Sani

Sani lies on the north-western tip of Kassandra, the first "leg" of Halkidiki, just 70 kilometres (about one hour) from Thessaloniki and 50 minutes from "Makedonia" Airport. It is one of the county's most cosmopolitan yet natural destinations, where a dense pine forest runs down to the shore and meets long, golden beaches with shallow, turquoise waters. On clear days the view from the beach stretches across the Aegean all the way to Mount Olympus.

What Sani is known for

Sani is defined by the Byzantine tower of Stavronikita, an 11th-century fort built by monks of Mount Athos on a low hill beside the sea, and today the area's landmark. Around the tower spreads the Blue Flag beach of Sani, one of the most popular and well-organised shores in Kassandra. The area is also famous for the Sani Marina, with its elegant piazza, boutiques and fine-dining restaurants, and for the important Sani wetland: a refuge for more than 200 bird species — almost half of all bird species in Greece — including flamingos.

Activities and sights

In Sani you can enjoy:

• The beaches of Sani Beach and Bousoulas, ideal for families thanks to their shallow waters.
• The Stavronikita tower at sunset, with panoramic views over the Thermaic Gulf.
• The bird-watching trails of the wetland, with tours led by expert eco-guides.
• The Marina for strolling, shopping, water sports and boat excursions.
• The Sani Festival (June–September), with concerts by international artists on the tower's hill.

Best time to visit

The ideal season runs from May to September, peaking in July and August when the Sani Festival is in full swing. For quiet and better prices choose June or September, while birdwatchers will also appreciate spring at the wetland. Given the demand, booking accommodation early is recommended, especially on weeks with scheduled concerts.