Welcome!
Pilgrimage Guide MOUNT ATHOS AREA HALKIDIKI MOUNT ATHOS AREA ORGANISATION
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Pilgrimage Guide
Contents
Who we are
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Where we are
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Around two mountains and 300km of coast line
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Pilgrimage routes around Mount Athos (7 days)
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Pilgrimage routes around two mountains: Athos & Aristotelian (9 days)
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Monastic items & jewels
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The cruise around Mount Athos
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Visit Mount Athos
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Where to stay
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Epilogue
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We are the people who, as members of one of the strongest Greek tourism bodies, struggle daily to put the Mount Athos Area on the global tourism map, as a multifaceted holiday destination. Indeed, the Mount Athos Area Tourism Organisation, which currently comprises 146 member companies, is a sensation in terms of its synergies, understanding, professionalism, organisation, vision, hard work, planning and above all in achieving results. In just a few years, we have managed to promote the Athos area peninsula as one of the most popular Greek destinations, opening up dozens of new tourism markets and enhancing existing ones. The Athos area peninsula is becoming a Mediterranean holiday destination, offering dozens of forms of modern tourism and excellent infrastructure”, representatives of the body's 146 member companies state proudly. “This is thanks to collective action”, its members continue “since there is unified planning, disciplined coordination, unprecedented organisation and faithful compliance - implementation of the annual plan of activities prepared every October”.
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The guide you are holding is a small sample of our work and focuses on establishing the destination as a must-see pilgrimage site, as its proximity to Mount Athos the largest living religious monument in the world renders us all jointly responsible for promoting its thematics and quality in markets throughout the world!
MOUNT ATHOS AREA ORGANISATION
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EGNATIA ODOS E90
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M ATHENS T MACEDONIA - IPIROS
LAKE KORONIA
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APOLLONIA
LAGADIKIA
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THESSALONIKI
LAKE VOLVI
PERISTERONA
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MADYTOS
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PILEA MELISOURGOS
PANORAMA
THERMI
GULF OF THERMAIKOS A D
AGIA TRIADA
MARATHOUSA
N. REDESTOS B
DOUMBIA GEROPLATANOS
N. RYSIO
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KARDIA
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N. MICHANIONA
GALATISTA
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AG. PRODROMOS
HOLOMONTAS
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PALEOKASTRO
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EPANOMI
GALATISTA TOWER
LAKKOMA
POTAMOS
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PALEOCHORA AG. ANASTASIA
VASILIKA
TAXIARCHIS
PETRALONA CAVE
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POLYGYROS
VRASTAM
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NEA GONIA MARIANON CASTLE
N. IRAKLEIA
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NEA TRIGLIA KALYVES
OLYNTHOS N. PLAGIA
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ORMYLIA GERAKINI PSAKOUDIA
VATOP
N. FLOGITA
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AGIOS MAMAS
N MOUDANIA
N. POTIDEA
GULF OF THERMAIKOS
GULF OF TORON N. FOKEA
SANI KALITHEA
KASSANDRA SIVIRI
KRIOPIGI
FOURKA
POLYC
POSIDI NEA SKIONI
MAP OF MOUNT ATHOS AREA 8
Routes to Mount Athos Area
Map Symbols
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OLYMPIADA ANCIENT STAGEIRA
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VARVARA STANOS
C. MARMARI
STAGEIRA
GULF OF STRYMONIKOS
STRATONIKI
NEOCHORI
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STRATONI C. ELEFTHEROU
PALEOCHORI
EA NEPOSI CASTLE B B
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GULF OF IERISSOS C. ARAPIS
MEGALI PANAGIA
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GOMATI
IERISSOS
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AG. IOANNIS
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ESFIGMENOU M.
PIRGADIKIA AMMOULIANI
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METAGITSI
C. ARKOUDAS
HELANDARIOU M.
OURANOUPOLI
SALONIKIOU
VATOPEDION
ΜΕΤΟHΙ CHROMITSA ZOGRAFOU M.
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AGIOU DIMITRIOU M.
KASTAMONITOU M.
PANTOKRATOROS M. PR. ILIA M.
DOCHEARIOU M.
PEDIO
XENOFONTOS M.
AGIOS NIKOLAOS METAMORFOSI NIKITI D
STRAVONIKITA M.
KOUTLOUMOUSIOU M. IVIRON M.
AG. PANTELEIMONOS M.
ORMOS PANAGIAS
XIROPOTAMOU M.
FILOTHEOU M.
DIAPOROS ISLAND
KARAKALOU M.
C. XIFARAS
VOURVOUROU
SIMONOS PETRAS M.
NEOS
GULF OF SIGITIKOS (MOUNT ATHOS)
MEG. LAVRAS M.
OSIOU GRIGORIOU M. DIONYSSIOU M. AGIOU PAVLOU M. AG. ANNIS M.
