Athos Ouranoupolis lies on the Halkidiki Peninsula in northern Greece. The Peninsula has three prongs and Athos Ouranoupolis is situated on the most eastern leg, the Athos Peninsular. It lies on the western side very close to Athos, the Holy Mountain. It is one hundred and thirty kilometres from Thessalonika and has a transfer time from the airport of two hours. Athos Ouranoupolis was originally a fishing village and its old harbour remains. Surrounded by hills with olive groves and vineyards, it is a very attractive resort. It has good sand and shingle beaches that provide a variety of water sports. Athos Ouranoupolis is a relaxed and peaceful resort as befits its close proximity to the Holy Mountain.
An Athos Ouranoupolis holiday offers relaxation in an area of great natural beauty, a guarantee of summer sun, warm clear waters of the Aegean Sea, and a range of recreational activities both in and out of the water. Added to these benefits are good traditional food and the warm hospitality of the local people.
An Athos Ouranoupolis holiday is popular with families and couples of all ages. Families with small children enjoy the beach with safe bathing in calm waters. Those looking for a peaceful retreat will not have to search far as there are so many quiet and secluded coves in which to relax.
Although the holiday season lasts from April until October when the temperature ranges from twenty to thirty degrees, summer is the most popular time to visit Athos Ouranoupolis.
Athos Ouranoupolis is an old fishing village at the gateway to Mount Athos which has developed into a relaxed resort popular with families. It lies on the western coast of the Athos Peninsular and is washed by the clear waters of the Aegean Sea. Surrounded by verdant hills and with Mount Athos to the south, Athos Ouranoupolis lies in an area of great natural beauty. The main beaches are comprised of sand and shingle and offer a variety of water sports. There are also many small secluded coves in the vicinity where you can enjoy a degree of privacy. There are many tavernas, cafes and bars along the beach providing daylong refreshments and evening entertainment. There is limited shopping but it is sufficient for basic essentials and the obligatory souvenirs.
Although Athos Ouranoupolis is very close to the Autonomous Monastic State of the Holy Mountain, very few visitors are ever able to visit. There is no entry by road, only by sea, and there are a very limited number of permits issued each day to visitors and these must be male and preferably of the Eastern Orthodox Faith.
An Athos Ouranoupolis holiday offers a relaxing break in pretty surroundings with a guarantee of summer sunshine, warm clear blue waters and wonderful hospitality.
Athos Ouranoupolis is as relaxed by night as it is by day, reflecting the family nature of the resort. Much of the entertainment is hotel based with live shows and traditional Greek evenings. There are many excellent restaurants where you can enjoy a meal and a drink under the stars.
Athos Ouranoupolis shopping is limited to mini-markets providing everyday essentials and the usual number of gift shops where you can purchase your holiday mementoes. Popular souvenirs are ceramics, leather goods, gold and silver jewellery and embroidered linens.
Athos Ouranoupolis has a good number of tavernas and restaurants providing a range of cuisine from traditional fish dishes to international fare. There are also many fast food outlets for those with a more conservative and unadventurous palate.
Eating out in Greece is a pleasure not to be rushed, so don’t mistake the relaxed attitude of waiters for tardy service. A good way to try traditional food is to order Mezedes, the Greek equivalent of the Spanish tapas, which includes a variety of bite-sized fish, meat and vegetables.
Children are always made very welcome in restaurants and their portion size and tastes are usually accommodated.
