Santorini Holiday
Located 100 kilometers north of Crete, the volcanic island of Santorini, officially known as Thira and the most southerly of the Cycladic group, explodes into the Aegean Sea. The violent volcanic activity that has rocked this island throughout its history manifests itself in a dramatic landscape and a stunning coastline.
"Sculpted by intense volcanic activity, Santorini plays host to a dramatic backdrop that is sure to enchant you."
Santorini Holiday - Beaches
The beaches here benefit from some outstanding scenery and you can choose between sheltered coves and long sandy stretches. One of the most popular beaches is Kamari, 10km from the capital Firá. If water sports are your thing Perissa is the place to go. Most beaches are well-organized offering the choice of sun loungers and umbrellas. It's worth noting that Santorini's black sandy beaches can become so hot during the summer so it's advisable to use a mat when relaxing out in the sunshine.
Shopping
Regional goods such as olives, cheeses, nougat and honey, dried herbs and ceramic pots are among the best buys. Small jewelry shops appear in every town selling intricate, handmade, gold and silver pieces. Fashionable art shops in Firá offer copies of the famous Akrotiri frescoes, a colorful reminder of your time in Santorini.
Nightlife
After a plate of traditional Greek dolmades in a local taverna, watch the sun erupt into a palette of reds, pinks and oranges as it sets beneath the glittering waters of the sea. From there on in, the choice is yours. Either relax in a quiet bar overlooking the moonlit ocean or perhaps head out to one of the lively clubs in the vibrant resorts of Perissa and Kamari.
The 'caldera' or crater that occupies the centre of the island is one of the world's most dramatic and spectacular geological sights. Some theories state that Santorini was once part of the fabled lost continent of Atlantis - a fact which has provided inspiration to great many artists and writers. The black shining pebbles, the bizarre-looking land formations and the black, white and red sands all form to create unforgettable scenery. Santorini is home to one of the world's most famous sunsets. As evening approaches couples head to the beautiful town of Oia to secure their own romantic candle-lit table and watch the brilliant sun sink beneath the shimmering Aegean Sea.
Local Specialties
Eating out is a way of life on Santorini. Specialties include fava (yellow split pea puree), taramosalata (a fish roe dip), plaki (a bean dish) and melitzanosalata (eggplant salad). Santorini is renowned for its wines, especially its rather sweet white wine, all of which can be sampled and enjoyed at local wineries such as the one just outside Megalochori. The volcanic soil, high daytime temperatures and night time humidity are ideal for creating a strong red wine which is appreciated around the world. There are thirty six different types of wine which are harvested at the end of August - a good time to visit the wine making areas to enjoy them.