SARTI N. MARMARAS
TIM. PRODROMOU M. MEG. LAVRAS M.
AG. TRIADOS M. CA. AKRATHOS
SITHONIA
ATHOS
CHRONO HANIOTI PEFKOCHORI PORTO KOUFO
MOUNT ATHOS AREA ORGANISATION
Protected Areas Νatura European Network
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Around two mountains and 300km of coast line Day 1 / Arrival Arrival in Thessaloniki / City Tour and Overnight stay Day 2 / To Arnea After breakfast, we will depart for the mountainous area of Arnea, the most traditional town of Halkidiki. Arnea is famous for its Macedonian architecture, so we will begin our tour with a walk through the traditional city squares and then visit the “Metropolitan Church of Agios Stefanos”, which is the only religious monument in Greece where the faithful can attend services while admiring the archaeological remains just below their feet, as a glass floor separates the church from the archaeological site. We will then visit the folklore museum and the weaving museum and try rare varieties of organic honey. After this, we will depart for the slopes of Mount Cholomontas, where we will visit famous chapels, such as those of “Agios Modestos” and “Agios Christoforos”. In the afternoon, we will lunch at the “traditional restaurant Bakatsianos” in the Grove of Agia Paraskevi, which belongs to the See, and we will then try organic wines at “Domaine Claudia Papayianni”. Overnight stay at Arnea Day 3 / On the way to Ouranoupolis After breakfast, we will depart for Palaiochori to visit the historic stone church “Pammegiston Taxiarchon”. We will also enjoy a traditional “kerasma” at the “Monastic Guest quarter of Panagia-Joy for the sad ones”, which is one of the most beautiful monastic guest quarters. We will be guided there and then we will visit the Grove of Aristotle, the only theme park of Halkidiki, surrounded by magnificent chapels. We will lunch at “Xenia” local restaurant, with the amazing view at the athonite peninsula. In the afternoon we will depart for the Holy Shrine of Megali Panagia, high on the mountain of Kakkavos, where we will attend the service. We will admire the monastery’s temple and we will kneel before the miraculous image of the Virgin Mary. Later on will go to Ouranoupolis to overnight there. After the check in we will dine at “Lemoniadis” fish restaurant. We will taste delicious Mount Athos recipes such us “kakavia”, “fish with potatoes and lemon” (lemonato), etc.
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Around two mountains and 300km of coast line
MOUNT ATHOS AREA ORGANISATION 11
Day 4 / Around Mount Athos After breakfast, we will embark one of the Athos Sea Cruises vessels and sail along the coast of Mount Athos. We will see all the monasteries of the West bank, visit their relics and admire monastic architecture. In the afternoon, we will lunch at the “Athos Bar Restaurant”, one of the most renowned and award-winning restaurants in Greece, where we will enjoy an authentic monastic menu and then visit the Zigou Monastery and the land borders of Mount Athos. The currently excavated Zigou monastery is the only Athonite monastery that can be visited by women, as it is situated just a few metres from the border of the monastic state! Afterwards, we will visit the area of Ouranoupoli. We will walk around the Prosforiou Tower, visit the shops in the village where you can buy authentic products of Athos, taste Athonite wines and olive oil, and will then see how the monks of Mount Athos create Byzantine icons. Late in the afternoon, we will return to the hotel. Day 5 / Pilgrimage from the island of Ammouliani to Nea Roda After breakfast, we will visit the beautiful island of Ammouliani and its famous beaches. We will visit the church of Agios Nikolaos and admire the Arsanas monastery, bowing before the relics of the Holy Fathers. We will go on an excellent cruise around the island and lunch at the Megali Ammos fish restaurant, directly opposite Mount Athos, enjoying the commanding, breathtaking view! In the afternoon, we will depart for the area of Nea Roda, where we will visit the Church of the Virgin with its imposing Russian temple and kneel before the image of Agios Nikolaos - the patron saint of seafarers - at the namesake chapel in the picturesque harbour of the village. We will enjoy our coffee on the village beach and will then depart for the hotel. Day 6 / In the footsteps of Aristotle and Alexander the Great After breakfast, we will walk in the excellent trail from Stratoni to Agios Nikolas of the mountain, amazed by the views and its natural beauty! We will then visit ancient Stagira, the birthplace of the philosopher Aristotle teacher of Alexander the Great. We will walk around the archaeological finds and the Byzantine church located in the site, we will see the plants and herbs of the Aristotelian Mountain, which is protected by the European Convention Natura 2000 and we will dine in Olympiada, where we will enjoy an authentic ancient Greek menu at the restaurant Akroyali, listening to authentic ancient Greek dialogues! Overnight stay at Olympiada. Day 7 / Departure Day Departure for Thessaloniki’s MACEDONIA Airport. 12
Around two mountains and 300km of coast line
