A Family Adventure in Santorini: Sunsets, Culture, and Relaxation

A Final Toast to Santorini

As our Santorini adventure draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the incredible memories we’ve made. From exploring ancient ruins to savoring exquisite cuisine, this island has truly captured my heart. Today, our final day, was all about soaking in the last moments of Santorini’s magic, a perfect culmination of our family’s Grecian escapade.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Avra Santorini Restaurant in Tholos. The cozy terrace, overlooking lush gardens and the Aegean Sea, provided a serene start. Kati, always the early bird, was already snapping photos of the sunrise while Hans enjoyed a leisurely coffee. I indulged in their lobster pasta, a recommendation from a fellow diner, and it was simply divine. The staff were incredibly welcoming, making us feel right at home. It was the perfect spot to fuel up for our final day of exploration. I think I will try to replicate the Tacos I had at Avra back home in Leipzig, in an attempt to keep the memories alive.

With our bellies full and spirits high, we set off towards Sunset Oia, eager to witness the famed Santorini sunset from Sunset Oia. Of course, no visit to Santorini is complete without experiencing the sunset in Oia, but I was also keen to explore Ammoudi Bay, nestled just below Oia. I had heard so much about its charm and the delicious seafood tavernas that lined the waterfront.

We decided to drive, which gave us the freedom to stop and admire the views along the way. Parking near Oia can be a bit of a challenge, but we managed to find a spot and began our descent towards Ammoudi Bay. The path down to Ammoudi Bay offers two options: a steep staircase or a slightly longer winding road. We opted for the staircase, a series of wide steps that zig-zagged down the cliff face. The views were simply breathtaking, with the turquoise waters of the Aegean Sea stretching out before us and the iconic red cliffs of Santorini rising majestically on either side. Hans, ever the architect, was fascinated by the way the buildings seemed to cascade down the hillside, blending seamlessly with the natural landscape.

As we descended, we passed a few donkeys carrying supplies up and down the path. I couldn’t help but feel a pang of sympathy for the animals, but they seemed well-cared for and an integral part of the local culture. We made sure to watch our step, as the path was, as warned, dotted with donkey droppings! Kati, with her youthful energy, bounded ahead, eager to reach the bottom and explore the bay.

Finally, we arrived in Ammoudi Bay, a picturesque harbor dotted with colorful fishing boats and charming tavernas. The air was filled with the aroma of fresh seafood, and the sound of the waves lapping against the shore created a soothing ambiance. We strolled along the waterfront, admiring the views and soaking in the atmosphere. Ammoudi Bay certainly has a unique charm, a more intimate and authentic feel compared to the bustling streets of Oia above.

Sometimes, the most beautiful moments are the ones you least expect, found in the hidden corners of the world.

For lunch, we chose Ammoudi Fish Tavern, enticed by its reputation for serving the freshest seafood on the island. We snagged a table right by the water's edge, giving us unparalleled views of the bay. The service was exceptional, and the staff were eager to share their knowledge of the local cuisine. Hans, ever the adventurous one, insisted we try the grilled octopus, a local delicacy. Kati opted for the lobster risotto, while I chose the sea bass, grilled to perfection. Every dish was bursting with flavor, a testament to the freshness of the ingredients and the skill of the chefs.

After our satisfying lunch, we decided to explore a bit more of Ammoudi Bay. We learned that Armeni Bay, accessible by boat from Ammoudi, is a popular destination for swimming and cliff jumping. While we weren’t quite brave enough to try the cliff jumps ourselves, we enjoyed watching others take the plunge. The sun was warm, the sky was blue, and the atmosphere was simply idyllic.

As the afternoon wore on, we made our way back up to Oia, determined to secure a good spot for the sunset. We arrived early and found a perch overlooking the caldera. As the sun began its descent, the sky transformed into a canvas of vibrant colors – oranges, pinks, and purples blending seamlessly together. It was a truly breathtaking sight, one that I knew would stay with me long after we left Santorini. The crowds were thick, but the shared sense of awe and wonder created a special atmosphere. Kati, ever the romantic, held Hans’s hand tightly as they watched the sun dip below the horizon. The sunset in Oia is more than just a visual spectacle; it’s an experience, a moment of collective appreciation for the beauty of nature.

For our final dinner in Santorini, we chose Throubi Restaurant at Andronis Concept, enticed by its reputation for blending traditional Greek flavors with modern culinary techniques. The restaurant is nestled in Imerovigli village, offering breathtaking caldera views. The ambiance was elegant and welcoming, and the staff were attentive and passionate about their craft. I had read about the restaurant’s commitment to using fresh, local ingredients, and I was eager to experience it firsthand. Hans, Kati and I were not disappointed. From the creatively crafted cocktails to the expertly prepared dishes, every aspect of the meal was a delight. The seafood platter was a particular highlight, showcasing the freshest catches of the day. As we savored our meal, we reflected on the incredible experiences we had shared during our time in Santorini.

After dinner, we decided to have one last drink at Tango Champagne & Cocktail Bar in Fira. The bar is known for its panoramic views of the Aegean Sea and its extensive cocktail menu. The music was lively, the atmosphere was vibrant, and the drinks were delicious. It was the perfect way to end our Santorini adventure, with a toast to the memories we had made and the experiences we had shared. Ali Jumabhoy, a reviewer, mentioned that Tango starts to get lit around 11.30pm, but unfortunately we could not stay that long as we had to pack for our flight in the morning.

As I sit here now, writing this blog post, I can’t help but feel a sense of melancholy. Our time in Santorini has come to an end, but the memories we have made will last a lifetime. I'm already looking forward to returning someday, perhaps to explore more of the Greek islands. But for now, it’s time to say farewell to Santorini, a place that has captured my heart and soul. Tomorrow, we head back to Leipzig, filled with stories to tell and photographs to share. Though I miss my cozy routine of translating in my quiet corner of Leipzig, this trip has been a fantastic recharge.

Santorini, thank you for the memories. Until we meet again!