Exploring the Enchanting Island of Santorini with Friends

Adieu, Santorini!

As the sun dips below the horizon, painting the caldera in hues of gold and rose, I find myself reflecting on our last day in Santorini. It’s hard to believe our adventure is coming to an end. This trip with friends has been nothing short of magical, filled with laughter, breathtaking views, and experiences that will forever be etched in my memory. Today was a perfect culmination of all that Santorini has to offer, blending adventure with moments of serene beauty.

The day began with a touch of equestrian elegance. After a hearty breakfast at For All Seasons Mansion, we set off for Santorini Horse Riding. I must admit, I was a little nervous at first. It’s been years since I last sat on a horse, and the thought of navigating the caldera trails was both thrilling and slightly daunting. But the staff at the stables were incredibly reassuring. They matched me with a gentle, well-trained horse, and after a brief refresher, I felt my confidence return.


Discover the enchanting landscapes of Santorini on horseback with unforgettable guided rides through stunning vistas and rich cultural heritage.

Riding through the countryside was an absolute joy. The landscape was a tapestry of vineyards, traditional villages, and dramatic volcanic formations. The air was filled with the scent of wildflowers and the distant sound of goat bells. It was a far cry from the bustling streets of Hong Kong or even the quieter suburbs of Stratford, Ontario. I felt a sense of peace and connection with nature that I rarely experience in my everyday life.

It is not down in any map; true places never are.

As we reached the caldera, the view was simply breathtaking. The Aegean Sea stretched out before us, shimmering in the morning sun, and the iconic white-washed villages clung to the cliffs like jewels. It was a moment of pure awe, made even more special by the gentle rhythm of my horse’s gait. My friends and I took countless photos, trying to capture the beauty, but of course, no image could truly do it justice. I know David would have loved this view, and I made a mental note to bring him here someday.

After our horseback adventure, we decided to explore Ammoudi Bay, a charming fishing village nestled at the foot of Oia. Getting there was an experience in itself. We opted to take a taxi down the winding road, rather than brave the 278 steps from Oia. I’m glad we did, as the midday sun was already quite intense. I made a mental note that I should have packed my hat! Upon arrival, Ammoudi Bay was a hive of activity, with fishing boats bobbing in the turquoise water and tavernas lining the shore. The air was filled with the tantalizing aroma of fresh seafood, and we were immediately drawn to Aktaion Restaurant, known for its traditional Greek dishes and stunning caldera views.


Discover the scenic beauty and culinary delights of Ammoudi Bay, a must-visit harbor in Oia, Santorini, with breathtaking views and fresh seafood.

We settled into a table right by the water’s edge and ordered a feast of grilled octopus, fried calamari, and a classic Greek salad. The food was incredibly fresh and flavorful, and the setting was simply idyllic. As we savored each bite, we watched the local fishermen mending their nets and the boats ferrying tourists to and from the nearby islands. It was a scene straight out of a postcard, and I felt grateful to be sharing it with such wonderful friends.

After lunch, we strolled along the bay, exploring the small shops and admiring the colorful buildings. We even considered taking a boat tour to the nearby hot springs, but decided to save that for another trip. Instead, we found a secluded spot to relax and soak up the sun. The sea was crystal clear, and a few of us braved a quick dip, despite the slightly chilly water. It was invigorating and refreshing, and a perfect way to end our time in Ammoudi Bay.

As the afternoon wore on, we made our way back to Fira, the capital of Santorini. To get there, we decided to take the Cable Car, a thrilling ride that ascends the steep cliffs from the Old Port. The views from the cable car were simply spectacular, offering a panoramic perspective of the caldera and the surrounding islands. It was a unique experience that I highly recommend to anyone visiting Santorini. The cable car is a great way to get up to Fira if you are arriving by cruise ship and want to explore the town without having to walk up the steep steps or ride a donkey.


Discover Santorini's breathtaking views on the Cable Car, a must-visit attraction offering stunning panoramas of the caldera and Aegean Sea.

Once in Fira, we wandered through the narrow streets, browsing the shops and soaking up the vibrant atmosphere. Fira is a bustling hub of activity, with countless restaurants, bars, and boutiques. It’s a great place to people-watch and get a sense of the island’s cosmopolitan vibe. As the sun began to set, we found a cozy spot at Santorini Mou, a charming tavern known for its live music and authentic Greek cuisine. The owner, Mihalis, greeted us warmly and led us to a table in the courtyard, which was adorned with colorful flowers and twinkling lights. The restaurant is located in Finikia, a small village outside of Oia, and is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and delicious food.


Experience authentic Greek flavors at Santorini Mou in Oia, where delicious cuisine meets stunning sunset views.

We ordered a selection of traditional dishes, including moussaka, souvlaki, and a variety of mezes. The food was delicious, and the atmosphere was lively and festive. Mihalis and his band played a mix of Greek folk songs and popular tunes, and soon everyone was singing and dancing along. It was a perfect way to celebrate our last night in Santorini.

As the evening drew to a close, we made our way back to For All Seasons Mansion, feeling tired but content. We gathered on the terrace, sipping local wine and reminiscing about our adventures. The sky was ablaze with stars, and the caldera was bathed in a soft, ethereal glow. It was a moment of quiet beauty, a perfect ending to a perfect day.

Before heading to bed, a few of us decided to check out Enigma Club Santorini for one last hurrah. The atmosphere was electric, with modern decor reminiscent of the Cycladic Islands. The music was a mix of mainstream summer tunes, perfect for dancing the night away. The staff were friendly, and the cocktails were expertly crafted. It was a fun way to end our trip, dancing until the early morning hours.


Experience the vibrant nightlife of Santorini at Enigma Club, where the rhythm of the night keeps you dancing until dawn.

Tomorrow, we leave this enchanting island, but the memories we’ve made here will last a lifetime. Santorini, you have captured my heart with your beauty, your charm, and your spirit. I hope to return someday soon, perhaps with David, to share this magical place with him. For now, adieu, and thank you for the memories.

As I prepare for my journey back to Canada, I am already thinking about how I can incorporate some of the lessons I have learned here into my daily life. Perhaps I will start taking Tai Chi in the park again, or try my hand at cooking some traditional Greek dishes. Whatever I do, I will always cherish the memories of this incredible trip to Santorini.

“We travel not to escape life, but for life not to escape us.” And Santorini, you’ve certainly ensured that life has not escaped me on this trip. I'm grateful for the experiences, the friendships, and the memories that I will carry with me always. Until next time, Santorini, farewell!

As our trip comes to an end, I can't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to explore this beautiful island with my friends. The memories we've made here will last a lifetime, and I know that we'll all cherish them for years to come. As I look forward to returning home to Stratford, I'm filled with a sense of peace and contentment, knowing that I've experienced something truly special.