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Map of Santorini Island
Santorini
Santorini is the southern most of the
Cyclades islands. The islands stunning and unique beauty was
created by a massive volcanic eruption in about 1645 BC. As a
result, the inner edge of the island dramatically plunges over 250
metres into the deep blue sea.
As with all of Greece, Santorini is steeped in history and
archaeological wonders. It has long been argued that this was the
site of the legendary `Lost City of Atlantis` and as you walk
through the ancient Minoan ruins you will surely be swept up in
its mystical past.
Despite being a volcanic island there are still many fine dark
sandy beaches with Perissa and Kamari being two of the island`s
best. Other places to visit include the active volcano and hot
springs of Nea Makri.
Perhaps the most famous and last impressions of Santorini are the
unequalled views across the caldera, which are at there most
impressive from the north west of the island. It is a cosmopolitan
and quite expensive place compared to other parts of Greece
however its extraordinary sea views and cliff top locations make
it an essential place to visit. It must be one of the most
stunning settings in the world in which to enjoy a sunset drink.
Night Life in Santorini
Going out in the evening in Santorini is like a fairy tale.
Twinkling lights over the Caldera and the reflection of the full
moon in the dark waters make for a magical atmosphere.
Fira heads the nightlife
section, many bars etc are actually on the caldera, whilst
others are tucked into the quaint cobbled streets weaving
through the town. That's not to say that you won't find some
great places elsewhere on the island. Ia for example has some
classy cafes & bars, Perissa Perivolos, Kamari have beach bars &
clubs, some of which stay open to the late hours ..
santorini cafes,bars & clubs
Many places along the caldera are actually built into rennovated
cave houses. There are strict laws about loud music along the
caldera, so clubs are either indoors, or surrounded by high
walls if they have a courtyard, whereas bars & cafes often have
a caldera-volcano view since they shut earlier.
Clubs and bar-clubs have guest D.J. appearances during the
summer months. They also charge a fee on the door, which
includes your first drink. Beach bars are lots of fun, they
combine a 'day club scene' with swimsuits, beach volley and
happenings.
Dress 'light', carry as
little as possible, because there is a good chance of getting
soaked. Cafes can be found everywhere, the decor is traditional
and atmospheric, frappe (iced coffee) is the favourite Greek
summer beverage. More often than not, cafes offer snacks.
santorini wines & their origins
On the breathtaking island
of Santorini, the predominant grape is Assyrtiko which produces
superb dry and dessert Appellation wines. After the devastating
volcanic explosion, circa 1650 BC, the island was covered with
volcanic ash, lava and pumice stone. This catastrophe created
the foundation for perfect soil conditions which now help
produce the very distinctive wines of Santorini ..
The vines are cultivated in low basket shaped crowns, close to
the ground for protection from the strong winds. Coming off the
sea, the nocturnal fog brings needed water to the vines during
the hot summer nights and together with the refreshing northerly
winds provide excellent growing conditions for the creation of
the superb Santorini wines.
The white wines from Santorini are bone-dry with a distinct
aroma of citrus combined with hints of smoke and minerals from
the volcanic soil. The dessert wines from Santorini are called “Vinsanto,”
a derivative of the name Santorini. Vinsanto can be naturally
sweet or fortified and must be barrel-aged for a minimum of two
years. It is distinguished by its superb velvety palate with
aromas of creme brulee, chocolate and dried apricots.
santorini tavernas & restaurants information
A guide to Santorini’s
restaurants & tavernas Traditional Santorini& Greek food Recipes
Eating is a way of life for the Santorinians and for the Greeks
in general. Restaurants are not a place to have a bite to eat
before an evening of entertainment, they ARE the entertainment.
And whether you go to a local tavern or to a fancy restaurant
you will see that the Greeks take their time over food.
A Greek dinner typically
starts with a wide assortment of appetizers such as tzatziki,
choriatiki, taramosalata, and dolmadakia. Then follows the
entree with a choice of grilled meats or seafood such as
octopus, squid, red snappers etc.
Local and/or other
Greek wines accompany each course. No meal is complete without
Greek pastries and thick strong coffee. Taverns are usually
cheaper than restaurants - they offer simple but tasty dishes.
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