Exploring the Enchanting Island of Santorini with Friends

Whispers of the Past, Flavors of the Present

Today was a beautiful blend of history, breathtaking views, and, of course, the incredible flavors of Santorini. It's days like these that remind me why I love to travel – to connect with the past while savoring the present. I was particularly excited about exploring some of the less-trodden paths and hidden gems around Imerovigli.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at For All Seasons Mansion. David and I enjoyed some Greek yogurt with local honey – a simple yet perfect start to fuel our adventures.


Discover the charm of For All Seasons Mansion in Fira, Santorini. Enjoy cozy accommodations, exclusive amenities, and easy access to iconic sights.

Soon after, my friends and I set out to explore Skaros Rock. The walk from Imerovigli to Skaros Rock was simply breathtaking. The village itself is a photographer's dream, clinging to the caldera cliffs with its whitewashed houses and blue-domed churches. As we walked, the views of the Aegean Sea were simply stunning, the deep blue waters stretching out to the horizon.


Explore Skaros Rock in Imerovigli, Santorini - a stunning natural fortress with breathtaking views and rich history, perfect for every adventurous traveler.

The path down to Skaros Rock was quite steep, a winding staircase that tested our knees but rewarded us with ever more dramatic views. I made sure to wear my comfortable walking shoes, a decision I was very grateful for! The air was fresh and filled with the scent of wildflowers, a welcome change from the city back home. I even spotted some vibrant poppies along the way, adding a splash of color to the already stunning landscape. The sun was warm but not scorching, perfect for a day of hiking.

As we descended, we passed the iconic Chapel of Panagia Theoskepasti. Perched on the edge of the cliff, it looked like something out of a postcard. The little church, with its whitewashed walls and blue dome, seemed to be guarding the secrets of the island. I couldn't resist snapping a few photos, trying to capture its serene beauty against the backdrop of the Aegean Sea.

Reaching Skaros Rock itself was like stepping back in time. It was amazing to think that this imposing rock formation was once the site of a thriving medieval fortress, the capital of Santorini under Venetian rule. I could almost hear the echoes of the past – the bustling marketplace, the soldiers guarding the walls, the church bells ringing out across the island. Though little remains of the fortress today, the sheer presence of the rock, shaped over millennia by volcanic eruptions and earthquakes, was awe-inspiring. We spent a good hour exploring the ruins, imagining what life must have been like centuries ago.

To travel is to take a journey into yourself.

The hike around Skaros Rock was moderately challenging, with a mix of concrete steps and gravel paths. I wouldn't recommend it for those with mobility issues, but for anyone with a reasonable level of fitness, it's definitely worth the effort. The views from every angle were simply incredible – the caldera stretching out before us, the volcanic islands in the distance, and the charming villages clinging to the cliffs. It's easy to see why Santorini is considered one of the most beautiful islands in the world.

After our historical adventure, it was time to treat ourselves to some of Santorini's culinary delights. For lunch, we decided to try Avocado, a restaurant in Imerovigli known for its Mediterranean cuisine and organic ingredients. The restaurant had a cozy and casual atmosphere, with both indoor and outdoor seating.


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

Though the caldera view wasn't directly visible from the tables, the changing colors of the sky at sunset could be seen from the patio. I ordered the marinated anchovies and a deconstructed spinach pie salad, while my friends opted for the grilled burger and seafood pasta. Every dish was a burst of fresh, local flavors. The staff was incredibly friendly and attentive, making us feel right at home.

Later in the afternoon, we strolled through Imerovigli, exploring the charming shops and soaking up the atmosphere. I couldn't resist popping into Santorini Folk Art Traditional Shop, a treasure trove of local crafts and souvenirs.


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

I ended up buying a beautiful hand-painted ceramic bowl, a perfect reminder of our trip. I was looking for a power adapter, since I had forgotten mine, but they didn't have one.

As evening approached, we decided to indulge in a truly special dining experience. We had made reservations at Kapari Wine Restaurant, known for its exceptional views and exquisite cuisine.


Discover exceptional local cuisine and breathtaking views at Kapari Wine Restaurant in Imerovigli, Santorini.

The restaurant is located in the upscale village of Imerovigli, overlooking the Caldera Cliffs and the deep blue of the Aegean Sea. We were seated in their beautiful courtyard, which had an atrium. I decided to go for the 9 course menu. The shrimp roll was incredible! The passionate bartenders were experimenting with indescribable cocktails while we enjoyed the view from the terrace. The sunset was dramatic, blending the colors of the sky with the shades of the blue sea.

Alternatively, we could have gone to The Athenian House, known for its stunning sunset views and creative Greek cuisine.


Discover exceptional Greek cuisine at The Athenian House in Imerovigli with stunning caldera views and elegant ambiance.

The small interior of the restaurant is an original Santorini cave house, with Athenian vintage styling. The menu is inspired by local cuisine and created by world-acclaimed Greek chefs. Outside, the dining area is a large multi-tiered patio in the heart of Imerovigli. The restaurant features one of the largest vintage collections of Santorini wines, with rare bottles from the island's most renown wineries. It also has fabulous cocktails. I've heard the service is spectacular.

As the day drew to a close, we reflected on our incredible experiences. From the ancient echoes of Skaros Rock to the vibrant flavors of Santorini's cuisine, every moment was a feast for the senses. Imerovigli, with its stunning views and charming atmosphere, had captured our hearts.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Nea Kameni and the Santorini caldera, and visit the Santorini Old Harbor. I'm particularly excited about taking a boat trip to the volcanic islands and learning more about the geological history of this fascinating place. I'm also looking forward to enjoying a relaxing evening at Kira Thira Jazz Bar.

As I sit here now, writing this blog post, I feel a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunity to experience the beauty and history of Santorini. It's a place that truly nourishes the soul, and I can't wait to see what adventures tomorrow will bring. I'm so glad I got to share it with my friends.

I did miss having a hat today, since I forgot to pack one. The sun was strong, and I could feel my skin getting a little too warm. I'll definitely make sure to buy one tomorrow!

Even though I'm travelling with friends, I do miss David and Emily. I'm looking forward to sharing all my stories and photos with them when I get back home. Perhaps one day, we can all come back to Santorini together.

I'm also reminded of my Cantonese translation work. The act of translating, of bridging cultures through language, feels very similar to what I experience when traveling. It's about understanding different perspectives, appreciating unique histories, and finding common ground. In a way, my blog is another form of translation, sharing my experiences and insights with a wider audience, hoping to inspire others to explore the world and connect with different cultures.

Until tomorrow, xin chào from Santorini!