If There’s One Place That Evokes Ancient History, Decadence, and Romance, Then That’s Santorini, Greece

“Not life, but good life, is to be chiefly valued.” – Socrates

Going on a trip to a place that’s ripe with history and romance is one great opportunity that you should not miss. Taking a breather from the hustle and bustle of the city and the stress brought by work, school, or running a business is something that you should look forward to, especially if the destination would make you wish to stay (or perhaps live) longer than necessary. A lot has been said and written about the island of Greece, and true enough, the place draws millions of travelers to its breathtaking beauty, ancient history, and people.

The island of Santorini is one of Greece’s pride found in the southern  Aegean Sea, around two-hundred kilometers southeast of the mainland. What’s interesting about Santorini is its origin – having been formed by a huge volcanic eruption that wiped out the ancient settlements on what used to be a single island. The result is a spectacular island that spans ninety-one km²  and covers the uninhabited islands of Nea Kameni, Palaia Kameni, Aspronisi, and Christiana, and of course, the inhabited islands of Santorini and Therasia. Exploring Santorini is an experience you won’t regret, and we’re giving you ten reasons why:

The place draws millions of travelers to its breathtaking beauty, ancient history, and people.

 One-of-a-kind beaches

Though there are some white sand beaches in the island, Santorini is more popular for its black sand beaches and crystal clear waters. One of the beaches called Perissa has an enormous rock that looks like a mountain, known as Mesa Vouno. At night, visitors can see this non-volcanic rock shine in the dark. Another popular go-to beach is the Red Beach which boasts of reddish volcanic sand set against the blue waters. Whether you want to swim, sunbathe, frolic along the shores, or just take a refreshing drink in a cafe, the time spent on Santorini’s beaches are truly worth experiencing.

Interesting swimming holes

If you want more privacy, then you can check out Santorini’s swimming holes strewn across the beaches. One place that you shouldn’t miss is Amoudi Bay where the beach sits around a series of cliffs. The spot is highly recommended if you want to catch the sunset. If you’re feeling hungry, you can sample the fresh catch of the day as you explore the area.

A lot of soothing hot springs

Natural springs abound in Santorini. These wonders emerged from volcanic eruptions where black lava resulted in the formation of small islands and along with them, therapeutic hot springs. In the uninhabited island of Nea Kamini, tourists flock to the island’s hot spring because of its active sulfur vents and “yellow” waters.

 Awe-inspiring architecture

Santorini’s architecture is truly a sight to behold. Structures are made of local stone that has been whitewashed or limewashed using volcanic ashes as colors. Houses are characterized by their low-lying cubical build where extensions are dug downwards or sideways into the surrounding pumice. The rooms are valued for their high insulation properties that provide warmth during winter and coolness during summer.

Beautiful hotels

From relatively inexpensive to highly luxurious hotels, Santorini has various accommodations to suit the budget of any traveler. Whatever is the preference, you are still sure to enjoy the sights and sounds of the island and revel in the beauty of the architectural landscape. There are hotels that sit on a cliff, and this experience alone allows guests to enjoy their stay without having to go out of their hotel.

Seemingly endless trails

The simplest way to enjoy the sights of Santorini is by foot. Be sure to wear your most comfortable shoes and clothes as you will be climbing many scenic trails – from Santorini’s capital Fira, and up to the Castle of Oia, where you will be rewarded with a beautiful sunset when you finish the trail by the end of the day. You won’t notice how far you have walked because you will be distracted by sites such as churches, the main street, the Aegean Sea and the volcano.

The traveler sees what he sees. The tourist sees what he has come to see.” – G.K. Chesterton

Intriguing ruins

There were inhabitants before one of the biggest volcanic eruptions took place in 1646 BC where communities were destroyed or buried in the hardened lava formations. But through excavation efforts, the remnants of the buildings and ancient artifacts were unearthed and open to the public through the Akrotiri excavation site.

Delicious cuisine

Greek food is unique for its freshness and flavourful taste, using mostly seafood, vegetables, dairy, and unique spices. First-timers should try the Brantada which is a cod fillet prepared with flour, salt, and at times beer, then served with fresh salad. Other local favorites would be the pie-like dish Santorini Sfougato and Fava where you can sample in most restaurants in Santorini.

Marvelous wineries

The wine industry of Santorini is small, but flourishing. But with the island’s volcanic soil and conducive climate, the indigenous grape variety called Assyrtiko and other varieties Athiri and Aidani, Santorini produces great tasting wine that can be enjoyed from dawn till night. Touring the wineries alone is a great experience that gives a nice view of the landscapes and backdrop which is worth every pixel of your device.

Truly romantic atmosphere

By now, you must already agree that the picture being painted of Santorini speaks romance. The island is perfect for couples who want to get away from it all and experience a rich history, culture, sunsets and beaches, and all the other things Santorini has to offer. If you’d rather go by yourself or with friends or family, the place will still inspire romanticism, and the experience and memories will be no less than having a special someone with you.

We leave something of ourselves behind when we leave a place, we stay there, even though we go away. And there are things in us that we can find again only by going back there.” – Pascal Mercier

Put Santorini in your next itinerary, and you would surely agree that it’s worth including on your bucket list.