If you’re thinking of beautiful clifftop villages, white-washed buildings, blue-doomed churches and spellbinding seascapes, you’re likely thinking of the achingly beautiful island of Santorini.
This luxury hideaway has some of the most photographed and lusted after views and visitas in the whole of the Mediterranean. Here, we round up the best breathtaking panoramas. Don’t forget your camera and selfie stick!
Across the Caldera
One of Santorini’s big pulls is its stunning caldera, now mostly submerged with two small volcanic islands at its centre. For the best views, head for the cliffside towns of Fira, Imerovigli, Firastefani and Oia. There’s a hiking trail that runs from Fira to Oia and takes around two hours – or save your legs and take a donkey or cable car ride.
Image via wikimedia
The Santo Winery, Pyrgos
Possibly the only way to improve upon the stunning crater views in Santorini is to pair them with delicious wines and nibbles. The Santo Winery is a must-visit place for foodies on the island. Relax on the terrace with your wine and enjoy the incredible views spreading out beneath you. A 12-wine selection with nibbles is an absolute steal at around €20 too! Plus they have a great choice of local wines to take away at bargain prices – a couple for the suitcase, maybe?
Image via flickr
Akrotiri Archaeological Site
This vast archaeological site is one of the most important prehistoric settlements of the Aegean. An amazing excavation project has uncovered incredibly well preserved Minoan ruins, including multi-story buildings, furniture and pottery. Get a brilliant panoramic view of the entire site from the elevated wooden walkway, and allow your mind to wander back to ancient times.
Image by Kevin Poh via flickr
Ancient Thera
Take another trip back in time at the ancient city of Thera (Thira), which sits high on Messavouno mountain. Here you can not only explore the fascinating ruins of the 8th century BC city, but you can also enjoy the far reaching views over the white rooftops of Kamari and out to sea. Take the bus from Kamari or brave the hike if you’re feeling energetic! Fortunately, there are two good beaches at the bottom of the hike at Kamari and Perissa – great for a cooling dip in the sea after your efforts!
Image via wikimedia
Sunset in Oia
Head to Oia hill to watch the sun setting over this colourful village’s famous blue domed churches. Golden hues stretch out across the darkening sky, reflected perfectly in the shimmering waters, to magical effect. Check the time of the sunset and book into one of the restaurants with a rooftop terrace – but beware that these fill up quickly, so you’ll want to reserve way in advance. Or head to the Byzantine Castle ruins for brilliant views across the bay or to the lighthouse in Akrotiri.
Image via wikimedia
Whitewashed Fira
From the hiking trails above Fira you have a mesmerising view over Santorini’s picturesque capital, a cliffside jumble of pristine whitewashed buildings and the pretty domes and turrets of it’s cathedrals and churches. As well as the gleaming rooftops of this unspoilt town, plus the bobbing boats in the little harbour beneath the cliffs, you also have fantastic vistas over the caldera and to the volcanic island.
Image by Arian Zwegers via flickr
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