The gateway to a world that time forgot. Nestled right on the edge of the monastic republic of Mount Athos, it’s where posh yachts meet ancient Byzantine towers, and the sunsets are genuinely second-to-none.
Why do people love going on holidays to Ouranopoli?
The Byzantine Watchtower - Standing proud right on the harbour, the Tower of Prosphorion is the town's calling card and makes for a dead stun backdrop for your holiday snaps.
Island Hopping in a Glass-Bottom Boat - You can sail over to the Drenia Islands (the locals call them Donkey Islands) and peer at the coral without even making a splash.
Monastery Cruising - Since you can't just wander into Mount Athos, jumping on a boat to see the mahoosive cliffside monasteries is a proper bucket-list moment.
Traditional Souvenirs - Forget plastic magnets; here you can buy honey, wine, and hand-painted icons made by the monks, which is way more boujee.
What is the best time to visit Ouranopoli?
Holidays to Ouranopoli change their tune depending on the month, going from a buzzing summer hotspot to a serene sanctuary when the air gets crisp. This magical piece of Halkidiki is known for its rugged, wild beauty that stays looking jaw-dropper even when the temperatures start to dip.
Spring - The wildflowers are popping off and it’s a grade-A time for mooching the forest trails without melting into your trainers.
Summer - The sun means business, with the town coming alive and the sea at a just-right temp-perfect for a cocktail on the sand.
Autumn - The sea stays warm enough for a dip but the crowds have cleared off, making it a swanky choice for a quiet getaway.
Winter - It’s the quietest season by far, ideal for a cheap, authentic retreat where you can enjoy local life at a slower pace.
What are the best beaches to visit on your Ouranopoli holidays
The coastline here is absolutely 10/10, with water so clear you’ll be checking if you’re in a swimming pool or the sea. It’s the kind of place where you can find a busy beach club or a secret cove to call your own.
Main Ouranopoli Beach - Right in the heart of town, this sandy stretch is perfect for families who want to be close to the snacks and bars to keep the party cool, calm and collected.
Drenia Islands (Donkey Islands) - A collection of tiny islets only reachable by boat, offering shallow turquoise lagoons that look proper tropical and picturesque.
Eagle Beach (Koumitsa) - One of the longest and most stun beaches in the area, great for those who want space to spread out.
Arsanas Beach - Located right on the border of Mount Athos, this pebble beach offers a spiritual vibe and crystal-clear water for snorkelling.
Things to do on your Ouranopoli holidays
Don’t get us wrong, we love a boozy day by the pool, but holidays to Ouranopoli have plenty of bits to keep you busy if you fancy a wander. It’s a mix of history, boat life, and Greek culture that you won’t find anywhere else.
Climb the Tower of Prosphorion - Pay a few Euros to head inside the 14th-century tower for a bit of history and some mahoosive views of the harbour.
Rent a Boat to Ammouliani - Be your own captain and sail over to the only inhabited island in the region for some delish fresh fish.
Hike the Border Path - Follow the trails along the edge of the monastic state for a walk that is dead peaceful and as scenic as they come.
Shop the Monastic Markets - Grab some olive oil or wine produced on the Holy Mountain for a taste of something truly unique.
Sunset Cocktails by the Harbour - Park yourself at a stylish bar and watch the sun drop behind the Athos peninsula with a cold bevvy.
Visit Ancient Stagira - Take a short trip out of town to see the birthplace of Aristotle and get your fill of ancient ruins.
