A forest trail on the Byzantine Walk in Ouranoupoli leads to a water collection point with a low, 35-metre-long masonry gallery. Alongside this specific architectural feature, the beaches on the northern side and the history of the Prosforio Tower shape the area. Those planning a stay can choose between beach time, museum history, an archaeological site and a trail with an architectural destination.
Beaches on the northern side
The beaches stretch along the northern side of Ouranoupoli. Some sections have sun umbrellas and loungers and offer visitor facilities; this does not apply to the entire coastline. Facilities may vary by season. If particular amenities are important to you, check the specific section and travel dates. This helps you plan beach time without assuming that all sections have the same facilities.
The Prosforio Tower and its history
The Prosforio Tower has both a museum and a biographical side. It has served as a museum since 2005, displaying finds from the surrounding area and the history of the building itself. The antiquities on display include objects from pre-Christian and Christian Chalkidiki. A separate section is dedicated to Sydney and Joice Loch. Both lived in the tower in the 20th century and were socially active in support of the residents of Ouranoupoli who had fled Asia Minor. Alongside finds and architectural history, the dedicated section also brings their social commitment to the residents into focus.
Zygos: Monastic history and the site
In the 11th century, Zygos was one of the most important monasteries of Athos. The monastery was later abandoned, presumably as a result of pirate raids. The uncertainty about the cause is part of the historical context: pirate raids are considered a likely reason, not a confirmed explanation. According to the municipality, the archaeological site lies at the natural transition to the monastic community of Athos and can be reached on foot from Ouranoupoli. If you are planning to walk there, check the trail conditions in advance. This allows you to consider the monastery’s former importance and the description of the site as two distinct aspects of a visit.
A forest trail on the Byzantine Walk
The Byzantine Walk complements the historical themes with a specific trail through the forest. One of its forest trails leads to a water collection point with a low, 35-metre-long masonry gallery. If you are interested in built features as well as forest scenery, this water collection point offers a distinctive point of interest. Check the current trail conditions before your visit.
The boat service to Dafni
Boats carrying male pilgrims depart from the small harbour by the Prosforio Tower for the port of Dafni on Athos. A Diamonitirio, a special permit available from the pilgrims’ office, is required. This service is therefore not a general boat tour for visitors to the area, but is restricted to pilgrims who have the required permit. Take this restriction into account when planning your trip.
Discover more destinations: Paliouri, Sani, Paradisos, Moles Kalives, Polygyros, Kassandra, Ammoulliani, Olimpiada.
Back to the main travel guide: Chalkidiki.
