From the moment you arrive in Halkidiki, you'll understand why it's the top holiday spot in northern Greece. A paradise of soft sandy seafronts and picturesque towns, this three-fingered peninsula stretches out into the Aegan Sea, providing miles of glorious coastline to explore.
When you're not lazing out by the shore, head inwards to find spectacular scenery and staggering monasteries that will quickly fill up your camera roll. However, the evenings are reserved for soaking up the laid-back Greek lifestyle with plates upon plates of flavourful food.
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Classicists will tell you Halkidiki's unique shape is a result of a battle between Olympian gods and earthly giants, while geologists explain it through tectonic collapse. Whichever you believe, you'll be bowled over by the beauty of this region as you uncover its historical secrets throughout your stay.
While you may be tempted to book a villa holiday on one of the popular Greek islands - think Corfu, Crete or Mykonos - Halkidiki makes an excellent case for staying on the mainland. You can go the traditional tourist route with snorkeling, sailing and beachside shopping all available. However, we'd suggest heading away from the hustle and bustle of the (admittedly stunning) beaches in favour of some incredible historical sights.
Don't be deceived by the picture-perfect postcard views that come out of Halkidiki - there's so much more to this region than its coastline. Those hoping to get their heart rate up can embark on a cycle ride up the slopes of Mount Cholomon, weaving their way in and out of the fir trees with gorgeous views at the top.
For a slower pace of exploration, take a trip to Parthenonas. Found on the Sithonia peninsula, this protected village is made up of pretty stone buildings, flagstone streets and a local museum if you want to learn a little more about its tumultuous past. There's also a free classic film festival in the summer, but if you do miss it, Carnival of Polygyros or Sani Festival are held elsewhere across the region.
However, for a truly traditional Greek village experience, head to Nikiti. Serving as the capital of Sithonia, it's over 700 years old and still retains that quaint 14th century feel, complete with charming stone buildings and ceramic tiles.
Love sampling a bit of supermarket halloumi or fast food gyros? It's time to try the real thing in Halkidiki. The region is covered in family-owned tavernas serving traditional Greek dishes, so you'll never be short of foodie hotspots to sample.
Owing to its coastline position, many menus are filled with fresh fish, prawns and mussels - always go for the catch of the day when available! For something more hearty, we'd suggest kleftiko - a lovingly seasoned, oven-cooked lamb dish served with seasonal vegetables.
Vegetarians will be spoilt for choice when it comes to the array of crisp salads and dairy-based delights on offer, while the classic moussaka can be widely ordered meat-free too. And to satisfy that sweet tooth, try ice cream or Greek yogurt topped with spoon sweet - a thick fruit preserve.
Great for kids: Found in the north east, Aristotle Park allows young ones to roam free across the play equipment while trying out some scientific equipment.
Great for teens: Older kids will love exploring the history of Halkidiki - particularly the Ammon Zeus Temple with its archeological links.
Tipping: It's expected but not required to tip your servers. Some restaurants will round up the bill automatically, so be sure to check before giving extra on top.
The beautiful beaches may be where most tourists congregate, but peel yourself away from the sandy shores and you'll be rewarded with equally stunning views when driving inland. Wherever you're headed, the journey will rival the destination.
While Halkidiki is a peninsula in itself, the area is then divided into three smaller peninsulas, providing you with 300 miles of coastline to explore. You'll find that each one has its own unique character, and though we'd suggest giving them all a visit throughout your stay, it's important to pick the right one for you when planning a villa holiday in Halkidiki.
No matter which you choose, you'll be treated to some of the best beaches and scenery in the country, plus an array of charming towns and villages to explore.
Measuring around one and a half square miles in size, the island of Diaporos is a blink-and-you'll-miss-it spot. That only heightens its hidden gem status, with lucky day-trippers treated to crystal-clear waters and colourful reefs.
The most popular of the three peninsulas, Kassandra is home to most of the top resorts - and, as a result, the best restaurants and shops. Late-nighters will love the vibrant club scene of Kallithea. However, if you prefer a more peaceful atmosphere, head to Hanioti to enjoy its idyllic village square and bustling evening markets.
This easternmost peninsula has no public access, but that doesn't stop boat excursions taking you to see its stunning Byzantine monasteries up close. Head to Ouranoupolis to catch a tour of this monastic republic and have your cameras ready to snap ample shots of the Holy Mountain.
One for the explorers, Sithonia is sprawling with thick pine forests and characterful fishing villages. Whether you're someone who prefers trekking through the undergrowth or tucking into ultra-fresh sea bass, you're sure to enjoy a day spent outdoors here. Don't miss the hidden coves and beautiful bays - once you find them, you'll never want to leave.
British Airways, easyJet and Ryanair all fly into Macedonia Airport, Thessaloniki, from across the UK. The flight time is around 3 hours.
From there, you'll have to either rent a car or catch the KTEL bus (2 euros) to Halkidiki. The drive takes just under an hour.
It's easy to get around by public transport in Halkidiki - especially if you're prioritising the top tourist spots. The central bus stations are found in Polygyros, Neos Marmaras, Nea Moudania and near Macedonia airport.
If you're hoping to widely explore the region, we'd suggest hiring a car. It allows you to freely move from place to place without relying on irregular bus timetables, and the roads are relatively easy to navigate.
Car rentals are available either from the airport or central Halkidiki tourist spots.
The most scenic way to travel, boat excursions permit you access to Halkidiki's tricky-to-reach beaches - which also happen to be some of the most beautiful. Daily excursions are available with local tour providers, while you can also charter your own sailing boat.
If you don't want to deal with the buses but you're also not planning too many day trips, taxi hire is an excellent one-off alternative. They'll get where you're going fast, with some services available to book online, but you'll easily find taxis in the major tourist spots.
Prices are regulated by the Greek government but still can be on the expensive side.
If you choose to hire a car, you'll have to get to grips with driving on the right hand side - stay alert, and be aware of other tourists!
