Santorini

  The "Caldera" From Fira 
  Originally uploaded by fredwilson.

This island is magical for sure.

The signature look is off to the west where the volcanic eruption caused the steep walls that line the western edge of the island.

The "island" in the distance, on the other side of the cruise ship, is what's left of the volcano, including the crater. I think its dormant now. At least I hope so.

The white and blue you see in the postcards and travel brochures is really just the way it is. And it's great.

Comments

[Leigh]

If you have time, go to Anafi. Amazing island just off Santorini. Very few places to stay, no cars (mostly beach camping) so you might have to just do a day trip but quiet paradise compared to the main island (which is beautiful but busy).

:)

[Ian]

I was just in Santorini myself -- my wife and I did a half-day private boat tour around the Island with Captain Ted - http://www.greektravel.com/greekislands/santorini/sailing/index.htm

It's definitely the way to see Santorini.

[Jed Christiansen]

Fira is great, but I liked Oia even more. Make sure you visit Oia before you leave!

[josh]

hi fred,
try spetses, about 2 hours away from Athens by boat. Just as magical as Santorini, far fewer tourists.

[Eric]

You know that there is a theory that Santorini was the site of the now mythical "lost city" of Atlantis. There is evidence of an advanced civilization that built a city on that caldera, only to have it blown to bits by the eruption.

[nik cubrilovic]

God I love the islands.. would do anything to trade places with you

I agree with a lot of the comments above that you should step away from the beaten track if you get a chance

[Shine]

I'm new to your site and thanks for updating us on your trip to Greece and the islands. Been there before during my undergraduate days and it's always top on my list for a second time visit.

BTW, nice blog you have and I'll come back often.

[jason scott]

gotta make sure you dont miss ammoudi! amazing place, little town on the water on the east end of the island near Oia. great fresh fish places where they pull the fish out of the water for and grill it right there. almost called our daughter ammoudi we loved it so much ;)

"AMMOUDI
Ammoudi, is a tiny charming port with a very small beach in the caldera at the foot of the village of Oia (it is located some 200 steps below Oia) with clear blue green water which get deep just after a few steps (something that families wiht children should cautious about). Ammoudi offers several excellent fish tavernas. Thanks to its scenic enviroment with the imposive colorful volcanic rocks shadowind the sea it attracks many visitors.

It is accessible by car through the old pumice stone mines and by foot or on mules' back via the 214 broad steps which you have to descend and to ascend.