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5 Pilgrimage routes around Mount Athos (7 days) Day 1 / Arrival Arrival in Thessaloniki / Departure for the Mount Athos Area (Ouranoupolis) / Overnight stay Day 2 Breakfast at the hotel. Today we will visit the area around Ouranoupolis. We will visit the Zygou Monastery and the land borders of Mount Athos. The currently excavated Zygou monastery is the only Athonite monastery that can be visited by women, as it is situated just a few metres from the border of the monastic state! After the visit the men will visit vineyards on Mount Athos, on the slopes around the Chromitsa dependency of the Monastery of Agios Panteleimon, where organic vines are cultivated in an area of approximately one square kilometre at an altitude of 250 metres. They will tour the blessed vineyards, try the fragrant wine and learn in detail about the production process. Women will follow a special “wandering & eating” program at Ouranoupolis, where they would wander between byzantine monuments and shops that offer monastic products, tasting wine, honey, oil, etc. – which monks have produced in Mount Athos especially for you! In the afternoon (when the men return), we will lunch at the “Athos Bar restaurant”, one of the most renowned and award-winning restaurants in Greece, where we will enjoy an authentic monastic menu. Late in the afternoon we will return to the hotel. Day 3 After breakfast, the men will head to the port of Ouranoupoli and take the ferry to the port of Dafni on Mount Athos, after having taken all the necessary steps for the issue of visit permits (for their issuance, consult the website www.mountathosarea.org). They will visit the holy seat of St. Eustathius in Mylopotamos of the Monastery of Agia Lavra and watch the production process of local wines at the monastery’s winery. After lunch on Mount Athos, they will visit the monasteries near Mylopotamos to experience the Athonite culture and the emotional uplift and spirituality offered by this trip. The women will see all the monasteries on the western side from aboard the cruise ship of “Athos Sea Cruises”. Then they will visit by boat the beautiful island of Ammouliani and its famous beaches. They will lunch at the Megali Ammos fish restaurant, directly opposite Mount Athos, enjoying the commanding, breathtaking view! After it they will visit the church of Agios Nikolaos and admire the Arsanas monastery, bowing before the relics of the Holy Fathers. The men will stay in Mount Athos and the women will return to the hotel. 14
5 Pilgrimage routes around Mount Athos (7 days)
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Day 4 Breakfast Women will go to Ierissos, where, at the Aristotle Cultural Centre, they will watch the 3D film “Life on Mount Athos”, leaving them with a feeling of devoutness, serenity and deep religiosity. Meanwhile men will return at 14.00 Both men and women will lunch at “Lemoniadis fish restaurant” Free afternoon for relax Dinner at the hotel Day 5 After breakfast, we will depart for the “Holy Shrine of Megali Panagia”, high on the mountain of Kakkavos, where we will attend the service. We will admire the monastery’s temple, will kneel before the miraculous image of the Virgin Mary. After that, we will depart for Palaiochori to visit the historic stone church “Pammegiston Taxiarchon”. We will also enjoy a traditional “kerasma” at the “Monastic Guest quarter of Panagia-Joy for the sad ones”, which is one of the most beautiful monastic guest quarters. We will be guided there and then we will visit the Grove of Aristotle, the only theme park of Halkidiki, surrounded by magnificent chapels. We will then visit ancient Stagira, the birthplace of the philosopher Aristotle teacher of Alexander the Great. We will walk around the archaeological finds and the Byzantine church located in the site, we will see the plants and herbs of the Aristotelian Mountain, which is protected by the European Convention Natura 2000 and we will dine in Olympiada, where we will enjoy an authentic ancient Greek menu at the “restaurant Akroyali”, listening to authentic ancient Greek dialogues! Late in the afternoon, we will return to the hotel. Day 6 After breakfast, we will depart for the mountainous area of Arnea, the most traditional town of Halkidiki. Arnea is famous for its Macedonian architecture, so we will begin our tour with a walk through the traditional city quarters and then visit the Metropolitan Church of Agios Stefanos, which is the only religious monument in Greece where the faithful can attend services while admiring the archaeological remains just below their feet, as a glass floor separates the church from the archaeological site. We will then visit the folklore museum and the weaving museum and try rare varieties of organic honey. After this, we will depart for the slopes of Mount Cholomontas, where we will visit famous chapels, such as those of Agios Modestos and Agios Christoforos. At noon, we will lunch at the “traditional restaurant Bakatsianos” in the Grove of Agia Paraskevi, which belongs to the See, and we will then try organic wines at Domaine Claudia Papayianni and local cheeses at the Karagiannis cheese factory. We will head to the Thessaloniki hotel, where we will stay in the late afternoon, full of unforgettable experiences and memories! Day 7 Departure day. 16
5 Pilgrimage routes around Mount Athos (7 days)
