By Melissa Hamilton
A volcanic island in the southern Aegean Sea, the Greek island of Santorini is the site of one of history’s largest volcanic eruptions, the Minoan (or Thera) eruption 3600 years ago which left a huge caldera (cauldron-shaped hollow) bordered by massive swathes of volcanic ash.
So Santorini’s dramatically beautiful coastline is literally forged in fire ̶ here you’ll see dazzling whitewashed villages perched on vertiginous cliffs in chameleonic colours, rugged sandy beaches, verdant vineyards in the interior and some of the world’s most spectacular sunsets.
If you’re travelling here for the first time, prepare to leave a little bit of your heart behind when you return home, but to fuel your wanderlust in the meantime, here are three reasons Santorini is sublime.
1. Living on the edge
Santorini attracts over two million tourists each year and the whitewashed settlements perched on the edge of the caldera cliffs in the west of the island are the honeytrap ̶ the island’s capital Fira (AKA Thira or Thera) is here, alongside satellite villages called Firostefani and Imerovigli, which sits at the highest point. Meanwhile, Oia in the north of the island is another preternaturally beautiful village which is becoming increasingly popular. If you want a taste of picture postcard Santorini, you’ll easily find accommodation around Fira on Booking.com and similar sites.
2. Amazing history
History buffs will be in their element in Santorini, especially at the site of Ancient Thira which is set 360m high on the Messavounou mountain and was occupied from the 9th Century BC until 726AD. The ancient metropolis was first controlled by the Dorians, but you’ll also see Greek, Roman and Byzantine ruins here, including houses with elaborate mosaics, a theatre, a gym and several temples. If you tour ancient Thira with Santorini Adventure, the company’s knowledgeable guides will explain its unique history and you can top up your knowledge further at the Museum of Prehistoric Thera in Fira.
3. Terrific road trips
This is a terrific island to explore by car and rolling around the roads here taking in the fresh air and discovering new delights around every corner is simply inspirational. Drive roughly northwest of Fira along the Michail Danezi and Thiras-Oias roads and you’ll reach the aforementioned haven of Oia in around 25 minutes. Here you’ll see stunning sights like Ammoudi Bay, bright blue domed churches and windmills, all of which look especially amazing when the sun sets. Stop along the way at local tavernas and try local delicacies like falafel, Greek yoghurt and feta cheese. You can also explore vineyards in the interior in locations like Pyrgos, there’s a ravishing red sand beach at Akrotiri and the caldera views around every corner are awe-inspiring. Hire a car in Santorini from a site like Enjoy and you can book online and collect conveniently when you land.
These three reasons that Santorini is sublime merely offer a taste of what’s on offer in this wonderful holiday destination ̶ you’ll enjoy a full banquet of brilliant experiences when you get there!
