Review & Pictures by Shaun Troke
Sithonia is the finger famous for attracting couples.
And, located at the top end of Halkidiki’s second peninsula is the Blue Dolphin, a luxury hotel in the tourist resort area of Metamorfosi.
Sithonia is an excellent midpoint if you’re travelling all over Halkidiki.
With beaches & views galore, I was sad that my time at the Blue Dolphin would only be for one night…
But, that one night was enough to make an impression…
RECEPTION
Unless you’re arriving by taxi or coach, I’d suggested using GPS when driving to the Blue Dolphin, as it’s down the end of a road that can be difficult to find without satellite navigation.
At the end of that road, you’ll find the free open-space car park outside of the resort…
But, the true magic happens once you’re inside the gates of the hotel.
From the checking-in to the checking-out, the staff throughout the entire complex were absolutely helpful. And not only helpful, but friendly, too.
Two particular staff memories are from the restaurant, when waiting staff & kitchen staff delightfully communicated in a way that felt down to Earth, rather than having to make an effort just because they work there.
ROOM
From the outside, the blocks housing the room’s look like little cabins, and it’s hard to assume what the inside might look like…
So, I wasn’t sure what to expect as I approached the door…
Once I stepped inside, it immediately became apparent that I already wanted to stay longer than one night!
The room was magnificent. It was a bedroom SLASH office, all in one!
The perfect environment to work in…
AND the perfect environment to sleep in.
The entire room is modern.
And, the bathroom & walk-in shower are the same:
Perfect.
Although I’m a lover of balconies, there was no balcony in the room I had. Instead, there was a patio…
And, had the weather been better – and had I more time – I would’ve tried out this seating area, for sure.
REST & RECREATION
Facilities
The hotel grounds are great to walk around.
The complex is big enough for long pathways that lead you to other buildings, as well as into nature…and, to the beach.
Food & Drink
Down on the beach is the Blue Cafe.
The Cafe – and the nearby sun-loungers on the beach – offer views toward Kassandra.
Again, I’m sad that I didn’t get the chance to spend more time at this Cafe, as it looked like a superb place to sit with a coffee, and reflect on things.
Main meals are served in the Amalthia Taverna…
It’s an elevated dining space overlooking the pool, with rows of huge windows allowing for views towards the Aegean Sea and Kassandra.
The all-you-can-eat buffets were some of the best I’ve experienced!
Food dishes from all over Europe are served, yet each dish has its very own touch of ‘Greekness’ added to it.
The selection was huge! And, with this much variety, you never struggle to find something that you like.
Note: Drinks are served at an additional cost
Out & About
If you find yourself wanting to explore Sithonia outside of the complex, the Blue Dolphin is nearby to many other seaside villages and resorts…
Nikiti is a busier village, offering the most breathtaking views at sunset.
I’ve only ever been here at night, and even then, the streets are constantly breathing with restaurant, bars, & shops.
Psakoudia is one of my personal favourites on Sithonia. Many people like to visit here for the day…and, if you’re someone who enjoys beach life, the beach is this resorts main feature.
On a previous visit to Sithonia, I briefly stopped by Ormos Panagias, which is located on the other side of the peninsula.
Here, is the long stretch of Trani Ammouda Beach, and the area offers views towards Ammouliani Island and Mouth Athos.
RESORT RESULT
Did I feel this resort hotel catered only for couples?
No. Not at all.
Sure, I spotted couples around the resort, but I mostly saw pairs of friends and groups of friends, as well as a few single people.
Perhaps this is different in the high-season…maybe more couples visit then…
But, the main impression I got from this resort is that it’s suitable for anyone.
This is a true resort at its best, and it’s TOO GOOD for a short-term visit.
So, if you’re planning to spend just ONE NIGHT at this hotel, I can tell you right now…
It won’t be long enough!
Book your stay at the Blue Dolphin here:
https://www.bluedolphinhotel.eu/index.php/en/
You can find out more about Halkidiki in our series GOING SOLO, available to watch here on YouTube!