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Pilgrimage routes around two mountains Athos & Aristotelian (9 days) Day 1 / Arrival Arrival in Thessaloniki / Departure for the Mount Athos Area (Ouranoupolis) / Overnight stay Day 2 Bowing before the mountain of Arnea* *Seat of the See of Ierissos, Athos & Ardameri After breakfast, we will depart for the Mount Athos Area and visit the mountainous area of Arnea, the most traditional town of Halkidiki. Arnea is famous for its Macedonian architecture, so we will begin our tour with a walk through the traditional city quarters and then visit the Metropolitan Church of Agios Stefanos, which is the only religious monument in Greece where the faithful can attend services while admiring the archaeological remains just below their feet, as a glass floor separates the church from the archaeological site. We will then visit the folklore museum and the weaving museum and try rare varieties of organic honey. After this, we will depart for the slopes of Mount Cholomontas, where we will visit famous chapels, such as those of Agios Modestos and Agios Christoforos. At noon, we will lunch at the “traditional restaurant Bakatsianos” in the Grove of Agia Paraskevi, which belongs to the See, and we will then try organic wines at Domaine Claudia Papayianni and local cheeses at the Karagiannis cheese factory. We will head to the hotel, where we will stay in the late afternoon, full of unforgettable experiences and memories! Day 3 In the footsteps of Aristotle and Alexander the Great After breakfast, we will visit the Grove of Aristotle, the only theme park of Halkidiki, surrounded by magnificent chapels. Then, we will walk in the excellent trail from Stratoni to Agios Nikolas of the mountain, amazed by the views and its natural beauty! We will then visit ancient Stagira, the birthplace of the philosopher Aristotle teacher of Alexander the Great. We will walk around the archaeological finds and the Byzantine church located in the site, we will see the plants and herbs of the Aristotelian Mountain, which is protected by the European Convention Natura 2000 and we will dine in Olympiada, where we will enjoy an authentic ancient Greek menu at the “restaurant Akroyali”, listening to authentic ancient Greek dialogues! Late in the afternoon, we will return to the hotel.
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Pilgrimage routes around two mountains
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Day 4 Mount Athos After breakfast, the men will visit vineyards on Mount Athos, on the slopes around the Chromitsa dependency of the Monastery of Agios Panteleimon, where organic vines are cultivated in an area of approximately one square kilometre at an altitude of 250 metres. They will tour the blessed vineyards, try the fragrant wine and learn in detail about the production process. At noon (when they return), we will lunch at the “Athos Bar Restaurant”, one of the most renowned and award-winning restaurants in Greece, where we will enjoy an authentic monastic menu and then visit the Zygou Monastery and the land borders of Mount Athos. The currently excavated Zygou monastery is the only Athonite monastery that can be visited by women, as it is situated just a few metres from the border of the monastic state! Late in the afternoon, we will return to the hotel. Day 5 Mount Athos After breakfast, the men will head to the port of Ouranoupoli and take the ferry to the port of Dafni on Mount Athos, after having taken all the necessary steps for the issue of visit permits (for their issuance, consult the website www.mountathosarea.org). They will visit the holy seat of St. Eustathius in Mylopotamos of the Monastery of Agia Lavra and watch the production process of local wines at the monastery’s winery. After lunch on Mount Athos, they will visit the monasteries near Mylopotamos to experience the Athonite culture and the emotional uplift and spirituality offered by this trip. In the evening, they will return to the hotel. The women will see all the monasteries on the western side from aboard the cruise ship of Athos Sea Cruises and will then visit the area of Ouranoupoli, will walk around Prosforios Tower and will visit the shops in the village, where they can obtain authentic Mount Athos products, will try local wine and oil, and will then see how the monks of Mount Athos create Byzantine icons. In the afternoon, they will go to Ierissos, where, at the Aristotle Cultural Centre, they will watch the 3D film “Life on Mount Athos”, leaving them with a feeling of devoutness, serenity and deep religiosity. They will dine at the “restaurant Gevsis”, where they will be offered an organic menu of the Athonite countryside, with farm produce, and will attend a cookery class to see how to make bread and the traditional Arnea pie with feta cheese! Later, they will return to the hotel. Day 6 Pilgrimage from the island of Ammouliani to Nea Roda After breakfast, we will visit the beautiful island of Ammouliani and its famous beaches. We will visit the church of Agios Nikolaos and admire the Arsanas monastery, bowing before the relics of the Holy Fathers. 20
Pilgrimage routes around two mountains We will go on an excellent cruise around the island and lunch at the “Megali Ammos fish restaurant”, directly opposite Mount Athos, enjoying the commanding, breathtaking view! In the afternoon, we will depart for the area of Nea Roda, where we will visit the Church of the Virgin with its imposing Russian temple and kneel before the image of Agios Nikolaos - the patron saint of seafarers - at the namesake chapel in the picturesque harbour of the village. We will enjoy our coffee on the village beach and will then depart for the hotel. Day 8 At the pilgrimage destinations of the countryside After breakfast, we will depart for the “Holy Shrine of Megali Panagia”, high on the mountain of Kakkavos, where we will attend the service. We will admire the monastery’s temple, will kneel before the miraculous image of the Virgin Mary. After that, we will depart for Palaiochori to visit the historic stone church “Pammegiston Taxiarchon”. We will also enjoy a traditional “kerasma” at the “Monastic Guest quarter of Panagia-Joy for the sad ones”, which is one of the most beautiful monastic guest quarters. We will dine at the “traditional restaurant Bakatsianos” in Arnea and we will depart for Thessaloniki. Day 9 Departure for Thessaloniki’s MACEDONIA Airport.
