Santorini Port Review

Posted on Friday, October 23, 2009

 Although I have yet to visit many part of the worlds, Santorini (also known as Thera,) is my favorite destination in the Mediterannean. I was speachless as we approached the island. With dramatic views of white houses clinging perilously to the side of the caldera & stunning beaches of white & red sand or black pebbles, it’s no wonder Santorini may be the most photographed scenery in the world.

Between the 21st and 16th centuries BC, the Minoans lived on the island, which was later flooded & preserved under a blanket of volcanic ash. It is believed that the effects of the volcano led indirectly to the collapse of the Minoan civilization. Another popular theory holds that the Thera eruption is the source of the legend of the Lost City of Atlantis. J

ust a short cable car ride (or a longer trip by donkey), and you are in Fera. There are loads of shops and cafes to explore. Shop for jewelry, wine, leather and handmade goods. Tours offer visits to Oia Village for amazing photo ops including the famous blue domed churches.

You can also visit the village of Pyrgos and go up to the highest peak of Santorini to Mt. Profitis Ilias for magnificent views of the entire island. Enjoy wine? Perhaps take a tour and tasting at Domaine Sigalas, the only Greek winery to be included into Wine Spectator's "Top 100 Wines of the World" list, or the Boutari Winery. Boutari was founded by Yiannis Boutari, a Greek Winemaker whose influence over the Greek wine industry has been equated by Wine Spectator as being "... on par with Robert Mondavi in the Napa Valley."

Remember, no trip to Greece is complete without trying their authentic Gyros available in lamb, beef and chicken. In the mood for Greek food no? Here is a great recipe for Tzatziki sauce to go with your gyros.