor’, was given to Porto Koufo since the sea could not be heard from the port.

The landscape at Porto Koufo is one of the most impressive of Halkidiki, as the port is enclosed by cliffs, leaving only an opening of approximately 300 metres for the vessel and fishing boats to go through.

Porto Koufo

In the 5th century B.C. Greek historian Thucydides called Porto Koufo the safest harbor in ancient Greece. Porto Koufo is surrounded by steep mountains forming a majestic sapphire blue lake that looks more like a fjord. The name, ’deaf harbor’, was given to Porto Koufo since the sea could not be heard from the port.

The landscape at Porto Koufo is one of the most impressive of Halkidiki, as the port is enclosed by cliffs, leaving only an opening of approximately 300 metres for the vessel and fishing boats to go through.

Parthenonas

Considering like the most beautiful village of Sithonia, listed as a traditional settlement since 1978, Parthenonas takes you back in time to the simple Greek lifestyle of the locals. Nothing moves fast in this village.

Parthenonas is a quaint historical village located at an elevation of 350 m on the side of the mountain about 6 km outside Neos Marmaras, Sithonia, Halkidiki. Well worth doing as a day hike.

This historical village can easily keep you entertained for a day or more, as you hike up the mount Itamos for a view of Mount Athos to the east and Mount Olympus to the west.  Enjoy the surrounding hiking trails through the olive groves. Take a mountain bike and ride the trails which cross the mountains of Sithonia.

Neo Marmaras

Neos Marmaras is one of the most cosmopolitan villages in Sithonia which combines relaxation and entertainment for all ages.

That’s town founded in 1922 by refugees from the island of Marmara in Asia Minor. Local tradition is symbolized by the boat called “Santala” which used as fishing fleet. Neos Marmaras is now the most cosmopolitan in Sithonia. It provides all kind of accommodation, camping sites, bars, cafes, taverns, wine shops, folk art shops, health center, etc.

Worth it to see:

  • The replica of the boat “Santala” which stands in the town’s harbor.

  • The “Tripotamos metochi” of 19th century, a building complex of Kastamonitou Monastery and the “metochi” of the Monastery Gregoriou built in 1865.

Neo Marmaras

Neos Marmaras is one of the most cosmopolitan villages in Sithonia which combines relaxation and entertainment for all ages.

That’s town founded in 1922 by refugees from the island of Marmara in Asia Minor. Local tradition is symbolized by the boat called “Santala” which used as fishing fleet. Neos Marmaras is now the most cosmopolitan in Sithonia. It provides all kind of accommodation, camping sites, bars, cafes, taverns, wine shops, folk art shops, health center, etc.

Worth it to see:

  • The replica of the boat “Santala” which stands in the town’s harbor.

  • The “Tripotamos metochi” of 19th century, a building complex of Kastamonitou Monastery and the “metochi” of the Monastery Gregoriou built in 1865.

+ Worthwhile Beaches

Worthwhile Beaches

Kavourotrypes

Considering like the most beautiful one in Halkidiki, known also as Portokali (Orange beach) is located between Armenistis and Platanisi beaches in Sithonia. Undoubtedly, it is the real paradise on earth; it is a golden sandy beach with crystal-clear, emerald and shallow waters with great view to Mt. Athos surrounded by pine trees and white rocks

Kalamitsi

Kalamitsi is an astonishing, well-organized beach with soft, white sand and remarkably emerald, clear waters which is surrounded by huge rocks. In Kalamitsi beach there are plenty of water sports activities such as scuba diving, snorkeling or canoeing

Kalamitsi

Kalamitsi is an astonishing, well-organized beach with soft, white sand and remarkably emerald, clear waters which is surrounded by huge rocks. In Kalamitsi beach there are plenty of water sports activities such as scuba diving, snorkeling or canoeing

Karydi beach

A series of small, dreamy beaches, near Vourvourou.  Pine trees cascading to the turquoise waters, fine white sand and rocks in wonderful formations

Sarti beach

Sarti beach is Sithonia’s pragmatic beach, everything you need is here. The ‘Blue Flag’ Sarti beach seems to have no end, the wide stretch of yellow/white sand goes on for kilometers. The direct view to Mt. Athos is a real distinguishing feature of Sarti beach, you can’t find a better or closer view of Mt. Athos than from here.

Sarti beach

Sarti beach is Sithonia’s pragmatic beach, everything you need is here. The ‘Blue Flag’ Sarti beach seems to have no end, the wide stretch of yellow/white sand goes on for kilometers. The direct view to Mt. Athos is a real distinguishing feature of Sarti beach, you can’t find a better or closer view of Mt. Athos than from here.