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Monastic items & jewels Have you ever thought that a 4-day visit to the Mount Athos Area (Halkidiki) can be combined with thematic holidays and “monastic� explorations in the famous shops of Ouranoupoli, where you can find all the blessed products made by the monks of Mount Athos (oil, honey, wine, olives, herbs, etc.)? Did you know that there you will also find Athonite cosmetics, made by the monks using pure raw materials from the sacred Mount Athos, as well as exquisite Byzantine-style jewellery? The following program is just a proposal. You can turn it into an experience! Day 1 Arrival in the area of Ouranoupoli. Choose one of the hotels in the following list for your stay. Lunch at the hotel / Relaxation In the afternoon, you can follow the eating & wandering program in Ouranoupoli, first visiting the famous Antonakis Bio stores, where you can try wines and organic products from Mount Athos. You can also tour the wonderful world of Byzantine icons and jewellery, while Giannis Antonakis, of the famous Antonakis Gallery, will show you how the icons of Mount Athos are made and conserved. You can then tour Tamvakis Nature, where you can try traditional products and wine from Mount Athos. There follows a tour of the well-know elegant Athos Gallery store, which features valuable Byzantine icons and ornate jewellery. In the evening, you can enjoy an authentic Athonite dinner in the wonderful Lemoniadis restaurant. Day 2 After breakfast, you can head to the port of Ouranoupoli, from where you will get one of the ships of Athos Sea Cruise to sail around Mount Athos. You will see all the monasteries of its western shore and admire its wonderful Byzantine architecture. At noon, you will enjoy lunch at the award-winning famous Athos Bar Restaurant. Ask for Mediterranean seafood dishes, enjoy authentic local cuisine and buy wonderful gifts from its cellar. After taking a siesta and enjoying an afternoon coffee at one of the local hotels, you will set off for your evening tour of the Zygou Monastery and the land borders of Mount Athos. You will then visit Chrisostomakis Bio for wine tasting and to try monastic products. You will learn about the soaps and medicinal oils made by the monks of Mount Athos, using plants and herbs from the Holy Mount and buy various products at very affordable prices. 22
Monastic items & jewels
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Later, you will visit Maria’s Art, on the main square of the village, where you will learn how the various types of Athos incense are made. Your afternoon visits will end at Monoxilitis, where you can try wines from the Monastery of Agios Pavlos, while the owner, Statha, will talk to you about the use of the organic herbs of Mount Athos in making monastic soaps and cosmetics. In the evening, enjoy a glass of beer or local wine at Athos Antonakis Bio on the main seaside street. Day 3 After enjoying your breakfast, you will visit the Tower of Prosforios, on the central square of Ouranoupoli, which operates as a museum hosting local archaeological findings and the room of the benefactress of Ouranoupoli, Ms Loch, just as she left it... You will then visit the Icons Mount Athos Tradition, where the owner, Ioanna, will take you on a journey of the world of authentic Athonite icons. Her interesting information and kindness will amaze you. This will be followed by a visit to Notis Gallery, where the jeweller owner, Effrosyni, will show you how she creates and manufactures exquisite jewellery, combining the local tradition with modern trends in jewellery making. You will end your morning walk with a visit to BYZANTINO, where its owner, Socrates, will take you on a unique journey into the solemn world of authentic Byzantine icons. You will then go to Ammouliani for your lunchtime ouzo and visit the fish restaurant Megali Ammos. Get yourself go in the hands of Giota, who works her culinary magic to prepare delicious fresh seafood delicacies for you and will treat you to her local raki at the beginning and to home-made basbousa (revani) from Asia Minor for dessert. After enjoying swimming and sunbathing on the white, much-photographed sandy beach, you will go to the island’s port and visit the Proikonissos store, where the owner, Katy, will offer you home-made liqueurs and will introduce you to the wonderful world of organic Athonite products. Before leaving the island, visit the Folklore Museum and the Church of Agios Nikolaos. You will be surprised by its beauty! Day 4 Departure!
