18 | iet Season Mediterranean Guide
One day in
SANTORINI
Words Mary Ann Haslam
White-washed stone buildings with royal-blue
dome roofs perched prettily along a clifftop… it
can only be Santorini. This stylish, iconic island
can be visited on a classic Mediterranean sailing
and will have plenty for visitors to see and do.
So many superlatives can be experienced here,
including the food, wine and—perhaps most
famous of all—the sunsets.
MORNING
Journey to Santorini's highest peak and
explore one of its prettiest towns and an early
18th-century monastery on the Summits &
Countryside excursion. From our anchorage,
you will tender to the island's main port at
Athinios. Meet your local guide here for a scenic
drive to the cliffside town of Oia, where you
will have an opportunity to stroll its narrow,
cobblestone streets. On a clear day, you may
see spectacular views of the volcano of Palea
and Nea Kameni and the island of Thírassia.
Afterwards, travel to the Prophet Elias
Monastery, a massive 18th-century stone
church. One of the oldest churches on Santorini,
it sits at the island's highest point and offers the
sweeping views of the countryside, from green
valleys to the blue sea.
AFTERNOON
In the village of Pyrgos, the former capital of
the island, stroll among traditional homes
built around the ruins of a Venetian fortress.
Enjoy a short walk with your guide through
these medieval labyrinthine streets. You are
also invited into a traditional island home to
meet locals who will share what island life
is really like. Then explore hillside Thíra, the
island capital.
EVENING
Experience the breathtaking sunset from the
comfort of your ship, whether from the balcony
of your suite or elsewhere with a delicious
sundowner of your choice.
