Santorini

Santorini! Who hasn’t heard this name? This picturesque Greek island needs no introduction and is recognisable anywhere in the world. It is a bucket-list destination for many and welcomes millions of visitors each year.

This dream island is located in the southern Aegean Sea and is a part of the Cyclades archipelago. Fun fact, Santorini is more like a nickname given by the locals and its official name is Thera.

History 

The island was victim to the Minoan eruption, one of the most destructive volcanic eruptions in the world. This disaster was the main cause for the downfall of the Minoan civilization which flourished in Ancient Greece almost 3500 years ago.

Santorini Caldera

Santorini is a minor archipelago of its own, comprising five islands – the main island Santorini and the uninhabited islands Thirasia, Aspronisi, Nea Kameni and Palea Kameni.

A caldera is a circular cauldron-like hollow that is formed after the magma of a volcano is emptied. In this case, since the volcano is underwater, parts of the caldera are submerged. This is how we have the crescent-shaped Santorini and the other islands scattered on the caldera. An aerial view of these islands will show how they form an irregular outline of a circle.

In spite of being an active volcanic site, Santorini’s irresistible beauty allures travellers from all around the world. Located on the western part of the island, the towns of Oia, Fira, Imerovigli and Firostefani are called the ‘Caldera’s Eyebrow’. They are dramatically perched atop high cliffs and offer breathtaking views of the volcanic complex.

Romantic Getaway

Santorini is one of the most popular honeymoon destinations in the world and is a particular favourite among lovebirds. Apart from its charming buildings with an Aegean backdrop, the sunrise and sunsets of Santorini are simply beyond words. The sunsets, especially, are legendary and you can see couples share kisses and enjoy romantic dinners in this surreal setting. Oia and Imerovigli are the best spots to watch the sunset and hundreds of tourists gather here to marvel at this fascinating phenomenon.

Wine

Santorini boasts of an impressive wine industry and it goes without saying that a wine tour is mandatory while you are here. Throughout the island, you will come across sprawling vineyards among traditional villages. The wine is produced from indigenous grape varieties of the Aegean which are grown in volcanic soil, giving Santorini’s wine a unique taste and a reputation as the best wine in Greece.

Caldera Cruise

If you want to get away from the island to explore the other parts of the archipelago, then a cruise is a great option. Most tours will take you on a visit to the caldera’s Kameni islands – you can go hiking and enjoy views of a volcanic crater or visit the hot springs to relax.

Akrotiri

Akrotiri, located in the Santorini’s south, is an archaeological site of an ancient settlement that began in the fifth millennium BC. Today, it stands as a reminder of the catastrophic Minoan eruption and you can visit the ruins which are covered in volcanic ash. It was this prehistoric city that gave birth to the idea of ‘Atlantis – the lost city’ by the great philosopher Plato.

Beaches

While the western part of the island is famous for its dazzling views, the eastern part slopes down to sea level and is lined with impressive beaches. Unlike the usual white sand beaches of Greece, the volcanic beaches of Santorini have pebbled and red or black coloured shores which are bounded by rugged rock formations. Perivolos, Perissa, Kamari, Monolithos, Vourvoulos and Red Beach are some of the most popular ones.

Why should you visit?

Possibly, the one place that could give Paris a run for its money as the best romantic destination is Santorini. Well, why not? This elegant island-town with its aesthetic appeal, famed sunsets and stunning natural setting packs everything that a romantic craves for!