Zoomtra Explores The Shades Cool Blues And Whites Of Santorini

BANGALORE: Extremely blue. Extremely white. Extremely unique- is what Santorini really is. Also known as Thira, Santorini is famous for its intriguing history, awesome volcanic landscape, cosmopolitan atmosphere, breathtaking sunsets, deep blue sea, the volcano, are just some of the reasons that make Santorini the most popular holiday destination in Greece. This magical land has a metaphysical energy and as you roam around the villages of Fira, Oia and Imerovigli overlooking the Aegean Sea, you are only bound to fall for its serenity and tranquil views.

And it’s not just its natural terrain that make this land a masterpiece. It has a host of heritage sites that are equally enticing and force you immerse your soul into Greece’s heritage. A visit to Mesa Gonia where the ruins of 1956 earthquake can still be found is a great venue for photography. Here one can also see the fineries of Greek architecture, which was used to restore beautiful villas and a winery at the foot of the settlement here. While another notable tourist attraction is the village of Pyrgos which has several grand old houses, remains of a Venetian castle and several Byzantine churches.

Santorini is also a famous beach destination. The most frequented beach being the Red Beach. Red Beach earns its name from the iron-rich sedimentary rocks in the cliff face towering above you, as well as the red sand. It’s quite crowded; you can rent an umbrella and a pair of chaise lounges for € 8, though there is also some good free space nearby that gets packed by midday. The first few meters of the water near the shore are quite gravelly, so be prepared to step on some stones.  Another famous beach here is the Vlychada–the nude beach. On the left side of the beach, you will see that people are clothed, but as you go toward the right, you will find everyone in nude. An umbrella with 2 chaise longues cost €5 if you stay on the left side of the beach. Other famous beaches and swimming areas are Amoudi, Perivolos, Monolithos, Baxedes, Pori, Mesa pigadia and Agios Georgios.

Also read: Zoomtra Explores The Land Of Sea, Sand And Serenity

5 things to do in Santorini

-Walk along the caldera from Fira to Oia. Climb to see Ancient Thira, or more ambitiously, the monastery, for an amazing view of the ocean, beaches, and island from up high.
-Horseback riding in Exo Gonia
-Scuba diving and snorkling. Even non-qualified divers can dive up to 14 metres down on a wreck next to the volcano.
-Caldera Cruise and Oia Sunset
-Plan your wedding in Santorini