Porto Valitsa

Porto Valitsa in Kassandra Halkidiki. The secret bay.

Name: Porto Valitsa derives its name from the hotel owners, who augmented the existing Arvanitic toponym Valitsa by adding “Porto.”

Etymology of Valitsa: The etymology of Valitsa likely originates from the corruption of “vavalitje” or “vaulitje,” signifying a wavy sea. This term is derived from “vale,” meaning wave.

Location: Nestled in Chalkidiki on the Kassandra Peninsula, Porto Valitsa graces the eastern side near The Cape of Paliouri. Positioned at the first of the three stone fingers of the foot, the Kanastreo Cape, it belongs to the municipality of Kassandra and stands 2.5 km from the village of Paliouri and 112 km from the bustling city of Thessaloniki.

Characteristics of the Area as a Diving Site: Porto Valitsa serves as a captivating diving locale, offering a diverse and immersive underwater experience. The left side of Valitsa Bay, known as Porto Valitsa, beckons divers with a sandy path cutting through a posidonia forest. The seabed undergoes a gradual transformation, transitioning from sandy expanses to rocky terrain adorned with steps, large rocks, and overhangs draped in vibrant vegetation.

On the right side, the dive begins at approximately 4 – 5m depth, where the seascape swiftly evolves from a sea grass field to a mesmerizing array of boulders. As divers venture deeper, they encounter a vertical façade adorned with crinoids, lobsters, crabs, and an assortment of marine life inhabiting crevices and holes. Moray eels, octopuses, groupers, and sargus fish contribute to the rich tapestry of biodiversity in this underwater sanctuary.

The unique topography, coupled with the diverse marine species and the juxtaposition of sandy and rocky landscapes, renders Porto Valitsa a truly enchanting and memorable diving destination in the Chalkidiki region. Divers can explore the underwater realm, discovering a world teeming with life and natural wonders, making Porto Valitsa a must-visit for those seeking an immersive and unforgettable diving experience in the azure waters of the Kassandra peninsula.