Information about Santorini

Santorini or Thira

Santorini (or Thíra), the precious gem of the Aegean, is actually a group of islands consisting of Thíra, Thirassiá, Asproníssi, Palea and Nea Kaméni in the southernmost part of Cyclades.

Τhe whole complex of Santorini islands is still an active volcano (the same as Méthana, Mílos and Nísiros) and probably the only volcano in the world whose crater is in the sea. The islands that form Santorini came into existence as a result of intensive volcanic activity twelve huge eruptions occurred, one every 20,000 years approximately, and each violent eruption caused the collapse of the volcano’s central part creating a large crater (caldera). The volcano, however, managed to recreate itself over and over again.

Santorini is considered to be the most sought after place for a romantic getaway in Greece, since there are not many places in the world where you can enjoy exquisitely clear waters while perched on the rim of a massive active volcano in the middle of the sea! The island has a growing reputation as a “wedding destination” for couples not only from Greece but from all over the world. A trip to Santorini with the other half is a dream for anyone who has seen at least one photo of the island’s famous Caldera and exchanging kisses beneath Santorini’s famous sunset is the ultimate romantic experience!

Beaches

Red Beach

The red beach is arguably one of the most famous and beautiful beaches of Santorini. It is located only some steps away from the ancient site of Akrotiri. The small size of the beach creates a much crowded atmosphere and there are many days where most of the visitors choose not to make it all the way down to the beach and instead admire this unique landscape of red and black volcanic rocks from the headland. The access is relatively easy. You can leave your car at the parking space and continue all the way down that takes about two minutes. As you gradually get down to the beach you will be impressed by the different colorings of the cliffs. Many sunbeds and umbrellas cover the dark sand and right on the seashore are some nice pebbles you can use for your collection. Snorkeling is highly recommended due to the interesting rocks. You can also access the beach by boat that departs from Akrotiri port.

White Beach

The cove right next to the Red beach, on the southern side of Santorini, is known as the White beach. It is very similar to the Red beach, with black pebbles on the shore, only that the surrounding cliffs are white. This beach is accessible by boat or on foot from the Red beach. It is less popular than the neighbouring cove and therefore more quiet. It doesn't have facilities, except for some umbrellas and sunbeds along the coast, although the surrounding rocks provide some shade too.

Vlychada

The beach follows a smooth descent. You will notice as you approach two large chimneys. One is directly behind the beach and one nearby, but don't worry as this factory is no longer in use and the brick structures are actually quite pleasant to look at. This beach of Santorini itself is quite long covered with dark grey sand that one finds all over the island. There are a number of sun loungers here. It is worth having a look at the rock formations behind the beach which are quite interesting.

Perivolos

The picturesque beach of Perivolos is ideally located in close proximity to Perissa which is a mere 3 km away. This beautiful beach of Santorini lies on the southern end of the island. The beach distinguishes for its sparkling azure blue waters and tranquil atmosphere. On the beachfront there are numerous taverns, pubs and restaurants serving fresh fish and local delicacies. Perivolos beach is easily reachable from Perissa. In case you don't have your own vehicle, there are local buses and cabs that will take you there. Those who like to walk can also choose the path that passes through the countryside. Perivolos is basically a continuation from the beach of Perissa and Agios Georgios. Perivolos is surely one of the most well- organized beaches of Santorini offering a plethora of exciting water sports facilities, like windsurfing, scuba diving and jet ski.

Perissa

Perissa is a beautiful beach situated 15 km southeast of Fira extending for 7 km on the southeastern side of Santorini. The beach features unique charateristics, black sand, crystalline waters and various beach facilities. However, the enormous rock called Mesa Vouno that rises from the sea is the main attraction of the beach and the entire area. Visitors are left spellbound by the stunning view of the rock especially when it shines in the dark. Perissa is a nice tourist resort witnessing a huge tourist movement that starts from in the middle of the summer season. The village offers a great variety of hotels for all tastes and budgets, restaurants, taverns, cafes and bars. The area is extremely developed with modern amenities and quite inviting while retaining its strong traditional character. From Perissa, a small path crosses the mountain and leads to the ruins of Ancient Thera. The excursions can be made by foot or riding donkeys.

