DISCOVER NEW EXPERIENCES
Aristotelia Gi Ikies is a perfect base to explore the surrounding Aristotel’s lands. If you are not in a mood of leaving the hotel just laze away by the pool or on the beach.
These are only some of the places, activities and experiences you can enjoy.
beyond the stay
Follow your mood and enjoy something new every day.
Aristotelia Gi properties are a perfect base to explore the surrounding Aristotele’s lands and wider Halkidiki area. If you are not in a mood of leaving the hotel, just laze away by the pool.
These are only some of the places, activities & experiences you can enjoy.
ancient stagira
Take a morning or evening walk to the hill. Wander around the ‘Home of the man who influenced 2000 years of human history – Aristotle’. You will see the fortification wall – really quite impressive, some foundations of classical houses, the agora, a citadel and the tower remains with its mosaic floor.
Few words about the place:
Ancient city located near Olympiada, on a small, mountainous peninsula called “Liotopi” (the testimonies of antiquity said it was waterfront). The city is known as the birthplace of Aristotle – great philosopher, student of Plato and the tutor of Alexander the Great. Founded in 665 BC by Ionian colonists from Andros. Until the Persian Wars, Stagira was a free, independent and prosperous city. After the Persians it became a member of the Athenian Alliance and allied with the Spartans. Later destroyed and rebuilt by Philip II of Macedon. Archaeological excavations that continue to this day have brought to light important parts of the ancient city and a lot of artifacts were retrieved. Aristotle’s park located in modern Stagira is hosting experimental instruments operating under the natural laws which refer to his writings.
Ancient Stagira on Google Maps
lazy day at the sea – rent a boat
You can be the captain of your boat and explore the nearby waters. Embark on an unforgettable experience on the sea. Pilot your own boat without needing a license… Discover hidden caves, secluded beaches, and the Explore Strimonic Bay and its beautiful beaches stunning landscapes.
Don't forget to visit the island of Kavkanas.
If boating is something you have always wanted to try we will make all the arrangements for you.
Live unforgettable moments in the blue sea!
horse ridding
Experience the beauty of Halkidiki in a whole new way. Horseback rides are perfect for anyone who loves horses and wants to explore the breath-taking nature and the wildlife of the region. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rider, we have the perfect trail ride for you. The instructor will give you introductory horse riding tips to ensure that you feel comfortable and confident before heading out on the trail. Stroll in the forest, feel the magic of the nature, enjoy the freedom where neither age nor experience matters.
A unique experience that definitely will stay unforgettable – let us know to arrange your ride.
loukoumades – cooking lessons
Loukoumades are little fluffy sweet honey balls, deep fried to golden and crispy perfection.
Go beyond written recipes - learn direct from an expert. A quick and easy recipe for a traditional treat, so syrupy and crunchy!
The perfect traditional loukoumades are crispy and golden on the outside and fluffy and airy in the inside. Learn how to create these popular treats dated from the first Olympic Games in 776. Discover the joy of eating Greek honey donuts, drenched in honey and cinnamon accompanied with a drink of your choice.
Wish to give it a try – we will book your lesson
varvara waterfalls - hiking
A fascinating hiking route through the mountain, protected by the European convention Natura 2000.
Between the villages Varvara and Olympiada, one can find two impressive waterfalls deep in the Kipouristra forest - a forest full of alders, lindens and wild hazels. Both the location and the feeling of serenity will make you feel like you have discovered a small paradise. It takes a lovely short walk (5-10 minutes from the point you leave your vehicle) to discover this amazing place. Both the wooden bridge and the marks on the path contribute to the enjoyment of the unique scenery. At some point, a change of direction is needed, depending on which of the two waterfalls is to be approached. It is worth seeing both waterfalls to experience the reinvigorating qualities they offer.
Start point of dirt-road : 40.590249, 23.732512
Parking lot – Start of paths : 40.5990918, 23.7223924
Take the opportunity and visit the Varvara Women’s Association and their the stone showroom in the centre of the village. Noodles kneaded with local organic ingredients, sweets from organic berries, jams, liqueurs, savoury pies and twisted pies with a rich stuffing of mountain greens and sweet milk pies, turned honey pies… are some of the delights you may purchase and for some of them to follow the process of making it.
Varvara Waterfalls on Google Maps
the aristotelian walk – trekking
From the Aristotelian Forest, the sole park of Halkidiki, to the archaeological site of Stageira in Olympiada, this unique route to the famous Aristotelian Mount is an environmental, cultural and historical route through time. The amazing variety of the flora, and stunning panoramic view of Akanthio and the Strimonian bay will take your breath away.
The incredible scents of the Natura 2000 trees and plants will fill your lungs and you can collect your own herbs, the very herbs that Aristotle prescribed to Alexander the Great as ancient cures.
The road will lead you to Alexander the Great’s home town where you will find a stunningly beautiful and historically important archaeological site., Take a stroll through the site to further discover and unravel the history of glorious Macedonia!
The Aristotelian Route is not simply a walking route! It’s a once in a lifetime experience!
Route Length 15km
mount athos
Embark on a unique experience and join the Mount Athos cruise. Admire the breath-taking nature, the mountain, with the overgrown forests and the vivid flora and fauna. Learn about the history of Mount Athos and its monasteries.
Few facts about the place:
Mount Athos, known as the Holy Mountain- is the spiritual capital of the Orthodox Christian world. The Monastic State of the Holy Mountain is known to be the main carrier of Orthodox Christianity and holds spiritual glory and great history. It is a religious community with 1.000 years old monasteries, cells in caves or between the rocks, towers, domes, belfries, chants, etc. It is listed in UNESCO’s World Heritage Monuments. Mount Athos is a self-governed territory of the Greek state, forbidden for women to enter by any means or stay anywhere in the monastic state. The monks follow the old Julian calendar and the Byzantine time. Monasteries are closed by sunset and open again at sunrise.
nearby beaches worth visiting
Proti Amoudia (Ammos) beach– over 200m beach with white sand and deep waters surrounded with pine trees. (organized)
Sikia Beach - small beach with thick sand surrounded with a pine trees. Medium depth. Not organized
Chrysi Akti– a long beach with fine sand and shallow waters. (organized)
Kefalas Beach – small beach beneath the rocks of Ancient Stagira with medium deep waters. Not organized
Vina Beach (organized) – quite long beach, one of the largest in the area with pine trees on the back and shallow waters in front.
Gourgourou Beach – quite long beach with fine sand and shallow waters (organized)
Zougla Beach - small and narrow beach with shallow waters (not organized)