Page 176 - ATHENS RIVIERA JOURNAL 2022

CHAL KIDIKI

What Not to Miss in Chalkidiki & Thessaloniki

Visiting the Possidi Cape
Possidi Cape has its own type of magic for a number of reasons:
firstly because of the French lighthouse, built in 1864 which
joined the domestic lighthouse network after the Balkan wars,
secondly, because you’re guaranteed to come across an amateur
fisherman waiting patiently for a catch and thirdly, due to the fact
that it boasts two of the most beautiful beaches on the west coast
of Kassandra.

Snorkelling on the island of Kelifos
Discover underwater caves created by steep cliffs. Where? Kelifos,
a favourite destination for anyone who loves snorkelling and
diving and an island that can be visited located off the mainland.
Many diving centers organize their lessons there; in fact, the entire
island is available for diving, offering over 10 specific diving spots.
Kelifos itself is 1 small in size, approximately one square kilometre,
filled with pine trees, wildlife and steep cliffs and is located in the
Toroneos Gulf, between Kassandra and Sithonia, and is inhabited
by goats and the seagulls. Access to the island is only by sea, either
by renting a boat yourself or via an organized excursion from Nea
Marmara or Kassandra.

Proximity to nature
Lake Mavrobara or ‘Turtle Lake’, known for the rare species of
water turtle that inhabits it is a place of particular ecological
importance. This small lake is 3 kilometers west of the Polychroni,
situated in a large forest area full of pine trees. The lake is a refuge
for two rare species of European water turtles (Emys Orbicularis
and Mauremys Caspica), which are facing the risk of extinction.
Small benches strategically positioned in the area allow visitors to
enjoy the area in comfort. In 2019, the Mavrobara trail (an easy,
3.2km circular route) was redesigned, cleaned and marked and is SHUTTERSTOCK
particularly popular with families with children.

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