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Monastic items & jewels
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The cruise around Mount Athos This excellent thematic trip takes you on a journey into the past, on a tour of the architecture and lifestyle of Byzantium. All the monasteries on the western shore of Mount Athos magically appear one after the other, alternating with a natural landscape of unimaginable beauty, with bold changes between dark green and endless blue, as Mount Athos too is protected by the Natura 2000 European Convention. The peninsula is inhabited only by monks (2,200 monks) and has twenty (20) monasteries of Byzantine architecture, twelve (12) cloisters and eight hundred (800) cells. Each year, about one million (1,000,000) visitors admire the cradle of Orthodoxy, which has been living according to the rules of life and religiosity of the Byzantines for more than 1,000 years. Include this cruise along the monastic state in your holiday program and enjoy a unique tourist experience, which is part of a global religious and cultural uniqueness: Mount Athos!
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The cruise around Mount Athos
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Visit Mount Athos Experience a unique religious experience visiting Mt Athos, which is a selfgoverned monastic state (country within a country), that automatically makes the destination a pilgrimage of world importance.The peninsula has 2.200 monks and 20 monasteries of Byzantine architecture, as well as 12 cloisters and 800 cells. Every year a million visitors marvel at the cradle of Orthodox Christianity which for over a thousand years lives under the rules of byzantine times. Mt Athos is a large museum of byzantine and post-byzantine art. Murals, rich libraries, mosaics, priceless artworks, functional utensils and relics are being kept in the monasteries and make your visit a one-of-a-kind religious experience. Around the area there are numerous religious monuments that attract anually thousands of visitors. Visting Mt Athos is only allowed to men, according to the rules of the monastic state (Avaton). To visit Mt Athos, you have to plan in advance the exact date of entrance. Afterwards you have to contact the Office of Mt Athos Pilgrims (Egnatia 109 – Nedelkou Building – 54635 Thessaloniki, tel. 0030 2310252575, fax +30 2310222424, e-mail: piligrimsbureau@c-lab.gr). You will provide the following: Name, father name, date of birth, ID or passport number, date of issue and issuing autority, and after your stay has been issued, the monasteries of your choice will be contacted with regards to your stay. You also have to contact Mt Athos Lines (tel. +30 2377021041) to book a seat on the ship. Only 110 visitors (100 greeks and 10 foreigners) are allowed daily. On the day of your departure, you have to pick up your admittance of stay from the Office of Mt Athos Pilgrims in Ouranoupolis (with the showing of an ID or passport and 35 euros), and also pick up your ship ticket from Mt Athos Lines. Departure from Ouranoupolis for the port of Daphni is at 9:45 daily. The ship arrives at Daphni at around 12 noon. From there, you can take the bus to Karies, the capital of Mt Athos, and then follow your schedule by car. An alternate way is to take the ship from the port of Daphni for the southwestern part of the peninsula (Simonos Petra, Grigoriou, Dionisiou, Ag. Pavlou and skiti Ag Annis). You can also travel via small buses that belong to the Office of Mt Athos cars in Karies (tel. +30 2377023266, fax +30 2377023879). If you wish to visit directly the monasteries of the south, you can depart Ouranoupolis at 6:30, via ship Agia Anna, after you let the Mt Athos Pilgrims know in advancem so that your admittance of stay can be given to the ship’s captain, who will then give it to you.Also, pilgrims with a special admittance of stay (invitation), can only stay in the monastery which invited them. Cars and motorcycles are forbidden.
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Visit Mount Athos
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Name
Beds Address
Telephone Numbers
