A masterpiece of passion and style. The power of the volcanic island of Santorini creates an energy that overwhelms the senses. Exquisite luxury, amazing food and wine and the unforgettable Santorini sunset are just the start of what this legendary Greek island in the Cyclades offers visitors.
The Caldera experience. Nothing prepares you for the real thing when it comes to Santorini’s caldera. Each glimpse will feel more magical than the last. During an evening meal as the sun begins to set; soaking in an infinity pool carved right into the rock of your boutique hotel; strolling in one of the villages or along the ridge of the 300m tall cliff overlooking the sea… maybe even exploring on horseback. There it is, a flash of sparkling Aegean blue and the cluster of isles formed (along with Santorini) in the volcanic eruption 3,000 years ago. Or maybe your caldera view is from sea level today, on a catamaran cruise around the island. You’ve barely begun and you’ve got enough memories for a whole holiday.
Right up there on your list of things to do in Santorini is a stroll around one of the world’s most photogenic villages. Oia is the essential Cyclades… sugar-cubed houses, blue-domed churches, bell towers, windmills and cute little alleyways. And every now and then, a magical sighting of the caldera. Take your time strolling among the designer stores, art galleries, cafes and fantastic eateries. But don’t leave without visiting Ammoudi, the tiny fishing village with great seafood tavernas around 300 steps below Oia. From here, you can catch a short boat ride to Armeni, a tiny settlement with yet more Instagrammable magic.
Akrotiri is a prehistoric city that lies beneath a bioclimatic shelter. Walking over wooden bridges, you will encounter one of the most important and well-preserved civilisations in the Mediterranean, which was covered by the ashes of the great volcanic eruption of 1600 BC. Visit the museum of Prehistoric Thera, at Fira, to admire its famous frescoes, among them Spring, The Monkeys and The African. A world frozen in time awaits you on the island of Santorini.
The cuisine of Santorini boasts extraordinary ingredients thanks to the nutrient-rich volcanic soil. Amongst the island’s specialities are its famous sun-dried cherry tomatoes, fava beans (split peas), capers, and white eggplant. The local chefs are always experimenting, combining traditional recipes with modern gastronomy, making the island a top culinary destination in Greece.
Santorini island is lined with unique beaches in exotic colours of black, red, and white, a product of its explosive past. At Kokkini Paralia (Red Beach), Aspri Paralia (White Beach), Perivolos, Perissa and Kamari, the earth has been naturally transformed into immortal works of art. Take a stroll along the rim of the caldera. Top (literally) of all the experiences to enjoy on Santorini island is to take a stroll along the rim of the caldera, from Fira to Firostefani and Imerovigli. The more adventurous can challenge themselves by taking the path to Oia, passing the Prophet Elijah’s Church, Chapel of the Cross and Black Mountain, which is iridescent at sunset.
Viewing the sunset from Oia, as thousands do each year, is a ritual. For a few minutes, the energy of the landscape is palpable. When the fiery sun sinks into the sea within the caldera, this scene will be forever cherished in your heart.
You can easily rent a boat or hop on a day cruise at Athinio, Gialos or Ammoudi and take a tour around the caldera. Discover the islands opposite Santorini, especially Thirasia where you can experience the Santorini of 50 years ago.
Red and black rocks create a wild landscape around the crater on Nea Kameni, another small island at the centre of the caldera. From the top of a volcano with a 2.5 million-year history, the view is simply incredible. The myth that Santorini is the ancient city of Atlantis, which submerged over 9,500 years ago, comes to life before your eyes. And just off shore, there are thermal waters that form a volcanic spa.
Santorini is considered one of the most romantic destinations in the world and is a dream honeymoon and wedding location for many couples. The sunset views along the caldera, luxury accommodation and dining/entertainment options are considered amongst the most romantic in the world. It has a population of around 15,500.
Finding Instagram heaven in Oia. Right up there on your list of things to do in Santorini is a stroll around one of the world’s most photogenic villages. Oia is the essential Cyclades… sugar-cubed houses, blue-domed churches, bell towers, windmills and cute little alleyways. And every now and then, a magical sighting of the caldera. Take your time strolling among the designer stores, art galleries, cafes and fantastic eateries. But don’t leave without visiting Ammoudi, the tiny fishing village with great seafood tavernas around 300 steps below Oia. From here, you can catch a short boat ride to Armeni, a tiny settlement with yet more Instagrammable magic.
Lay back and let the luxury-fest begin. Santorini and luxury are synonymous. This is the island of infinity pools that flirt with the edge of the cliff, with the Aegean Sea laid out in front of you in all its glory. So how about starting off relaxing on a sunbed, a refreshing cocktail in hand? Or perhaps a romantic meal for two, paired with a fine wine (made locally, of course)? You’ll be in the mood to explore more in no time.
Taste the exquisite cuisine of Santorini. The cuisine of Santorini boasts extraordinary ingredients thanks to the nutrient-rich volcanic soil. Amongst the island’s specialities are its famous sun-dried cherry tomatoes, fava beans (split peas), capers, and white eggplant. The local chefs are always experimenting, combining traditional recipes with modern gastronomy, making the island a top culinary destination in Greece.
The wineries of Finikia. A stone’s throw from cosmopolitan Oia, you will discover the multicoloured settlement of Finikia. These old wineries have been converted into homes that are not your typical Cycladic stonewash white but rather are painted in ochre, blue and pink, and provide a beautiful contrast against the dark blue background of the Aegean. Walk the cobblestone streets, take a rest in the courtyard of St Matrona, with its huge palm tree, and taste the local delicacies in the area’s tavernas. The taste of ancient vineyards. It’s time to invoke the spirit of Dionysus! Try the one-of-a-kind whites and reds of Santorini, especially the renowned Vinsanto from the vineyards that have a legacy of more than 3,200 years.
How to Get There :
Santorini has an airport with regular direct flights to Athens and international arrivals during the summer months. There are regular ferries to/from Piraeus and Rafina (eastern Attica) and many other Greek islands, including the Cyclades (Ios, Milos, Syros, Paros etc) Dodecanese (including Rhodes and Kos) and Crete.
Famous For :
Santorini is best known for its caldera views, classic Cycladic architecture (whitewashed cubed houses with blue shutters and little churches with domed roofs), luxury hotels and villas and romantic sunsets. It is also known for its traditional villages, white wines (Assyrtiko), Mediterranean cuisine and the volcano that created the caldera and its unique landscape that includes colourful beaches
