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Blue Domes and Whitewashed Walls
Santorini is – as they say – everything a Greek island should be. And Oía, that charming village sitting on the northwestern edge of a stunningly beautiful caldera, is the absolute cream.
I had to keep pinching myself!
Santorini lives up to its hype. This southernmost island in the Greek Cyclades is probably the country’s most-visited island. Rightly known for its extraordinary natural beauty, it is a popular travel destination for people the world over.
It was certainly on my bucket list!
Of course, the downside of the island’s popularity is that is also expensive and crowded. I read one blogger who complained about the price of his coffee – even while extolling the view that comes for free! During the peak season – July and August – the island is packed with tourists. Cruise ships offload thousands of day-trippers to add to the throngs.
I was travelling in late-September, during the more-reasonable and less-crowded shoulder season – and Covid19 lockdowns had not long since ended. Even so, there were queues of tourists and Instagrammers waiting for their turns at the most iconic viewpoints.
But, I was finally there! The weather was glorious, the food and wine were sublime, and the views were everything you could hope for.
We had arrived on Santorini from Naxos the day before, and spent the afternoon exploring the capital town of Fira where we were staying (see: Iconic Blue and White). On this particular morning, I – and one other person in the small group I was travelling with – had got up very early to walk from our hotel in Firostefani, north along the edge of the ruined caldera that formed the island, to the picturesque town of Oia (see: A Santorini Sunrise).
When we arrived there, we were free to explore Oia itself before checking out some of the wineries Santorini is also famous for.
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Coming into Oia
As we come to the tail end of our walk from Fira – some 10+ km (6.2 mi) away – the whitewashed houses and blue-domed churches on the outskirts of Oia come into view.
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Church of Agios Georgios
This large, creamy yellow Orthodox church with its contrasting blue domes stands out from all the other white churches in Oia.
Oia
Those iconic whitewashed buildings and blue Orthodox church domes are everywhere you look. The other Santorini islands that are the remains of that spectacular caldera wrap themselves around us on the horizon.
The Virgin Mary of the Akathist Hymn Church
Every Greek church seems to have several names! This one is also known as the Church of Panagia Akathistos Hymn. With its six-piece bell tower, it is a commanding example of Santorini’s typical architecture. Located in the main square, it is the most famous church in Oia.
Photo Shoot
Our guide leads us to “THE spot” – but, plenty of people are there already with their selfie sticks, or with actual photographers in tow!
A Classic View
This is the Greek Orthodox dome that makes it into so many postcards. Far below, life goes on on the flooded caldera that is now a protected harbour. (iPhone12Pro)
Pumice Cliffs
Buildings cling to the rough cliffs that rise up steeply from the water.
Souvenir Stand
Watercolours and postcards are popular souvenirs. (iPhone12Pro)
Looking Down to Ammoudi Bay
The inter-island ferries land in Órmos, further south on the island – but there are plenty of tourist boats in the fishing port of Ammoudi Bay.
The Bells of Oia
Another classic postcard view – with just enough breeze to lift the flag! (iPhone12Pro)
Bells over the Caldera
That view! Who can get enough?
The Castle of Oia on the Clifftop
The ruins of the 15th-century Venetian fortress are a popular sunset spot. We won’t be in town that long.
Through the Gate
Windmill
Windmills like this one dot the islands. In the old days, these windmills were used to grind grain. This famous windmill in Oia is a signature Santorini landmark. Although the windmills are no longer functional, many – like this one – have been preserved as a reminder of the island’s past. Some have been retrofitted as tavernas or tourist accommodation.
It isn’t ALL Whitewash!
Rendered stone was a common building material. In a region prone to earthquakes, plenty of buildings like this mini market are in need of repair. (iPhone12Pro)
Oia on the Edge
Who can resist one last look before we head back to our hotel in Fira?
The Venetsanos Winery
In the afternoon, we head back out to learn about the unique (and expensive!) Santorini wines.
The History of Santorini Wine
Santorini’s Mediterranean climate, unique terroir, and ancient vines all contribute to the exceptional quality of the local wines.
Boats on the Caldera
Venetsanos Winery is located overlooking the magnificent caldera, right above the port of Athinios, so we have magnificent views for our tasting.
Young Server at the Venetsanos Winery
Fortunately, we have some snacks to compliment our wine.
Modern Sculpture and Old Equipment
Our second wine tasting was at the Estate Argyros.
Over the Vineyards to Anafi
Estate Argyros is in Episkopi Gonia, a village on the other side of Santorini, so we have views over the Aegean Sea.
Our Sommelier
Our hostess explains the wines as we taste them.
Last Light over Anafi
Meanwhile, the sun sets on our last evening on Santorini.
I returned to my room a little tipsy and a whole lot sad knowing that this was my last day on this spectacularly beautiful island.
Still, who knows what the future might bring?
Pictures: 25September2022
