Exploring the Enchanting Island of Santorini with Friends

A Day of Discovery in Santorini

Today was a day of venturing beyond the well-trodden paths of Santorini and immersing myself in the island's authentic heart. It was a journey of flavors, history, and the simple joys of village life, a welcome change from the bustling tourist spots. I was eager to see what hidden corners this captivating island held, and it certainly didn't disappoint.

Our adventure began in Megalochori, a village seemingly untouched by time. As we wandered through its labyrinthine cobblestone streets, I felt like I was stepping back into Santorini's past. The village is known for its historical mansions and old traditional houses, remnants of a time when merchants and wealthy land barons thrived on the island's Vinsanto wine trade. The high walls and solid wooden doors of these homes whispered tales of privacy and protection against marauding pirates. It was fascinating to imagine the lives of those who once called these houses home, their days filled with the scent of grapes and the sounds of the Aegean wind.


Experience the enchanting village of Megalochori in Santorini, where traditional charm meets breathtaking landscapes and local wine delights.

Megalochori is indeed one of the most picturesque villages on the island. Dating back to the 17th century, it is full of Cycladic charm. We wandered past whitewashed buildings, narrow winding streets, and a peaceful atmosphere. The village seamlessly blends tranquility and history. It’s easy to get lost in the maze of winding cobbled streets and smooth-edged pathways, each turn revealing a new hidden gem.

The heart of Megalochori is its traditional square, a gathering place for locals to play cards or tavli (backgammon). We paused here for a moment, soaking in the unhurried pace of life, a stark contrast to the bustling tourist hubs of Oia and Fira. It was refreshing to witness the genuine connections between the villagers, their laughter echoing through the square.

The true essence of travel lies not just in seeing new sights, but in experiencing the soul of a place and connecting with its people.

Next on our itinerary was a visit to the Santorini Wine Museum. Now, I've been to wine tastings before, but this was a completely different experience. Housed within the Koutsogiannopoulos Winery, one of the oldest on the island, the museum took us on a journey through the history of winemaking in Santorini. Life-sized wax figures and old machinery depicted the process, from vine to bottle, offering a glimpse into the traditions passed down through generations. I found it particularly interesting to learn about the unique methods used to cultivate grapes in Santorini's volcanic soil. The island's vineyards are truly a sight to behold, the vines growing low to the ground in basket-like shapes to protect them from the strong winds and harsh sun.


Discover the rich heritage of Santorini's winemaking at the Santorini Wine Museum, where tradition meets taste in a captivating setting.

After the museum tour, we indulged in a wine tasting, sampling some of the winery's signature vintages. The Assyrtiko, with its crisp acidity and mineral notes, was a standout, perfectly reflecting the island's terroir. I learned that the volcanic soil imparts a unique character to the wines, giving them a distinct flavor profile that can't be found anywhere else in the world.

Following the Wine Museum, we headed to Gaia Wines, a winery known for its modern approach to winemaking. Located on the coast near Kamari, the winery is housed in a restored industrial stone building that once produced tomato paste. The setting was stunning, with views of the Aegean Sea stretching out before us. Here, we sampled a range of Gaia's wines, including their Assyrtiko Wild Ferment, a complex wine with citrus and floral notes.


Explore Gaia Wines in Cyprus: A captivating winery experience where tradition meets modernity amidst beautiful vineyards.

I found their Vinsanto particularly exquisite. It delivered a concentrated bouquet of dried fig, raisin, coffee, caramel, vanilla, and warm cinnamon spice. Despite its sweetness, the wine remained fresh, making it ideal for pairing with desserts or strong cheeses.

For lunch, we chose Aroma Avlis, a restaurant located in Exo Gonia, on the grounds of the Artemis Karamolegos Winery. The setting was beautiful, with a terrace overlooking the vineyards. The menu featured traditional Greek and Mediterranean dishes made with fresh, local ingredients. I decided on the fava dip, vine leaves and a pasta dish with eggplant. The restaurant also offers vegan options, which is always a plus. David would have loved the Skordomakarona, a huge portion of pasta with garlic sauce – perfect for sharing! The service was friendly and efficient, and the overall atmosphere was relaxed and inviting.


Discover the essence of Mediterranean cuisine at Aroma Avlis in Santorini - where every dish tells a story.

In the late afternoon, we explored the shops in Fira. We stopped by Spicy Boutique/The Lace, a charming clothing store known for its Greek-designed women's clothing and accessories. I was able to find a beautiful silk scarf, perfect for adding a touch of elegance to my wardrobe. I always enjoy supporting local designers and bringing home unique pieces that remind me of my travels.


Discover unique fashion and accessories at Spicy Boutique in Fira, Santorini - a shopping gem showcasing the island's elegant charm.

As the sun began to set, we made our way back to Fira, the sky ablaze with hues of orange and pink. The sunset in Santorini is truly a magical experience, and I felt grateful to have witnessed it once again. I thought of Emily and how much she would love to see the sunset. I made a mental note to bring her here someday.

Tonight, as I reflect on the day, I feel a sense of contentment. We experienced the Santorini beyond the postcards, beyond the crowded viewpoints and bustling streets. We discovered the island's hidden gems, its authentic flavors, and the warmth of its people. It was a day of simple pleasures, a reminder that the most memorable travel experiences are often found in the unexpected corners of the world.

Tomorrow, we plan to delve deeper into Santorini's history and culture, with visits to the Santorini Arts Factory, the Lost Atlantis Experience - Interactive Museum, and the Tomato Industrial Museum, D. Nomikos. I'm also hoping we can find time to relax at Tropical Bar. For dinner, La Colline restaurant Santorini and Theofanis food experience are on the list. It promises to be another day filled with discovery and adventure, and I can't wait to see what Santorini has in store for us.

I am glad that I remembered to pack my comfortable walking shoes, but I wish I hadn’t forgotten my hat. The sun can be quite intense, even in May. I am also looking forward to seeing David again and sharing all these experiences with him. Even though I love traveling with my friends, there's something special about exploring new places with my husband.

It's moments like these that make travel so rewarding, reminding me why I embarked on this journey in the first place. It's not just about seeing new places, but about opening my heart and mind to new experiences, new cultures, and new connections. And as I drift off to sleep tonight, I'm filled with anticipation for all the adventures that lie ahead.