Exploring the Enchanting Island of Santorini with My Wife

Santorini's Stunning Caldera: A Hiker's Dream

Today was nothing short of spectacular! Greta and I embarked on what I can only describe as one of the most visually stunning hikes of my life: the trek from Fira to Oia. It was a day filled with sunshine, breathtaking views, and a few unexpected surprises. Let me tell you all about it.



Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Avocado in Imerovigli. I had heard so much about this place, and it certainly lived up to the hype. The restaurant was charming, offering authentic Mediterranean cuisine with fresh, local ingredients. I opted for a traditional Greek yogurt with honey and nuts, while Greta enjoyed a spinach pie. Fuelled up, we set off towards Fira, the starting point of our much-anticipated hike. It’s funny, I almost forgot my adapter this morning to charge my camera! Luckily, Greta reminded me, and I’m glad she did, as I took many photos today.


Discover culinary excellence at Avocado in Imerovigli - where Mediterranean flavors meet stunning sea views.

The Fira to Oia walk is legendary, and now I understand why. As we started our ascent, the views of the caldera unfolded before us like a living painting. The bright blue Aegean Sea contrasted against the stark white buildings clinging to the cliffs – it was a photographer's dream. The trail itself was a mix of paved paths, cobblestone streets, and dirt tracks, which added a bit of adventure to the journey. I was glad I had packed my comfortable walking shoes, a travel essential I always recommend.



We took our time, stopping frequently to soak in the scenery and snap photos. I couldn't resist capturing every angle of the caldera, the volcanic cliffs, and the charming villages we passed through. It's amazing to think that this island was once devastated by a volcanic eruption thousands of years ago, and now it's one of the most beautiful places on earth. I tried to imagine what it was like back then, but the beauty of the landscape kept distracting me. Greta was in her element, pointing out different geological formations and sharing interesting facts about the island's history. Her librarian skills always come in handy!



The hike itself wasn't too strenuous, but the midday sun definitely made it challenging. I was grateful for the light jacket I had packed, as the wind picked up as we gained altitude. We passed through the villages of Firostefani and Imerovigli, each with its unique charm. Firostefani offered stunning panoramic views, while Imerovigli, known as the Balcony to the Aegean, provided a more tranquil atmosphere. We even spotted Skaros Rock in the distance, which we plan to explore tomorrow.

Sometimes, the most rewarding experiences are the ones that require a little effort, a little sweat, and a whole lot of appreciation for the beauty around us.

Around lunchtime, we found ourselves in a small village and decided to stop for a bite at Raki Restaurant. It was an authentic Santorinian restaurant in the picturesque square of Megalochori village. We enjoyed some traditional Greek food. Greta had the souvlaki, while I opted for the tomato fritters, a local specialty. Of course, we had to try the local raki, which was surprisingly refreshing.


Experience authentic Greek cuisine at Raki in Megalochori, Santorini – where tradition meets flavor in every dish.

After lunch, we continued our hike towards Oia. The landscape became even more dramatic as we approached the northern tip of the island. The path wound its way along the cliff edge, offering unparalleled views of the Aegean Sea. We passed by several small churches, each with its iconic blue dome and whitewashed walls. I couldn't help but feel a sense of peace and tranquility as we walked along the trail.


Discover the enchanting beauty of Oia, Santorini, filled with stunning sunsets, charming architecture, and vibrant local culture.

Finally, after several hours of hiking, we arrived in Oia. The village was even more beautiful than I had imagined. Whitewashed houses cascaded down the hillside, creating a stunning visual spectacle. We wandered through the narrow streets, admiring the unique architecture and soaking in the vibrant atmosphere. Oia is famous for its sunsets, so we found a spot overlooking the caldera and waited for the show to begin.



As the sun began to dip below the horizon, the sky transformed into a kaleidoscope of colors. Hues of orange, pink, and purple painted the clouds, creating a truly magical scene. It was one of those moments that takes your breath away and makes you feel grateful to be alive. I wrapped my arm around Greta, and we watched in silence as the sun disappeared into the sea. It was the perfect end to an unforgettable day.



After the sunset, we decided to treat ourselves to a special dinner at Lycabettus Restaurant. Perched on the edge of a cliff in Oia, Lycabettus is renowned as one of the most beautiful dining spots in Santorini. The panoramic views of the Aegean Sea were simply breathtaking. I decided to try one of the tasting menus, and Greta opted for the seafood pasta. Each dish was a work of art, and the flavors were exquisite. It was the perfect way to celebrate our day of hiking and exploration.


Experience exquisite Greek and Mediterranean cuisine at Lycabettus Restaurant with breathtaking views in Oia.

To cap off our perfect day, we headed to Kira Thira Jazz Bar in Fira. I’ve always had a soft spot for jazz, so I was keen to check this place out. The bar was cozy and intimate, with live music and a relaxed atmosphere. We sat back, sipped on some local wine, and enjoyed the smooth sounds of the band. It was the perfect way to unwind after a long day of hiking.


Experience the vibrant nightlife of Fira at Kira Thira Jazz Bar, where live jazz music meets exquisite cocktails and stunning views.

As I sit here writing this, I can't help but feel a sense of contentment. Today was a reminder of why I love to travel – to experience new cultures, to see breathtaking landscapes, and to create lasting memories with the people I love. Santorini has certainly captured my heart, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings. Tomorrow, we plan to explore Skaros Rock and Imerovigli, continuing our exploration of this enchanting island.



I’m also glad that Santorini seems to be returning to normal after the recent seismic activity. It’s good to see tourists coming back and businesses thriving. It makes me hopeful for the future of this beautiful island.