Secret Santorini
Santorini is one of the most famous scenes of Greece. White limestone buildings with azure domes cut into the rock that sweeps down into the sea, in the shadow of a collapsed volcano harking back to a time when the islands wasn’t so picturesque. Driving through winding roads with baying donkeys passing by, in the windswept vineyards where the vines huddle twisted in nests on the ground to protect them from the winds, it’s easy to see the captivating contrasts that make Santorini an absolute must for travellers all over the world.
A trip to Santorini this summer during the highest of “high season” showed me with a wry smile that I’m not alone in my love of this island — not by a long shot. Staying in Oia, during the afternoons the streets packed with cruise shippers and day-trippers all angling for that perfect shot to instagram or send to a friend. Spending several days avoiding the swarm, I marveled at how it was so much easier than I thought. Swim against the tide, find a hidden corner, and Santorini can be a quiet, beautiful island even in the peak of tourist season.
First, if taking that famous shot is on your checklist too, staying in Oia is a great way to get it without also getting a headache. The convenience of actually staying in this town is that early in the morning and after sunset, the village is yours. The groups filter out, and the marble alleyways empty. You can take all the pictures you want in the morning, uninterrupted, and that view is still yours as you sit on your hotel balcony sipping wine in the evening.
Another great way to avoid the crowds is to explore the inner part of the island. With a private, local driver, you can wind your way through the roads up to the highest point, where you’ll find a little church, a convent, and a view that will literally take your breath away (it’s high up here!). The island rolls on before your eyes, and you can really appreciate the juxtaposition between sea and soil that makes their cuisine so unique and excellent. On the way back town, you can swing by some roadside stands to grab some sweet sundried tomatoes from a local farmer.
Actually getting in the sea is another way to see the island in style, and my personal favorite, being a lover of all things salt water related. A small group catamaran tour is the perfect way to pass the day sailing through hot springs and through the small rocky island groups that are nestled close to the Santorini shore. Taking in the warm Mediterranean sun with the salty sea breeze (and a cold local beer in hand) is a special treat for a couple or a family. Going to some local black sand beaches (we love some of the shallower waters by Kamari) is a great idea for families — across the street you’ll find simple, delicious restaurants oozing white and blue charm, where you can sample some of their famous fava and baked feta. On a quiet, sunny Wednesday, we shared our black sand beach with only 4 or 5 other people.
Santorini is one of the most famous islands in the world, and we completely agree. But don’t let a trip during high season bring you hesitations, because the island is full of places that can be uniquely yours, full of great food, beautiful hidden corners, and that famous Greek hospitality.
