Crescent-shaped Santorini (or Thíra), the precious gem of the Aegean, is a group of islands consisting of Thíra, Thirassiá, Asproníssi, Palea and Nea Kaméni in south Cyclades.
Whole complex of Santorini islands is still an active volcano (the same as Méthana, Mílos and Nísiros) and probably the only volcano in the world whose crater is in the sea? The islands that form Santorini came into existence as a result of intensive volcanic activity; twelve huge eruptions occurred, one every 20,000 years approximately, and each violent eruption caused the collapse of the volcano’s central part creating a large crater (caldera). The volcano, however, managed to recreate itself over and over again.
Santorini is considered to be the most sought after place for a romantic getaway in Greece, since there are not many places in the world where you can enjoy exquisitely clear waters while perched on the rim of a massive active volcano in the middle of the sea! The island has a growing reputation as a “wedding destination” for couples not only from Greece but from all over the world. A trip to Santorini with the other half is a dream for anyone who has seen at least one photo of the island’s famous Caldera and exchanging kisses beneath Santorini’s famous sunset is the ultimate romantic experience!
Firá is the picturesque capital of the island; perched high up on the edge of the Caldera, it looks like a marvellous painting. Firá, together with Oia, Imerovígli and Firostefáni located high above on a cliff, make up the so-called “Caldera’s eyebrow”, the balcony of Santorini, which offers an amazing view of the volcano. Other famous smaller villages are Akrotíri and Méssa Vounó, with their famous archaeological sites, Pýrgos, Karterádes, Emporió, Ammoúdi, Finikiá, Períssa, Perívolos, Megalohóri, Kamári, Messariá and Monólithos: some of the villages are cosmopolitan some more peaceful; they are surrounded by vast vineyards; whitewashed cliff-top towns with castles affording amazing views out over the Aegean. Soaking up the villages’ distinctive traditional atmosphere is a very rewarding experience.
A visit to Santorini is the ultimate gastronomic experience, as the island is a true culinary paradise! Treat your taste buds to some famous traditional products like cherry tomatoes, white egg plants, fava, caper and “hloró tyrí”, a special kind of fresh goat cheese found on the island, or why not try some of the exceptional wines produced from grapes grown in the volcanic soil of the island! Assyrtiko, Athyri, Aidani, Mantilaria and Mavrotragano are just some of the distinctive varieties that you can taste at the island’s famous wineries (some of them operate as a museum as well) or at restaurants.
Venture into Santorini’s seaside treasures and enjoy deep blue waters and beaches with white, red or black sand or volcanic pebbles, spectacular rock formations and impressive lunar landscapes. Santorini, the youngest volcanic land in the Eastern Mediterranean, is waiting for you! You can reach it by plane or by ship from Piraeus. Don’t think twice! Experience for yourself the once-in-a-lifetime romance and charm of this pearl of the Aegean.
When you are in Santorini, the best possible way to experience the mystique and luxury is to stay in Iconic Santorini. Iconic Santorini, a boutique cave hotel offers 19 lovely residences, tastefully decorated to honour the distinctive Cycladic architecture.
Romantic haven of tranquility is situated directly on the edge of the volcanic caldera wall in the picturesque village of Imerovigli, set at the highest point of this beautiful volcanic island. Iconic Santorini offer a choice of accommodation options, all providing spectacular views of the caldera and historic volcano.
The Iconic family ensures that visiting friends are warmly welcomed to serene residential atmosphere, giving them the feeling of visiting the home of a Greek friend. The Guest Services Team are well experienced ambassadors of Santorini and always eager to put together bespoke itineraries of activities and sights for memorable island exploration.
Authentic Greek dishes are skillfully crafted using only the very best ingredients and products sourced by passionate local island chef. The kitchen is open and we encourage visitors to pass by to see what is being prepared for the day and to learn a thing or two about the chef’s family recipes, passed down through the generations.
Visitors of Iconic Santorini are treated as individuals according to their preferences and are able to fully relax, while taking in the warm Hellenic hospitality of our dedicated staff. Iconic Santorini goal is to provide a truly timeless experience and provide visitors with unforgettable memories.
There are a lot of ways coming to Santorini island, but one of the easiest and fastest is to come by air, if you are coming to Santorini from Thessaloniki, second biggest Greek city, the best option is to travel with Astra Airlines, member of European regions airline association.
After a long walk around old town such as Fira, Imerovighli or Firostefani, the best possible sunset can be viewed in town of Oia in northern part of the Island.
