A Romantic Escape to Santorini

Discovering Santorini's Soul: Pyrgos and Megalochori

Today was a day of venturing away from the caldera's edge and diving deeper into the heart of Santorini. Hans and I set out to explore the villages of Pyrgos and Megalochori, two places that promised a glimpse into the island's past and a taste of its authentic charm. It was a day filled with unexpected discoveries, stunning views, and a profound appreciation for the island's rich history and culture.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Blue Sky in Oia. This charming spot, tucked away from the bustling caldera, offered a peaceful start to our explorations. I savored a traditional Greek yogurt with honey and fresh fruit, while Hans enjoyed a hearty omelet. The friendly staff and cozy atmosphere made it a perfect way to fuel up for the day's adventures. The restaurant’s location, slightly removed from the main tourist drag, provided a sense of calm before we immersed ourselves in the day's itinerary.

With our appetites satisfied, we drove south towards Pyrgos, the island's former capital. As we ascended the winding roads, the landscape transformed, revealing a tapestry of vineyards and rolling hills. It was a refreshing change from the dramatic cliffs and endless blue of the caldera. Arriving in Pyrgos, we parked at the base of the village and began our climb towards the Pyrgos Kallistis Castle. The narrow, cobblestone streets were a maze of whitewashed houses, their walls adorned with vibrant bougainvillea. It felt like stepping back in time, each corner revealing a new and captivating detail.


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

The Pyrgos Kallistis Castle, built around 1580 by the Venetians, stands as a testament to Santorini's strategic importance throughout history. As we explored the castle ruins, I imagined what life must have been like within those fortified walls, with families seeking refuge from pirate raids and invaders. The views from the top were simply breathtaking, offering a panoramic vista of the entire island. From our vantage point, we could see the caldera stretching out to the west, the vineyards blanketing the plains below, and the neighboring islands shimmering in the distance. I even spotted the Monastery of Profitis Ilias perched atop the highest peak, a reminder of our adventures earlier in the week.

As we wandered through the castle, we discovered hidden churches and charming courtyards, each with its own unique story to tell. The Church of Agia Theodosia, near the entrance, was particularly striking, its simple yet elegant architecture a reflection of the island's deep-rooted faith. Hans, ever the engineer, was fascinated by the castle's defensive design, noting the strategic placement of the walls and the single fortified entrance. I was captivated by the thought of the underground tunnels that once served as secret escape routes, adding an element of mystery to the castle's already rich history. It was easy to see why Pyrgos was once considered the most beautiful village on the island, its charm and character still evident despite the passage of time.

Leaving Pyrgos, we made our way to Megalochori, another traditional village known for its picturesque churches and tranquil atmosphere. As we approached the village, we were immediately struck by its distinctive architecture, characterized by low, whitewashed houses with blue doors and narrow, stone-paved streets. Unlike the bustling tourist spots of Oia and Fira, Megalochori offered a sense of serenity and authenticity. We strolled through the village, admiring the numerous churches with their iconic bell towers. I was particularly drawn to the Megalochori Churches Viewpoint, a rooftop terrace that offered a panoramic view of the village's skyline. From this vantage point, we could see the Blessed Virgin Mary and Cosmas and Damian churches, their bell towers rising proudly above the rooftops. It was a truly stunning sight, a testament to the island's rich religious heritage.


Experience the breathtaking views of iconic churches and landscapes at Megalochori Churches Viewpoint, a serene spot in beautiful Santorini.

To truly experience Santorini, one must venture beyond the caldera's edge and immerse themselves in the island's hidden villages, where history and culture intertwine to create an unforgettable tapestry.

For lunch, we stopped at Feredini in Oia. Although it was a bit of a drive from Megalochori, I had read wonderful reviews and wanted to try it out. The food was delicious, and the views were incredible. I had a Greek salad, which was so fresh and flavorful. Hans enjoyed the moussaka and a glass of local wine. The service was friendly and attentive, and we felt welcomed and relaxed. It was a perfect spot for a midday meal.

In the late afternoon, we returned to Fira and decided to treat ourselves to cocktails at Aion Cocktail Bar & Bistro. This stylish bar offered a modern twist on traditional Greek hospitality, with expertly crafted cocktails and a vibrant atmosphere. I savored a refreshing Santorini Mule, while Hans opted for a classic Old Fashioned. As we sipped our drinks, we watched the sun dip below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of orange, pink, and purple. It was a magical moment, a perfect end to a day of exploration and discovery.

For dinner, we had reservations at Selene Restaurant in Fira. This renowned restaurant, with its Michelin-starred chef Ettore Botrini, promised an unforgettable culinary experience. As we entered the restaurant, we were immediately struck by its elegant and romantic ambiance. The courtyard, with its twinkling lights and gentle fountain, created a sense of intimacy and tranquility. We were greeted warmly by the staff and shown to our table, which offered a stunning view of the caldera.

The menu at Selene was a culinary masterpiece, showcasing the best of Santorini's local ingredients and traditional Greek flavors. We started with a selection of appetizers, including fava beans with dried scallop and lemon confit, and a Santorini garden salad with pickled vegetables and chloro cheese snow. Each dish was a work of art, both visually stunning and incredibly delicious. For our main courses, I chose the sea bass with fava risotto, while Hans opted for the piglet with orange comfit and apple puree. The flavors were complex and harmonious, a testament to Chef Botrini's skill and creativity. We savored every bite, marveling at the restaurant's ability to blend tradition and innovation.

To complement our meal, we selected a bottle of Hatzidakis Louros 2015, a barrel-fermented Assyrtiko that had considerable structure and complexity. The wine was the perfect accompaniment to our meal, enhancing the flavors of the food and adding to the overall dining experience. For dessert, we indulged in the chocolate cremeux with chocolate crumble, chocolate ganache, and yoghurt sorbet with lime, and the strawberry cremeux with strawberry tartare, strawberry sorbet, strawberry consommé, and meringue with chamomile. Both desserts were decadent and delightful, a sweet ending to an extraordinary meal.

As we walked back to our hotel, Serapias Suites, under the starlit sky, we reflected on the day's adventures. We had explored ancient castles, wandered through charming villages, savored local flavors, and witnessed breathtaking sunsets. It was a day that had touched our hearts and souls, reminding us of the beauty and richness of Santorini's culture and history. I am so grateful that we were able to experience the island in this way, and I know that these memories will stay with us forever.


Discover the charm of Santorini at Serapias Suites, where comfort meets convenience just minutes from stunning attractions and local culture.

Tomorrow, we're planning to immerse ourselves in Santorini's renowned wine culture with a tour at Santorini Wine Adventure Tours, followed by a visit to Venetsanos Winery. I'm particularly excited to learn more about the unique volcanic soil that gives Santorini wines their distinctive character. I’ve also heard that The Silk Shop has some wonderful items, so hopefully we can stop by and pick up some gifts for our friends and family back home.

Until then, kalinixta from Santorini!