At the end of the year in Sani, the temperatures continue to drop and the rainfall chances jump up to the highest the area sees all year. December has the most rainfall, with an average of 55mm falling over 11 days in the month. The chance of rain on any given day is 35%, so you'll want to bring along an umbrella or poncho to stay dry during your stay. Even with the increased rainfall chances, you'll still get warmer weather than most of the rest of Europe is experiencing this month.
While rare, snow is possible in this part of Greece, with a 3% chance of snow on any given day. As you're packing for your holiday, bring along a warm coat or jacket, as well as long-sleeved shirts, sweaters, and trousers. You'll also want a warm and sturdy pair of shoes for sight-seeing. Like the nearby town of Afitos, the average daily temperature sits at 7°C (about 45°F), cold but still nice enough to spend the afternoons outside.
At night, the temperatures drop down to almost freezing, hitting 4°C (around 39°F). The highs reach 10°C (about 50°F). You can expect about 4 hours of sunlight each day, so you'll want to squeeze in your outdoor activities during the middle part of the day when the sun is shining. The chance of a sunny day is 17% and the chance of clouds is 43%.
Most people aren't doing much swimming this time of the year, with an average sea temperature of 14°C (around 57°F). The wind stays steady this month with a 17% chance of a breezy day. Fog is also a possibility, with a 15% chance of a fog day. Fortunately, the strong winds typically help disperse the fog so it doesn't stick around all day.
Where to Stay
Sitting above the beautiful Aegean Sea, the Blue Bay Hotel in Afitos welcomes guests with affordable and comfortable accommodations. The large swimming pool overlooks the gorgeous blue waters of the sea and has numerous lounge chairs and umbrellas to stay out of the Greek sunshine. The long list of hotel amenities includes 24-hour reception desk, car and bike rentals, library, laundry services, lounge, restaurants, and snack bars.
The Hotel Ammon Zeus sits on the eastern coast of the Kassandra peninsula, not far from the Sani resort area. Amenities include water sports rentals, daily and nightly entertainment, swimming pool, sun terrace, kids' pool, and hotel restaurant with breakfast and lunch buffets. The resort also has a spa with hot tub, hamam, sauna, and gym. The little ones will love the kids' club and playground and parents will appreciate the babysitting services.
Kick back and unwind on your December holiday at the Margarita Sea Side Hotel, with 30 guest rooms, including most that face the relaxing waves of the sea. The other rooms look out onto the lush garden. The kitchen and bar serves food and drinks right on the beach all day long and guests have access to umbrellas and sunbeds on the beach. Other amenities include a mini library, game and television room, internet lounge, and breakfast buffet.
Things to Do
Get a little a Christmas shopping done in December at Maria's The Corner Shop in Afitos. The shop has a little bit of everything, from clothing to beach gear to souvenir trinkets. You'll find beautiful handmade pashminas and scarves, as well as fun t-shirts and beach towels. Maria, the shop owner and namesake, is friendly and helpful and she keeps her store well-stocked.
Treat yourself to a full day of revitalising spa treatments at one of the Sani Resort spas. Each of the hotels has its own spa offering a wide variety of services like massages, facials, body treatments, and manicures and pedicures. All of the spas use specially-created products from Anne Semonin. Along with treatments, you can enjoy saunas, steam rooms, and pools. Couples will appreciate the special couples rooms for massages.
Eating and Drinking Out
Mix it up from the usual Greek food and get a taste of Ireland on the coast of Greece at Shenanigans Irish Bar and Grill in Pefkohori. The traditional Irish pub has a menu full of classics like fish and chips, Irish stew, steak and Guinness pie, and Sunday roasts. You can also get bar favourites like chicken tenders, French fries, and good old hamburgers. Cosy up to the bar for craft beers, ales, and specialty drinks.
Away from the hustle and bustle of the centre of town, Rementzo Taverna sits off the beaten path in Afitos. It's well worth the trip though, with a menu full of fresh seafood and fish. Favourites from the menu include octopus, pork souvla, and moussaka. The restaurant is open for lunch and dinner and has a wonderful outdoor deck and patio for eating in the pleasant weather.
For a rocking good time, head over to the Casablanca Bar in Kriopigi. The bar is filled with décor, pictures, and memorabilia from the movie "Casablanca". Along with a good selection of draft beers, wines, and cocktails, you can get a variety of food, like hamburgers, sandwiches, pizza, and pasta. Save room for dessert with the selection of sweet treats including ice cream sundaes.
