The Place With White Houses and Blue Roofs

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Santorini Sunset (Image Source: expresstime.gr), crowdink.com, crowdink.com.au, crowd ink, crowdink, travel, adventure, greece
Santorini Sunset (Image Source: expresstime.gr)

When somebody says Europe, Greece is one of the main places that comes to mind. With its large mainland and many islands to explore, this country is rich in culture and experience with many things for you to indulge in while you spend your time here.

One of the better known islands in Greece is Santorini. It is located in the southern Aegean Sea about 200 km southeast of Greece’s mainland surrounding the vast crater left by one of the biggest volcanic eruptions in history.

With white and blue architecture reflecting the sun and the sea, the cliffs appear to be multi-coloured as the buildings slowly descend the caldera (crater) and meet the ocean waves below.

Santorini is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Greece drawing crowds of 1.5 million people annually with tourists flocking at every season. With its reputation of coloured beaches, romantic sunsets and gorgeous panoramic views from every angle it’s not hard to see this magical island’s appeal.

The island is small, you can drive from one side to the other in a day, and it is well worth doing so if you want to discover all the hidden treasures it has to offer.

Fira is the island’s busy capital. It is here that the main city centre connects with other villages to host a town full of little markets and shops. Walking the intertwining cobblestoned streets exposes you to culture and local life as well as endless photo opportunities when you end up on the edge of the cliff looking over the Aegean Sea.

If you continue walking the path about 30 minutes out of Fira you will find yourself at the Imerovigli, the highest point of the caldera edge. The walk to this spot is lined with restaurants and hotels that will beckon you in to sit and watch the famous sunset disappear over the ocean.

The other popular village that is always hustling with activity is Oia, in Santorini’s north. Oia is similar to Fira however with less market style shops and more exclusive restaurants, hotels and boutiques. It is here that tourists flock over an hour early to get a prime position for the sunset, taking over pathways, bannisters, roofs and stairwells to catch a glimpse of one of the best sunsets in the world and applaud mother natures amazing creation.

Another spectacular sight that makes this island unique are the multi-coloured beaches that astonish tourists. Along the east coast, the beaches are lined with black sand whereas on the south, the dramatic Red Beach is a crowd favourite with its contrasting colours and vibrant persona.

Santorini is also known for its crisp dry white wines and its amber coloured dessert wine called Visanto. The island is scattered with vineyards which host tastings featuring local produce, food and amazing scenery, one of the most popular and well-known vineyards being Santo Wines.

A visit to this island is a lifelong dream for many as it delivers astonishing views, captivating culture and plenty to explore. It is here that holidaymakers fulfil their dreams whilst enjoying each other’s company and taking in all that Santorini has to offer.

If you have a chance to experience this part of Greece’s wonder, don’t miss the opportunity to become captivated in the unique one-of-a-kind lifestyle that has mesmerized many in its time.