Destination Santorini

Santorini, The Charming Princess of the Aegean

Santorini casts a breathtaking charm, offering an unparalleled blend of dramatic landscapes, captivating sunsets, and the allure of an active volcano. 

With its distinctive sugar cube houses wonderfully sprinkled against the volcanic cliffs and above the shimmering Aegean Sea, the island is a visual feast that speaks to the heart of the wandering spirits. Each winding path unveils a new aspect of its charm, with the tranquil villages, vibrant history, and scenic beaches creating a rich panorama to delve into.

As day turns to evening, Santorini transforms into a spectacle of otherworldly beauty. The sun casts its magnificent, scarlet and golden hues across the sky, painting the island and sea in a surreal glow that echoes the allure of its mythical past, evoking the legend of the Lost Atlantis. 

A mere heartbeat from Oia, the Santo Collection offers secluded luxury, in- keeping with the Santorini aesthetic, dotted by the quintessential whitewashed houses and bathed in the ethereal glow of the sunsets.

Approximately 3,700 years ago, a massive volcanic eruption gave Santorini its unique form. It dramatically shaped the main body of Thera, leaving behind the iconic Caldera. This natural marvel, resembling a crescent of steep cliffs floating in the shimmering Aegean sea, adds an majestic form to Santorini’s silhouette.

Visitors can delve into the Caldera’s towering hills from the deck of a yacht or a catamaran, or explore its majestic terrain on foot or swim around its base, embraced by the colourful, kaleidoscopic terrain.

Santorini’s captivating volcanic history has sculpted a coastline forming beaches of unparalleled allure. The Red Beach captivates with its backdrop of fiery red rock cliffs that gracefully descend into the sea, complemented by an enchanting blend of ochre, copper, and chestnut-colored sands. Equally remarkable is the White Beach, renowned for its dramatic shaped cliffs that create an extraordinary swimming setting.

The island’s dark gray volcanic sand and pebble beaches add to its geological allure, while the exploration of Nea Kameni offers an immersive encounter with the island’s natural history, featuring geothermal pools and awe-inspiring views of Santorini’s majestic sea-level cliffs. 

Whether you seek secluded shores, bustling beaches with water sports and amenities, or family-friendly options with shallow waters, Santorini caters to all preferences. Each beach possesses its own distinct charm, boasting sands of red, chocolate, black, gray, or white, accompanied by captivating volcanic rock formations.

Dating back over 4,000 years, the ancient settlement of Akrotiri unveils the captivating past of Santorini. Nestled in the southern part of the island, this well-preserved settlement bears witness to the rich cultural heritage of Santorini’s earliest inhabitants.

Preserved by the volcanic ash that covered and solidified the structures, Akrotiri is a living archaeological time capsule, inviting visitors to marvel at Minoan pottery and wander the cobblestone streets that once teemed with life. Further exploration awaits at the Archaeological Museum of Thira in Fira, offering an array of ancient treasures to discover.

For adventure seekers, hiking to the mountaintop of ancient Thira in Kamari reveals the ruins of an ancient city against the backdrop of stunning sea views, while the picturesque village of Megalochori offers a tranquil escape to admire its charming churches and architecture, embracing the rich tapestry of Santorini’s fascinating past.

Nurtured by its volcanic soil, abundant sunshine, and minimal rainfall, Santorini boasts an ideal environment for cultivating grapes of exceptional quality. The art of winemaking on the island carries a rich history that traces back to ancient Greek and Roman times, reaching its pinnacle during the Venetian rule in the Medieval era. Embodying this legacy, the island’s indigenous vines, including the indigenous Assyrtiko, Athiri, and Aidani white grape varieties, flourish in the volcanic soil, their roots intertwining with centuries of tradition.

Three notable wines that capture the essence of the island are Santorini, Nykteri, and Vinsanto. Vinsanto, a sweet and golden wine with port-like qualities, follows an ancient winemaking tradition that was practiced across ancient Italy and the Mediterranean. Its name, Vin Santo or Wine from Santo(rini), originated from the island and was exported throughout the region via Venetian boats. It is particularly delightful when enjoyed over ice with a slice of lemon.

At Santo Collection resort, your exploration of Santorini’s remarkable wines extends to the wine tasting and pairing sessions at the Resorts’ restaurants and the exclusive Wine Cellar. Nestled within the property, the wine cellar is a treasure trove of exceptional vintages, showcasing the best that the island has to offer. Indulge in a sensory adventure as you expand your palate with the unprecedented taste of Santorini’s indigenous grape varieties.

Follow the enchanting stone-built path that winds its way from Santo Collection, guiding you to the heart of Oia village within a few minutes’ walk. With its renowned scenic allure and captivating romantic ambiance, Oia has earned its well-deserved reputation as one of the most breathtaking destinations on Earth.

Steeped in history, every corner you turn, every cobblestone street you walk upon, whispers tales of the past and breathes the essence of the Mediterranean. The narrow, meandering pathways are a delightful labyrinth leading to unique discoveries—artisanal boutiques, quaint cafes, and intimate chapels, all punctuated by the vibrant hues of bougainvillea that seem to tumble from every surface.

The village is famed worldwide for its spectacular sunsets, a daily spectacle that sets the sky set ablaze with breathtaking hues of purple, orange, and gold. As the sun dips into the sea, the world seems to pause, holding its breath in awe of the stunning display of nature’s artistry.