Toroni beach

In the village of Toroni, an extremely long “Blue Flag” beach. This beach is so large and the tourists so few that it almost always appears to be quite empty. The setting of Toroni beach is quite spectacular with the ruins of the old Byzantine castle, Likythos, as its trademark. At the base of the ruins, the harbor affords some spectacular snorkeling and diving opportunities, here you can see the sunken ruins of the ancient town
+ Kassandra Peninsula

Kassandra Peninsula

Afytos

 Located on Kassandra peninsula, Afytos is a vibrant village with wonderful sea views from a certain height. It has restaurants, shops, café-bars and many beautiful houses built by local craftsmen with local limestone. Of the houses open to visitors, it is worth taking a closer look at those of Katsanis and painter Paralis. Another site of interest is the central church of Aghios Dimitrios, built in the mid-19th century, which is the only one in basilica style with a dome in Halkidiki.

The cave of Petralona

It is located at the western foothills of mount Katsika, just outside the namesake refugee village of Petralona, ​​20 km northwest of Nea Moudania. The cave of Petralona has impressive stalagmite rooms, but what makes it so special is the fact that a human skull, protected in stalagmite material, was discovered in it.

The cave tour takes about 30 minutes and you will walk through several caverns that served as home to both humans and animals over the ages.

Next to the cave, you will find the Anthropological Museum of Petralona. Tel. +30 23730 71671.    

The cave of Petralona

It is located at the western foothills of mount Katsika, just outside the namesake refugee village of Petralona, ​​20 km northwest of Nea Moudania. The cave of Petralona has impressive stalagmite rooms, but what makes it so special is the fact that a human skull, protected in stalagmite material, was discovered in it.

The cave tour takes about 30 minutes and you will walk through several caverns that served as home to both humans and animals over the ages.

Next to the cave, you will find the Anthropological Museum of Petralona. Tel. +30 23730 71671.    

Ancient Olynthos: Archaeological site

Olynthos is built on two hills between the Kassandra and Sithonia peninsula of Halkidiki. Olynthos was, according to mythology, the son of Strymonas, King of Thrace, who was killed during a lion hunting. The town of Olynthos is said to have been constructed by Vraggas, Olynthos’ brother, in his memory and honor. Another explanation is that Olynthos was one of the sons of Hercules in the Greek mythology.

Most of the artifacts retrieved from this site are displayed at the local museum in Olynthos village and the collection results very interesting. The Olynthos museum even has an audio-video display, giving a complete tour of the archaeological site of Ancient Olynthos. Located only 5 kilometers from the highway, the site is only accessible with private transport as there are no buses going to this site. The site lies to the north east of Olynthos village and will not disappoint history enthusiasts.

+ Athos Peninsula

Athos Peninsula

The famous Mount Athos

 “Legend has it that during the battle between the Gods and the giant Athos, a Thracian giant, threw a massive rock at Poseidon, but it slipped through his fingers and landed in the Aegean Sea forming the Athos peninsula”

Early risers will be rewarded with a truly magical moment and a feast for their eyes as they witness the spectacular sunrise over the Athos Mountain Peak. An Orthodox spiritual center since 1054, Mount Athos has enjoyed an autonomous statute since Byzantine times. The ‘Holy Mountain’, where access is forbidden to women and children, also constitutes a recognized artistic site.

We organize boat trip around the peninsula to observe from the sea the monasteries or possibilities for man to spend some day inside. (Visiting Athos is not a simple procedure)

Ouranoupoli, The gate of the Mount Athos

Ouranoupoli is a divine landscape, combining mountainous and sea beauties. This village resembles a serene painting, which welcomes the pilgrims against a setting of peaceful yet magnificent beauty and prepares them for their spiritual journey to Mount Athos.

Ouranoupoli, The gate of the Mount Athos

Ouranoupoli is a divine landscape, combining mountainous and sea beauties. This village resembles a serene painting, which welcomes the pilgrims against a setting of peaceful yet magnificent beauty and prepares them for their spiritual journey to Mount Athos.

+ Central Halkidiki

Central Halkidiki

The Archaeological Museum of Polygyros

It is located in Heroou Square at the center of Polygyros. The exhibits cover a period ranging from the Bronze Age to the Roman period.

Open from 8.30 to 15.00, closed on Mondays, tel. +30 23710 22148.

Arnaia village

If you are looking to escape the heat of Halkidiki’s sunny beaches then how about a day trip north and up into the beautiful heartland of Halkidiki. The village of Arnea (Arnaia), about a 45-minute drive north of Nikiti, Sithonia, will give you a glimpse into the life of the local Macedonian culture. This picturesque ancient village is located under the peak of Mount Holomondas. From here you can escape into the woodlands of the wonderful Taxiarchis nature reserve for a hike or a picnic.

Arnaia village

If you are looking to escape the heat of Halkidiki’s sunny beaches then how about a day trip north and up into the beautiful heartland of Halkidiki. The village of Arnea (Arnaia), about a 45-minute drive north of Nikiti, Sithonia, will give you a glimpse into the life of the local Macedonian culture. This picturesque ancient village is located under the peak of Mount Holomondas. From here you can escape into the woodlands of the wonderful Taxiarchis nature reserve for a hike or a picnic.