“I had a weird dream last night. I saw that I was leisurely eating my breakfast on the cliffs of Oia while enjoying the balcony view of the caldera, strolling down the stone alleyways of Imerovigli, watching the sunset at Firostefani with a cold glass of Assyrtiko wine in my company, smoking an Arturo Fuente cigar after dinner inebriated by the sweet sips of Vinsanto, ascending the stairway from the old port on a donkey and while capturing images on my camera the volcano started venting fumaroles with a growling sound coming from within its innards at Thera when I suddenly woke up…Santorini, a beautiful dream…

Photo: Imerovigli

3 Days In Santorini

We found a traditional, cosy and affordable refuge in the region of Oia– a very popular and populous spot with the best views of the caldera and the famous sunset. Strogili- as the area was also once called- offers greek hospitality and comfort on its well organized premises. Located at the entrance of the small town, it’s approachable by car, with a private parking lot right across the street. Renting a car in Santorini is essential and practical in order to make the best of your trip. Nothing should be missed and the distances are a bit deceiving to the eye. This is the easiest driving experience you’ll have. The small private rooms hanging from the cliff are the trademark accommodation on the island. Breakfast and swimming pool included in the price, I think we hit the jack pot with our last minute booking.

I concede to the fact that my words might echo as mundane by reiterating that this is a once in a lifetime experience to anyone who wishes to find shelter in this heavenly destination. Taking the marble pathway at Oia to see the sunset and then off to dinner. Commonly crowded in the summer- the peak of the season- if you prefer a less noisy  and pushy visit you could opt for one in the fall or spring when the area is less dense. You will also find lower prices and capturing sunset views not so out of reach. Little souvenir shops, art galleries, jewelry stores and restaurants erected alternately on the sidewalk. Ammoudi tavern hosted our evening feast with fresh fish and vegetables, our table  literally propped up by the sea. One wrong move to the left and you’ll be floating with your chair on the surface of the water. Very pleasant and welcome, this little niche offers quality and early bookings. How to get there. Now we took the unorthodox path down the stairs from the top which is an exciting experience given that you wear comfortable shoes. “Yes,I know…I did it again. I just love wedges.” The tavern is located at sea level, so you have to start descending.  Second option; you can drive which might be wiser considering stair climbing again after the food consumption. We enjoyed a little night walk along the harbor on a full moon which was rewarding; made me forget all those stairs!

The early morning ride led us to the Fortress of Ancient Thera, a long curvy road, ideal to visit when the sun is still preparing to throw its warm light rays on the cool soil. Santorini’s archaeological sights are known as the Pompeii of the Aegean. Dwellers of this area come from a long time ago, one of the oldest civilizations to inhabit Greece, estimated at about 3.600 BC. Parts of this area include the Agora, the theatre and the Sanctuary of Artemis. Then on our way to discover and taste the island’s finest wines at Argyros winery. Indulge in a wine tasting ceremony, Atlantis, Assyrtiko and Vinsanto one by one you will fall for their compelling aroma.

From vineyards and sacred ancient temples off to the Akrotiri Archaeological site. Our guide was waiting for us holding our tickets. Let’s start! Now you can either have a guided tour like us which will cost you about 100 euros or you can just explore on your own. My opinion is that for this site the knowledge that we accumulated was invaluable. I don’t think you can find all those details in a single source. The reconstruction of the area is funded by greek subsidiaries, capped with a wooden roof to protect you from the high temperatures you can spend an hour here for a full tour. Excavations brought to light precious ancient artifacts and an advanced building construction and sewer system. Rooms devoted for their religious rituals and others used as storerooms for food and everyday objects.

A stop for coffee at a random cafeteria and back to our accommodation to recharge our batteries for the evening walk at Firostefani. The views are stunning, they will marvel you every step of the way. Can I stay here forever? A short stop to catch another sunset from another angle of the island. Wander around and make sure to pick the best and most rewarding spot.

Another night of sin, this time at the Oriental restaurant of the luxury hotel Katikies. Usually booked for its residents, I managed to make a reservation through a friend.

The next day was more adventurous and exciting. A sailing tour awaited and the day was full until 4 pm. Seeing the steep beaches on board was actually more relaxing. Enjoying the sun, food and of course the wine, we would pass by the Red and the White Coasts. You can reach these areas by car as well but piling up a bunch of activities for such a short stay was exhausting and we wouldn’t chance to miss anything.

Imerovigli is another village on the north side of Santorini with more breathtaking views. It feels as if my narrative is redundant. The images speak for themselves and the only words that really matter are ‘You must visit Sanatorini!’ Enjoy!

PS: Don’t forget the donkey ride…