Kamari

Kamari is a famous beach resort of Santorini situated 10 km southeast of Fira, the island's capital. Quite similar to the landscape of Perissa, the beach is covered by black sand while on the left side of the beach is an enormous rock called Mesa Vouno that rises from the sea. The area is extremely attractive, especially at night when the rock shines in the dark. The beach of Kamari is fully organised offering a wide range of facilities like sunbeds, umbrellas and various types of water sports. The traditional houses line the village of Kamari offering a beautiful view to the sea. Visitors can take a nice walk along the waterfront. Due to the modern amenities including hotels, restaurants, snacks, cafes, bars and night clubs the village becomes quite popular with tourists during the peak season. From Kamari, a road takes you up the mountain to Ancient Thira, and a caique can bring you to the wild isle of Anafi.

Cuisine

Santorini, though small in size, is considered to be a gastronomic destination with some of the finest restaurants, wineries and restaurants throughout the country. Santorini’s cuisine is mainly based on the island’s agricultural products. Products nourished by the volcanic soil, the sea breeze and the sunlight of the Aegean Sea. These products have a unique taste. They provide us with top quality ingredients for cooking an original, tasty and healthy food.

Ntomatokeftedes (tomato fritters) The island is home to a specific variety of tomatoes called Santorini tomatoes, which are the size of cherries. Sweet and with an intense red colour, they are at the centre of the ntomatokeftedes (or tomato fritters) dish. A vegetarian appetiser fried in hot olive oil, it also includes peppers and onions, mint, and other aromatic herbs in a thick batter. Make sure to try them the next time you are visiting the island.

Fava Santorini (Yellow Split Peas) Fava Santorini has distinctive attributes as they become mushy on their own, they have a purer aroma and they are tighter. You will find them in many recipes, along with onion, with small pieces of pork, with aubergines and tomatoes, as well as in the form of soup.

Chlorotyri Made in limited quantities, chlorotyri is a local cheese that you can only find on the island. Slightly sour yet creamy, this white cheese is made from goat’s milk. Use it as a spread on bread or mix it in a Santorini salad, a local variant of the Greek salad, which also includes the local cherry tomatoes.

The Santorini Cherry Tomato (Tomataki) The famous Santorini cherry tomato is a unique variety that flourishes thanks to the arid soil and dominated the islands cultivating from the 18th to the 20th century. Tomato paste and tomato fritters (a traditional dish of Santorini) are produced from cherry tomato and have a really inimitable taste.

White eggplant The volcanic soil of the island makes a perfect breeding ground for another rare product: the white eggplant. It is a unique variety that has fewer seeds than its purple counterpart, plus it has a sweet taste. Many dishes involving the vegetable, such as white eggplant purée, are available in several restaurants. Don’t miss your chance to try it.

Capers In the island you will find shrubs of wild capers, from which we collect the blossom and the leaves. It has a characteristic sharp aroma and a spicy taste.

Activities

Wine Tasting

Santorini is an island with long wine-making tradition. The volcanic soil and the special climate of Santorini give a unique taste to the local wine. The wine of Santorini was famous all over the Mediterranean basin in the ancient times and even today it is exported in many countries of the world. Vinsanto, Nychteri and Mezzo are just some of the local varieties that can be found in many restaurants on the island and in various cellars in the world. A very special thing to do on the island is visit some of the many Santorini wineries, spread all over the countryside. Most wineries in Santorini are actually found in the central and the southern part of the island

Scuba Diving

One of the best places to do scuba diving is in Santorini. The marine life that you can find the coast of Santorini is arguably well-known. The island’s waters, molded by a volcanic eruption that took place in the 16th century, are rich with mineral, supporting a solid range of coral and creatures. These great volcanic eruptions have formed wonderful underwater backdrop giving scuba divers ceaseless options for wall dives and unending stops all over the volcanic islets and the caldera.