“There’s no place like Halkidiki.” Every summer, the pristine beaches of Halkidiki in northwest Greece offer the perfect escape for nearby city-dwellers in Thessaloniki wanting to relax by the sea.

Travelers from abroad have also fallen in love with region, according to TripAdvisor, who recently gave three hotels on the peninsula top rankings in this year’s prestigious Traveler’s Choice Awards. 

The 5-Star Ikos Olivia Hotel, located in Gerakini, was chosen as the best all-inclusive resort in the world for 2021. The resort has four swimmings pools, numerous dining options, and access to the stunning Tigana beach, famed for its turquoise Aegean waters.

The 5-Star Sani Dunes Hotel, located on Kassandra’s western coast, was named as the third best hotel in the Top 25 Hotels – World category. With multiple swimming pools and six tennis courts, the hotel boasts the renowned Fresco restaurant, offering an innovative menu by the Michelin-starred chef Ettore Botrini. Children must be 13 years of age or over to stay at the resort, making it a popular romantic getaway.

In a statement by the COO of the Sani/Ikos Resort Group, owner of both hotels, Dimitris Kontos expressed delight at the two awards: “This fills us with pride and gives us the necessary motivation to continue our efforts to stay on top with even greater dedication.”

A third hotel, the 4-Star Achtis Hotel in the picturesque village of Afytos on Kassandra’s northeast coast, was named fifth best hotel in the world in the awards, announced in January.