***** (small luxury hotels of the world) Eagles Palace Resort & Spa
350 63075 Ouranoupoli
+30 2377031047-8, 31101-4 Head Office: +302310269421-9 Athens Office: +302103613059
Avaton Luxury Villas
100 63075 Komitsa Bay
+30 6932390252
Ayia Marina Suites
45 63075 Ouranoupoli
+30 23770 71271
*****
Alexandros Palace Hotel & Suites
720 63075 Ouranoupoli
+30 2377031424, 31402, +302310328860
606 63075 Ouranoupoli
+30 2377071012
Athos Villas
48 63075 Akti Komitsa
+30 2394041813
Theoxenia
314 63075 Ouranoupoli
+30 2377071060
**** Aristoteles Holidays Resort & Spa
*** Ammouliani
52 63075 Ammouliani
+30 2377051297, 51120
Skites
54 63075 Ouranoupoli
+30 2377071140, 71141
Filoxenia
46 63075 Ouranoupoli
+30 2377071158, 71640
Germany
31 57014 Olympiada
+30 2376051255, 51362
Liotopi
33 57014 Olympiada
+30 2376051257, 51361, 51255, 51362
Park Hotel
18 63074 Paleochori
+30 2372041163
Sunrise
89 63075 Ammouliani
+30 2377051273
Theopisti
25 63075 Ouranoupoli
+30 2377071232, 71316
Hotel Alexandra
17 63075 Nea Roda
+30 2377031111
Thalassa
20 63075 Ammouliani
+30 2377051098
Xenios Zeus
40 63075 Ouranoupoli
+30 2377071274
**
*
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Where to stay Fax
Website
+30 2377031383
info@eaglespalace.gr
www.eaglespalace.gr
reservations@avatonresort.gr
www.avatonresort.gr
sales@ayiamarinasuites.com
www.ayiamarinasuites.com
+302377031100, +302310328861
alexh@mail.otenet.gr
www.alexandros-hotels.gr
+30 2377024000
info@aristoteles.gr
www.aristoteles.gr
+30 2394041813
bookings@athos-villas.gr
www.athos-villas.gr
+30 2377071079
theoxenia@theoxenia.gr
www.theoxenia.gr
+30 2377075130
info@hotelammouliani.gr
www.hotelammouliani.gr
+30 2377071132
info@skites.gr
www.skites.gr
filoxenia.r@gmail.com
www.filoxenia-r.gr, www.hotel-filoxenia.com
+30 2376051255
hotel.liotopi@gmail.com
www.Halkidiki.de, www.Halkidiki-guenstig.de, www.halkidiki-hotels.gr, www.Halkidiki.co.uk
+30 2376051255
hotel.liotopi@gmail.com
www.Halkidiki.de, www.Halkidiki-guenstig.de, www.halkidiki-hotels.gr, www.Halkidiki.co.uk
info@hotelparkhalkidiki.gr
www.hotelparkhalkidiki.gr
+30 2377051174
info@sunrise-ammouliani.gr
www.sunrise-ammouliani.gr
+30 2377071042
theopistihotel@yahoo.gr
+30 2377031141
info@alexandrahotel.gr
+30 2377051344
thalassahotel@hotmail.com
+30 2377071185
zeus@ouranoupoli.com
www.hotel-Alexandra.roomstorent.info
www.ouranoupoli.com/zeus MOUNT ATHOS AREA ORGANISATION 31
Name
Beds Address
Telephone Numbers
Luxury Appartments Villa Armyra
9 63075 Ouranoupoli
+30 2377071186
Villa Doris Sea
8 63075 Nea Roda
+30 6946068630
Appartments Aristidis Rooms
12 63082 Stratoni
+30 23760 22376
Copa Cabbana
7 63075 Nea Roda
+30 6946620138
Chrisos Ilios
8 63082 Stratoni
+30 6979721634
Giota Studios
10 63075 Ammouliani
+30 2377051335
Emmeleia Accommodation
8 63075 Ouranoupoli
+30 2377071255
Maria’s House
4 63075 Ammouliani
+30 6977403913
Melydron
12 63075 Nea Roda
+30 6977261589
Musses
15 63082 Stratoni
+30 6977367712
Natasa
9 63075 Ierissos
+30 2377022930
Olympiada Rooms
12 57014 Olympiada
+30 6987140533
Panorama
18 63075 Ierissos
+30 2377041092, 6972193212
Philippos
28 63075 Ammouliani
+30 2377051326
Platanos
21 57014 Olympiada
+30 2376051265
Roula
10 63082 Stratoni
+30 2376022541
Thea Yasoo Holiday Apartments
8 63075 Ammouliani
+30 6978187321
18 57014 Olympiada
+30 6983153300
Villa Anna
8 57014 Olympiada
+30 6948 289281
Villa Trygona
5 63075 Ammouliani
+30 6976427657
Alkyonis
16 63075 Ammouliani
+30 2377051441
Archontiko Toliadis
14 63075 Ouranoupoli
+30 2377071401
Athos Bay Villas
18 63075 Ammouliani
+30 2377051044
Dioni
10 63075 Ouranoupoli
+30 2377071627, 6976816331
Traditional Inns
Dominici
32
6 63075 Ammouliani
+30 2377051011
Where to stay Fax
Website
info@efrosini.gr
www.villaalmira.gr
tinafili2010@gmail.com
aristidis-rooms@aristidis-rooms.gr
www.aristidis-rooms.gr
alexandrospashalidis@yahoo.com
www.copa-cabbana.com
kara.theodora@gmail.com giotastudio@yahoo.gr
www.giota-studios.gr
info@maria-ouranoupoli.gr pinelopikiaki@gmail.com info@melidron-nearoda.com
www.melidron-nearoda.com
k.grammatikakis18@gmail.com info@natasa-appartments.com fanisrooms@hotmail.com
www.olympiada-rooms.gr
bobpro3@yahoo.gr
www.panorama-studios.net
