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

A Day of Discovery in Pyrgos

As I sit here, the gentle Santorini breeze whispers through the open window, carrying the scent of blooming jasmine and the distant echo of laughter. Today marked our first full day on this enchanting island, and what a day it was! Leaving behind the familiar comfort of Leipzig, trading it for the sun-kissed shores of Greece, was a decision we made as a family and I couldn't be happier about it.

Our adventure began in Pyrgos, a village that immediately captured my heart with its authentic charm and breathtaking views. After a slightly chaotic journey from Leipzig to Athens and then finally to Santorini, I was so glad we made it to our accommodation, Afoura Houses by K&K, which is located in Pyrgos. It’s such a lovely and quiet place, the perfect base for our family adventure.


Discover the charm of Santorini at Afoura Houses by K&K, a cozy cottage offering comfort, convenience, and breathtaking views in Pyrgos.

Before diving into our itinerary, I must confess to a slight packing mishap. In my eagerness, I completely forgot to pack a power adapter for Greece. Thankfully, Hans, ever the resourceful one, managed to find a universal adapter at the airport, saving the day and ensuring my camera and phone would stay charged for all the photos I planned to take. I also realized I forgot a light jacket, but the weather is so lovely, I don't think I'll need it.

Our first stop was breakfast at Metaxi Mas. What a delightful way to start the day! The restaurant was bustling with locals and tourists alike, all eager to sample the traditional Greek fare. I opted for the classic yogurt with honey and walnuts, while Hans enjoyed a hearty omelet. Kati, ever the adventurous one, tried the local specialty, tomato fritters, and declared them delicious. It was a perfect start to our culinary journey.

With our bellies full and spirits high, we set off to explore the village. Pyrgos is a maze of narrow, winding streets, each corner revealing a new surprise. Whitewashed houses with vibrant blue doors and windows clung to the hillside, creating a picturesque scene that seemed straight out of a postcard. Bougainvillea cascaded down walls, adding splashes of color to the monochrome landscape. As we wandered, I couldn't help but feel a sense of peace and tranquility wash over me. It was a far cry from the hustle and bustle of Leipzig, and I welcomed the change.

Our main destination was the Pyrgos Kallistis Castle, perched atop the village. The climb was a bit steep, but the views from the top were well worth the effort. From our vantage point, we could see the entire island stretching out before us, the Aegean Sea shimmering in the distance. The castle itself was a fascinating glimpse into Santorini's history, its ancient walls whispering tales of Venetian rule and pirate raids. I tried to imagine what life must have been like here centuries ago, the villagers seeking refuge within these walls, their lives dictated by the ebb and flow of the sea.


Discover the historical allure and breathtaking views of Pyrgos Kallistis Castle, a hidden gem in Santorini's enchanting landscape.

Sometimes, the most beautiful discoveries are found not in grand monuments, but in the quiet corners of a hidden village.

After soaking in the views and history, we descended back into the village and stumbled upon the Santorini Folk Art Traditional Shop. As someone who appreciates craftsmanship and unique souvenirs, I was immediately drawn inside. The shop was a treasure trove of handmade ceramics, intricate jewelry, and colorful textiles, each piece reflecting the island's artistic traditions. I purchased a beautiful hand-painted ceramic plate, a memento of our first day in Santorini, while Kati found a charming bracelet adorned with tiny blue beads. Hans, ever practical, opted for a traditional Greek fisherman's hat, much to Kati's amusement.


Explore the Santorini Folk Art Traditional Shop for unique handcrafted gifts that embody the island's rich cultural heritage and artistry.

Lunch was at Pyrgos Restaurant, a charming establishment recommended by several locals. We sat on the terrace, enjoying the panoramic views while savoring the delicious Greek cuisine. I opted for the moussaka, a classic dish of layered eggplant, potatoes, and meat sauce, while Hans enjoyed the fresh grilled fish. Kati, still craving more local flavors, ordered the fava, a creamy dip made from yellow split peas. It was all incredibly delicious, and we left feeling satisfied and content.


