The official start of spring in the Sani area means a jump in temperatures, as well as more daylight hours to enjoy the beauty of the Kassandra peninsula. The daily average temperature goes up four degrees compared to February's daily average of 7°C (about 45°F), with an average of 11°C (about 52°F) during the month of March. The lows still drop down to 6°C (around 43°F), cold but bearable for being outside.
During the day, the highs get up 15°C (about 59°F), inching toward the beautiful temperatures spring is known for in this part of Greece. Bring along lots of layers of long-sleeved shirts and sweaters so you can dress warmly to start the day and remove layers as the day goes on and the temperatures reach their peak. You probably will need a jacket or coat, but may only have to wear it at night and in the early morning hours, when the temperatures are at their lowest.
You'll have six hours of sunshine each day to get out and about, exploring the beautiful countryside surrounding the resort. The chance of a sunny day is 23 percent. Even with almost nine days of rainfall on average across the month, you most likely won't need your umbrella. The average amount of rainfall is only 29 mm, so any rain that does fall is generally light and doesn't last long. The chance of rain on any given day is 35 percent and the chance of a cloudy day is 32 percent.
While the sea temperatures are slowly warming up, it's still too cold for most people to do any swimming or even dip their toes in the water. The average temperature for this month is 13°C (about 55°F). Watch out for the winds that blow across the Aegean Sea and into the Halkidiki area; they can make the coastline feel even colder.
Where to Stay
For a taste of true luxury on your March getaway, try the White Suites Resort in the village of Afitos. The quaint resort has only 14 suites, so you're guaranteed personalised service during your stay in the Sani area. As the name suggests, the rooms and resort have neutral, white décor, perfect for a beach-side resort. Hotel amenities include private beach dinners, an open-air restaurant, beach bar, beautiful gardens, watersport rentals, and spa services.
Invoking the feelings of a traditional Greek villa, the Stamos Hotel is warm and welcoming. Inside, you'll find tasteful décor and rooms with lots of storage, televisions, private bathrooms, and balconies with views of the bay. Hotel amenities include maid and room service, laundry services, currency exchange, and car service. You'll also enjoy a swimming pool, breakfast room, outdoor café, and pool bar.
Though small, with only 10 guest rooms and two apartments, the Sivilla Hotel delivers big on amenities and extras. Each morning, you can enjoy a full breakfast, an on-site coffee shop, and evening cocktails and ice cream. Other amenities include public balcony and terrace with amazing views of the sea, free Wi-Fi, taxi services, and business center. Your furry friends are invited too at this pet-friendly hotel.
Things to Do
Explore the underground world of caves and caverns at the Cave of Petralona, also called the Cave of Red Stones. The caves sit at the foot of Mount Katsika and they are a treasure trove of historical data, full of stalactites and stalagmites, as well as numerous fossils. After your tour of the underground paths, check out the anthropological museum with even more fossil finds.
Interesting whether you follow the Christian faith or not, the Christian Collection in Ouranoupolis is a great way to spend a rainy March day. The unassuming white stone building houses a large collection of artifacts that explore the culture of the area. The artifacts, paintings, and other pieces in the collection take a look at the Christian religion throughout the Byzantine era.
Eating and Drinking Out
Offering some of the best views in all of Kassandra, Thea Thalassa is found in the village of Afitos, right on the Aegean coast. It sits high above the beach, giving you panoramic views of the water as you dine on Greek and Mediterranean dishes. The menu includes some of the freshest seafood around, with much of it caught right off the coastline. You'll enjoy delicacies like grilled octopus, squid, and huge Greek salads.
With a cozy dining room and a convenient location near the center of Afitos, Ta Bakaliarakia tou Pirati is the ideal choice for an authentic Greek lunch or dinner. The restaurant is open year round and has an outdoor patio for those warm spring, summer, and autumn months. The exposed stone walls and soft lighting create a romantic atmosphere great for a date night or just a peaceful dinner away from the crowds.
If you're in the village of Kallithea and need a quick pick-me-up, visit Agathi Coffee and More. Sit out on the deck and watch the world go by as you sip on delicious cups of coffee, espresso, and even beer and wine. The affordable café also serves up snacks, appetisers, and light meals like sandwiches and burgers. If you need to reconnect with the outside the world, you can also utilise the free Wi-Fi.