tasoula.kiaki@gmail.com anastasiadousou@yahoo.gr flygod@live.com vanazk@gmail.com yasoo.holidays@gmail.com
www.yasoo-apartments.gr
yannakam@yahoo.gr
www.olimpiada.gr/villayanna
bessystam@gmail.com
info@alkyonis-apartments.gr
www.alkyonis-apartments.gr
info@archodiko.gr
www.archodiko.gr
info@athosbay.gr
www.athosbay.gr
info@xenonasdioni.com
www.xenonasdioni.com
annarodo@yahoo.gr
MOUNT ATHOS AREA ORGANISATION 33
Name En Iko Cristianna
Beds Address
Telephone Numbers
9 57014 Olympiada
+30 2376051455, +30 6977261662
Helianthus
14 63075 Ammouliani
+30 2377051155
Ikies Alexandrou
16 63074 Arnea
+30 2372023210, 23211, +30 6944641656
Ikies Mitsiou
12 63074 Arnea
+30 2371022744
Ismini
20 63075 Ammouliani
+30 2377051407, +306974320921
Kargas Apartments
18 57014 Olympiada
+30 2376051000
Konaki
22 63074 Arnea
+30 2372022991, 21109
Limanaki
20 63075 Ammouliani
+30 2377051342
Milies
20 57014 Olympiada
+30 2376051289
Nostos
7 63075 Ammouliani
+30 2377051030, +30 6944792729
Pansion Katerina
14 63075 Ouranoupoli
+30 2377071135
Pasalimani
18 63075 Ammouliani
+30 2377051133
Prasino Horio
20 63074 Arnea
+30 2372022090
Princess
7 63075 Ouranoupoli
+30 23770 71085
Rodamos
15 63100 Cholomontas
+30 6948041063
Ta Konstantadika
15 63074 Arnea
+30 2372023060
Toxotis
12 63075 Ierissos
+30 6976436987
Virragas
10 63100 Vrastama
+30 2371071429
Campings Ammouliani
63075 Ammouliani
+30 2377051297
Comitsa
63075 Nea Roda
+30 6976221683
Ierissos
63075 Ierissos
+30 2377021125, +30 2377021130
Delfini
63076 Ierissos
+30 6984124606
Ouranoupoli Camping & Bungalows
63075 Ouranoupoli
+30 2377071171
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Where to stay Fax
Website
info@en-iko-christianna.gr
www.en-iko-christianna.gr
info@helianthus.gr
www.helianthus.gr
+30 2310227767
inn@oikia-alexandrou.gr
www.oikia-alexandrou.gr
+30 2372022877
welcome@mitsiou.gr
www.mitsiou.gr
+30 2377051408
Ammouliani@gmail.com
www.hotelismini.gr
info@kargas-apartments.gr
www.kargas-apartments.gr
hotelkonaki@otenet.gr
www.hotelkonaki.com
+30 2372021115
sakarellou@gmail.com miljes@the.forthnet.gr
+30 2377071135
info@xenonasnostos.com
www.xenonasnostos.com
konrigas@ath.forthnet.gr
www,pansionkaterina.com
tasarasx@yahoo.gr +30 2372022097
info@prasinohorio.gr
www.prasinohorio.gr
info@ouranoupolis-princess.com
www.ouranoupolis-princess.com
info@rodamos.gr
www.rodamos.gr
mariakar89@hotmail.com xmmilos@gmail.com +30 2371071472
info@viraggas.gr
www.viraggas.gr
info@alikescamping.gr
www.alikescamping.gr
+30 2377021084, +30 2310741500
valmalliaris@gmail.com
www.camping-comitsa.gr
+30 23770 21132
axtada@dimosaristoteli.gr
www.dimosaristoteli.gr/gr/municipality/ dimos/municipalenterpriseCamping
kostasgrigori62@hotmail.gr +30 2377071396
camping-ouranoupoli@hotmail.com www.camping-ouranoupoli.gr
MOUNT ATHOS AREA ORGANISATION 35
Epilogue As you understand, an area that is in itself a dynamic world-class religious destination, featuring dozens of pilgrimage sites and alternative pilgrimage tours, cannot be done justice by an entry in a professional directory - not matter how voluminous. We chose to recommend unique points of interest, placing them in a “circle�, to allow you to easily tour them all, combining pilgrimage visits throughout the Athos area peninsula and the Athos peninsula. We opted not to present a simple listing of the hundreds of pilgrimage sites in the region, but to put on the map routes that will provide an emotional experience, places that will excite you, tours destined to be unforgettable, as they are different, innovative, bring you close to nature and are above all unique. We hope to impress you and to turn your religious holiday into a lifetime experience, making you want to come again to this place, which is as blessed as it is famed to be! Enjoy your trip!
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Epilogue
MOUNT ATHOS AREA ORGANISATION 37
MOUNT ATHOS AREA ORGANIZATION 63075 OURANOUPOLI, HALKIDIKI E-mail: info@mountathosarea.org www.mountathosarea.org Material - Text - Editing: Maria I. Pappa Design: Cat Advertising
MOUNT ATHOS AREA ORGANISATION 39
MOUNT ATHOS AREA ORGANISATION 63075 Ouranoupoli, Halkidiki e-mail: info@mountathosarea.org www.mountathosarea.org
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