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A Repurposed Windmill in the Sunrise
It is worth getting up early to catch the sunrise over the caldera in Santorini, Greece. (iPhone12Pro)
I’m not exactly a morning person. But, when a walk along the top of Santorini’s caldera is on offer, I’ll make the effort!
The Santorini we see today is what remains of the island after a huge volcanic eruption about 3,600 years ago. That explosion destroyed the early settlements – and what remains of the caldera filled with water. The trail between Fira and Oia, the two most populous towns on the island, follows the north-western rim of this caldera through picturesque villages, past beautiful churches, and over some wild and rocky terrain.
Considered a must-do in Santorini, this 10+ km (6.2+ mi) hike is famous for its stunning views. Rated as moderate, it is definitely challenging in places, with multiple uphill and downhill sections (see: AllTrails). While parts of it are paved, other sections vary between gravel and loose volcanic scree. We were warned that there was no shade and no toilet facilities along the way.
We were staying near Fira (see: Iconic Blue and White). Our guide was determined to set out early to avoid the heat of the day. So, before the sun had even thought about rising, I was in the lobby with my walking stick, hat, and bottled water. I downed a quick coffee, had a last toilet stop, and claimed a bagged breakfast. Before first light, we set off from our hotel to find the path.
By the time the sun was lighting the sky, we had climbed high enough to revel in the morning views.
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Pre-Dawn Blue Light
We set off from our hotel very early. Santorini has only about 15,000 permanent residents, but with the annual influx of tourists, there is plenty of development. We can see the lights stretching out along the top of the caldera to Oia in the distance.
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Church in the Morning
Those famous blue-domed Orthodox churches are everywhere you look. This one is the Firostefani parish church of Agios Gerasimos (Saint Gerasimos), built in 1807.
Isolated Windmill
By the time we reach Imerovigli – the next village – the sky is changing colour.
A Pink Pre-Dawn Sky
Sunrise over the Islands
Watching the light change over the other islands in the Santorini group is just breathtaking. (iPhone12Pro)
Sunrise
We stop to watch the sun rise over the horizon.
Sunrise through the Doorway
How gorgeous are these hotels! And, what a magnificent location. (iPhone12Pro)
Cave House
Santorini is dotted with unique cave houses carved into the volcanic rock. Many of them have been renovated and are used as rental accommodation.
Golden Morning
The trail north out of Imerovigli continues to climb.
Shrine over the Caldera
Roadside memorials, sometimes referred to as iconostasis, can be seen all over Greece. They might be a memorial to a dead person, but are often intended to provide holy protection against harm or accidents. They contain religious symbols (icons, images of a cross, coins, tokens, etc.) and act as places for religious practice – in effect, they are a reminder to pray or give thanks.
Church of Saint Mark
Chapels and churches are everywhere. The little chapel dedicated to Agios Markos – Saint Mark – sits on a hill overlooking our path.
Church of Prophet Elias
We have been on the trail an hour when we reach this pretty church with its tidy courtyard and some welcome shade – thanks to a few pines; a rarity on Santorini. The church, built in 1750, is dedicated to the Israelite prophet Elijah the Tishbite.
Walkers on the Path
My walking companions head off on a cobbled downhill section; …
Down the Stairs and into my own Shadow
… I just can’t resist hanging back to get a shadowed selfie in the sun. (iPhone12Pro)
Over the Caldera
The views never stop!
Chapel of the Assumption of the Virgin
We are close to rounding our our second hour, and are getting nearer to Oia.
Rocks along the Trail
Mud Brick Hut
Accommodation on the island takes all forms!
Nature’s Artworks : Standing Stone Sculpture
The last section of the walk takes us through some rough and remarkable terrain.
Chapel with a View
Another chapel clings to the edge of the caldera – I never could find the name of this one.
Still Life Found : Mastrogiannis
Into Oia
Two and a half hours after starting out, we were well into Oia – and ready for well-earned coffees.
It truly is a stunning walk!
I felt rather sorry for my travelling companions who had made their way to Oia by car instead of walking. They got coffee as well, but none of the experience and satisfaction.
That coffee tasted so good!
Photos: 25September2022
