Ammouliani – Halkidiki's little island facing Mount Athos

Ammouliani is a small island in the Gulf of Mount Athos, on the eastern side of Halkidiki. It covers only about 4–5 sq km, but offers beaches of fine golden sand, rocky coves and charming little harbours. It’s the only inhabited island in Halkidiki. For centuries it belonged to Vatopedi Monastery on Mount Athos, until Greek refugees from the islands of the Sea of Marmara settled here in 1925. Today a few hundred people live here year-round. Ammouliani is ideal if you want peace and quiet – no big hotels or nightlife, just a lovely sea and fish tavernas.

Beaches

Alykes – a long beach with shallow water and sand dunes, one of the best in northern Greece.
Megali Ammos – “Big Sand”, with tavernas and umbrellas.
Agios Georgios – a sheltered cove with crystal-clear water.
Tsasi and Karagatsia – smaller, wilder coves on the south coast.

Most beaches are within walking or cycling distance – the island is tiny.

What to do

Boat trip along Mount Athos – cruises from Ouranoupoli (just across the water) run along the west coast of the Holy Mountain. From the sea you’ll see the monasteries of Dochiariou, Xenophontos, St Panteleimon (the Russian monastery) and Zografou. Only men may set foot on Athos, with a permit (diamonitirion) arranged in advance, but the cruises are open to everyone.
Kayak around the rocky coast and nearby islets.
Dinner at the harbour in the main village – fresh fish, octopus and mussels.
Ouranoupoli – the Byzantine tower and a walk along the shore.

Getting there

By car – from Sofia via Kulata and Thessaloniki, then towards Ierissos and Tripiti (about 420 km, 5 h). The ferry from Tripiti to Ammouliani takes about 15 minutes and runs every half-hour to hour in summer. You can take your car, but you won’t need it on the island.

When to visit

June–September. July and August are busiest and priciest. June and September are ideal – warm sea and calm.

Practical tips

Accommodation is mostly small hotels, studios and campsites. Book early for summer.
The island has few ATMs, so bring cash.
Mosquitoes are common in the evening – bring repellent.