A Romantic Escape to Santorini

A Day of Exploration and Indulgence

Today was a day of discovery, both historical and culinary, in the beautiful village of Imerovigli. I always find such joy in exploring new places, especially when I can share the experience with Hans. It's days like these that remind me why we decided to embark on this romantic escape to Santorini.


Discover the enchanting beauty of Imerovigli, Santorini, where stunning sunsets, breathtaking views, and charming architecture await every traveler.

Our morning began with a delightful breakfast at Kokkalo. The fresh pastries and aromatic coffee were the perfect start to fuel our adventures. It’s wonderful how a simple meal can set the tone for the entire day. I remember back in Khmelnytskyi, Ukraine, where I grew up, mornings always started with my grandmother’s homemade bread and fresh milk. It’s these small traditions that stay with you, no matter where life takes you.


Experience authentic Greek flavors at Kokkalo in Fira, Santorini - where tradition meets culinary excellence.

With our bellies full and spirits high, we set out to explore Skaros Rock. The hike down the winding staircase from Imerovigli was invigorating, the sea breeze carrying the scent of wildflowers. The path, though a bit challenging, offered breathtaking views of the caldera. I felt a sense of awe as we walked along the gravel path, imagining the history beneath our feet. Skaros Rock, once a bustling fortress, now stands as a testament to the resilience of time and nature. It's hard to believe that in the 13th century, this was the largest settlement in Santorini, a strategic point to defend against pirate raids.


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

The beauty of Santorini lies not only in its landscapes but also in the stories etched into its ancient stones.

As we explored the ruins, Hans, ever the engineer, was fascinated by the remnants of the old fortress. He marveled at how the inhabitants managed to build such a complex structure on this rugged terrain. I, on the other hand, was captivated by the serene Chapel of Panagia Theoskepasti, clinging to the cliff edge. Its whitewashed walls stood in stark contrast to the deep blue sea, a peaceful sanctuary amidst the wild landscape. The hike took us about an hour roundtrip, and though my legs were a bit tired, the views were more than worth the effort. Imerovigli itself is such a romantic village. Perched high on the caldera cliff, it offered unparalleled views of the Aegean Sea and the volcanic islands. The narrow paths and whitewashed houses created a sense of tranquility, a welcome escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

After our historical exploration, it was time to indulge in more of Santorini's culinary offerings. We headed to Lycabettus Restaurant for lunch, a decision I made based on recommendations that it offers a unique fine dining experience with exquisite food and presentation. The restaurant is situated at the Andronis Luxury Suites hotel in Oia, offering locally sourced meals in an elegant setting with a breathtaking view of the sea. The view from the cliffside location was indeed breathtaking, and the meal was nothing short of spectacular. Each course was perfectly portioned with intricate flavors and balance. Dining at Lycabettus felt like a truly special occasion, one that Hans and I will cherish for years to come.


Experience exquisite Greek and Mediterranean cuisine at Lycabettus Restaurant with breathtaking views in Oia.

In the evening, we ventured back to Imerovigli for dinner at The Athenian House. This restaurant is known for its traditional Greek gourmet delicacies and its stunning views of Skaros Rock. The ambiance was romantic, with a touch of luxury, created by its elegant decoration. I chose the vegan tasting menu, and Hans opted for the seafood selection. Every dish was a culinary masterpiece, bursting with fresh, local ingredients. The service was impeccable, and the staff made us feel incredibly welcome. As we savored our meal, we watched the sunset paint the sky in hues of orange and pink, a perfect ending to a perfect day.


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

To cap off the evening, we decided to experience some of Santorini's nightlife. We found ourselves at Kira Thira Jazz Bar in Fira. I must admit, I wasn't sure what to expect, as I'm more accustomed to the quiet evenings in Leipzig. However, the bar had a cozy and casual atmosphere with fantastic sangria and strong mixed drinks. The mellow lighting and fine wine provided the perfect setting for an assortment of classic and acid jazz, Latin, and African, and the DJ kept our ears riveted to the speakers all through the night with one foot tapping hit after the other. As the oldest bar in Santorini, it had a certain charm that was hard to resist. We relaxed with a glass of wine, enjoying the smooth jazz and the lively atmosphere. It was a delightful way to unwind after a day of hiking and fine dining.


Experience the vibrant nightlife of Fira at Kira Thira Jazz Bar, where live jazz music meets exquisite cocktails and stunning views.

As I reflect on today's adventures, I am filled with gratitude for this opportunity to explore Santorini with Hans. From the historical wonders of Skaros Rock to the culinary delights of Imerovigli, every moment has been a treasure. Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Red Beach and the Akrotiri Lighthouse. I’m also looking forward to visiting The Traditional Cave Souvenirs shop. Until then, I bid you goodnight from this beautiful island, where every sunset is a promise of new adventures.

I'm so glad Hans and I decided to pack light jackets for the evenings; the Santorini nights can get a bit chilly, especially by the caldera. It's little things like that that make a trip truly comfortable. Though I did forget my power adapter, thankfully Hans remembered his, so we can keep our cameras charged for all the stunning views. It's always a team effort when we travel!