Page 54 - ANDRONIS_2020

Lifestyle

Despite another catastrophic earthquake which occurred
in 1956 causing widespread destruction, Santorini’s many
villages continue to be spectacular. Oia, pronounced “Ia”,
is the most famous of all of Santorini’s villages, known for
its peace and tranquillity, fantastic sunsets and beauty.
Firostefani is a small village within walking distance from
Fira (the island’s capital replete with bars, shops, restaurants
and nightclubs) and is almost like a suburb to the capital
of Santorini, distinguished for its traditional architecture,
wonderful Caldera views and its tourism development.
Further along the edge of the Caldera, Imerovigli is like
an extension of Fira albeit situated on a higher cliff. Also
providing very romantic views, Imerovigli offers peace and
quiet as well as proximity to the hustle and bustle of Fira.
Akrotiri is a traditional village located next to the famous
Red Beach which hosts the most important archaeological
site on Santorini. Still unspoilt by mass tourism, Akrotiri
offers one of the most peaceful spots on the island. Other
traditional villages include Emporeio. Surrounded by vast
vineyards and old windmills, the village is distinguished
for its vivid Medieval character, its castle located on top
of a hill and elegant neoclassical mansions. Others such as
Messaria, Megalochori, Finikia, Mesa Gonia, Karterados,
Ammoudi and Vothanos offer visitors glimpses into quiet
traditional Greek village life.
Holidays in Santorini are the dream of a lifetime for many
people, with the island famous for its impressive Caldera,
volcano and romantic sunsets frequently included among The maze of narrow alleys will remind you
the best destinations in the world. Its popularity has gained of an M.C. Escher painting.
such momentum that over the last few years, the tourist
season has extended from early April to early November
meaning that visitors can enjoy all of the island’s attractions
for a longer period every year.
Apart from its traditional villages and awe inspiring views,
Santorini offers a multitude of attractions. The island’s
many wineries offer incredible wine tasting opportunities.
One such winery is the Artemis Karamolegos Winery
that combines a great respect for Santorini’s winemaking
traditions with a modern outlook and constant investment in
the vineyards and in wine-making equipment. Meanwhile,
the Minoan Site of Akrotiri, one of the most important
archaeological sites in Greece, provides an incredible insight
into the Minoan civilisation, as the town was covered by
volcanic ashes from the eruption of Thera, making for an
incredibly interesting visit. The volcano which lies in the
centre of the sunken Caldera is still active today and can be
accessed via boat tours from the old port of Fira which go to
the volcano and the hot springs while the famous Santorini
sunset can also be viewed from a boat. Then of course there
are the island’s beaches, including the famous Red, White
and Black Beaches providing cool respite from the summer
sun with their clear, cool waters, as well as the opportunity
to enjoy a multitude of exhilarating water sports. There
are also the island’s many tavernas serving the dishes that
wonderful Santorini has come to be so well known for. •

ANDRONIS • Magazine • 55