Discover authentic Greek flavors at Pyrgos Restaurant in Santorini – where exquisite cuisine meets stunning views.

After lunch, we continued our exploration of Pyrgos, discovering hidden churches, quaint cafes, and friendly locals. We even stumbled upon a small art gallery showcasing the works of local artists. I was particularly drawn to a series of paintings depicting the island's landscapes, their vibrant colors capturing the essence of Santorini's beauty. It reminded me of my own passion for photography and the desire to capture the essence of a place through images.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to Cava Alta for dinner. This cozy restaurant, tucked away in a quiet corner of the village, offered a more intimate dining experience. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, the perfect setting for a relaxing evening meal. We savored the delicious food, shared stories of our day's adventures, and laughed together as a family. It was a moment I knew I would cherish forever.


Experience authentic Mediterranean cuisine at Cava Alta in Pyrgos Kallistis, where every dish tells a story of tradition and flavor.

I thought about my life back in Leipzig, my translation work, my hobbies of hiking and visiting local markets. I felt a pang of longing for the familiar comforts of home, but it was quickly replaced by a sense of excitement for the adventures that lay ahead. This trip was an opportunity to create new memories, to experience new cultures, and to strengthen the bonds of family.

As the sun began to set, casting a golden glow over the island, we found a quiet spot to watch the spectacle unfold. The sky transformed into a canvas of vibrant colors, from fiery oranges and reds to soft pinks and purples. It was a breathtaking sight, one that reminded me of the beauty and wonder of the world around us. We sat in comfortable silence, simply enjoying each other's company and the magic of the moment.

Reflecting on our first day in Santorini, I am filled with a sense of gratitude and excitement. Pyrgos has welcomed us with open arms, offering a glimpse into the island's authentic charm and rich history. From exploring ancient castles to savoring local cuisine, we have already created memories that will last a lifetime. And as I look ahead to tomorrow, I am eager to discover more of what this enchanting island has to offer. We plan to visit Ancient Thera and relax on the shores of Kamari Beach. Perhaps we'll even indulge in a cocktail at PK Cocktail Bar.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Ancient Thera and Kamari Beach. Ancient Thera sounds fascinating, and I know Hans will enjoy the historical aspect of it. Kati is looking forward to spending some time at Kamari Beach, soaking up the sun and swimming in the Aegean Sea. I'm excited to capture the beauty of both locations through my lens, preserving these memories for years to come. And perhaps in the evening, we'll find a cozy spot to enjoy a cocktail and watch the sunset, continuing our culinary exploration of Santorini.

As I drift off to sleep tonight, I am filled with a sense of anticipation for the days ahead. Santorini has already cast its spell on me, and I know that this family adventure will be one for the books. Goodnight from Pyrgos, and stay tuned for more tales from this enchanting island!

P.S. I almost forgot to mention that I read somewhere that there might be a Salsa Spring Festival happening here this month. I'll have to look into that; perhaps we can add some Latin rhythms to our Greek adventure!

Additionally, I'm curious about the local festivals. I read that religious feasts are celebrated with enthusiasm in Santorini. It would be wonderful to witness one of these events and experience the island's cultural traditions firsthand. I'll keep an eye out for any celebrations happening during our stay.

I also learned that Pyrgos hosts an Arts and Crafts Fair in May. While I don't think it's happening right now, it sounds like a wonderful event to support local artists and discover unique treasures. Perhaps we can visit some of the local art galleries instead, like the ones I read about in Fira and Oia. I'm always eager to explore the artistic side of a place and bring home a piece of its creative spirit.

Finally, I stumbled upon information about the Pyrgos Wine Festival, which takes place in September. While we won't be here for that, it sounds like a fantastic celebration of the region's viticultural heritage. I'm definitely planning to sample some of the local wines during our stay and learn more about the winemaking process. Santorini's volcanic soil is said to produce unique and flavorful wines, and I'm excited to experience them for myself.