Santorini is arguably the most breathtaking & romantic of the Greek Islands with the stark contrast between steep black cliffs, whitewashed buildings & azure blue Mediterranean sky & sea. A small crescent shaped island in the middle of the Greek Island group called the Cyclades, it is the rim of an ancient volcano which erupted about 1628 BC, leaving the caldera filled with sea water & forming the dramatic & precipitous cliffs along the west side of the island. The crescent of the island finishes at Akrotiri, where recent excavations unearthed a Minoan town buried by ash & lava preserving the vibrantly coloured wall-paintings of Thera.
Santorini today is made up of verdant vineyards & black volcanic beaches with whitewashed villages punctuating the landscape. Oia & Thira have the unique architectural feature of cave houses dug into the cliff & buildings with half-cylindrical roofs. Many are painted in colours taken from the ancient wall paintings & afford ever-changing views over the Aegean Sea From the steep cliffs on the west, the island slopes down to the volcanic black pebble beaches on the east side of the island.
Thermal springs warm the waters around the centre of the volcano located on a small island in the caldera, and offer an interesting excursion by boat. The volcanic soil of the island produces world acclaimed wine & vegetables, making a visit to one of the wine estates a must, & the food & drink one of the delights of Santorini.
The main village of Fira is located above the Old Port. Access to the village at the top of the cliff is on foot or on a donkey via a winding staircase of 566 steps. Today a modern cable car makes the ascent quickly & effortlessly. Fira has a vibrant night life. Starting with sunset cocktails from one of the many terrace bars & balconies facing the caldera, dine in the afterglow & follow with dancing the night away at a night club.
Oia, at the northwest tip of the island, is famous for the 360 degree views of the spectacular sunset. Many fine old mansions pay testimony to the fact that chic Oia was once the village of sea captains. These beautifully preserved buildings are now put to good use as art galleries, jewelry shops or gourmet restaurants. Other villages on the island retain their authentic charm as the traditional rhythm of island life continues. Santorini is an unforgettable experience & the perfect incentive reward.
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