Overlooking the Thermaic Gulf, Neoi Epivates is a small coastal town to the south of Thessaloniki. It was settled by refugees from Selimpaşa during the Greco-Turkish War and was originally known by the Turkish name of “Bahçe Çiflik”.
Things to do in Néoi Epivátes
For a day on the sand, head to Neoi Epivates Beach, which stretches the length of the town. You can sunbathe beneath a beach umbrella before refreshing with a swim in the warm waters of the Aegean Sea. Backing the beach are plenty of restaurants where you can dine throughout the day, including Mama Bloom, Tramonto and the Primus Pizzeria.
Rising east of Neoi Epivates are the wooded slopes of Mount Chortiatis, which forms part of Seich Sou Forest National Park. Since ancient times, the mountain has played an important role in Thessaloniki’s water supply and is now a popular hiking destination. Chestnut, walnut and oak trees line the trails, together with wild rose bushes. From the 1,201-metre summit of Mount Chortiatis, there are sweeping views across the region.
Neoi is a convenient base for exploring Thessaloniki, a lively port city founded in the 4th century BC by King Cassander of Macedon. Its streets are littered with the remains of Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman buildings and the Archaeological Museum is a top attraction. Admire the 15th-century White Tower and the mosaic-panelled church of Hagios Demetrios before getting lost amidst the colourfully painted buildings of Ladadika.
Getting around Néoi Epivátes
Neoi Epivates is around 30 minutes’ drive from the centre of Thessaloniki and 15 minutes from Thessaloniki Airport Makedonia, which has flights to destinations across Europe and the Middle East. Renting a car is the most convenient way of getting to Neoi Epivates and exploring the surrounding region.