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Santorini
Free your Mind and Discover Santorini
Welcome to Santorini, one of the most beautiful islands in the world. The immense volcanic caldera created by the volcanic eruption of 1600 B.C. presents a scenery of exceptional beauty that enchants every visitor that reaches Santorini, and living in any spot on the caldera is an experience unlike anything in the world! Let's explore Santorini and everything that is worth visiting on this magnificent island.
The prehistoric settlement of Akrotiri is one of the most significant civilizations of the Mediterranean. It was so advanced and sophisticated that many believe it was the Atlantis. Archaeological excavations have brought to light a city with a highly advanced civilization with exemplary architecture, commerce and culture, and the findings can be admired both on-site and at the Museum of Prehistoric Thera at Fira. Just like Pompeii, Akrotiri was buried under lava, only here people were not found in the remains, meaning that hopefully, the habitats had enough time to flee Santorini to safety.
After the eruption, Santorini was reoccupied in the 8th century B.C. by Spartan settlers. Their king Theras gave his name to the island, and his capital, Ancient Thera is located on top of Mesa Vouno, overlooking the beaches of Kamari and Perissa. You can also reach Ancient Thera by hiking, from the path starting from Pyrgos Village via the Monastery of Profitis Ilias, an exciting hike through spots of natural beauty. During the Venetian occupation, Santorini thrived, and five castle-cities were built around the island. These cities were known as Kastelia, and their unique structures were perfect fortifications against pirate attacks. These Kastelia were: Skaros at Imerovigli, Pyrgos, Emporio, Akrotiri and Oia. The best-preserved castles on the island are those of Pyrgos and Emporio, whereas the rock of Skaros, which you can see from Agali Houses is an amazing spot for viewing the sunset.
Santorini is famous for some of its unique volcanic products, and particularly for its exquisite wine; Vinsanto, a local specialty, made Santorini famous all around the world, whereas today, its wine production is admirable, a destination all by itself! Apart from the wines, Santorini is home to sublime fava beans, cherry tomatoes with a fiery character and white eggplants that treat the palate and enchant the senses. These amazing products lie at the basis of Santorinian gastronomy, and it is truly worth trying them in every chance you get!
You may come for the amazing scenery of the Santorinian caldera, but Santorini has so much more to offer! Explore its treasures and let the power of this unique island thrill you, making you a devoted fan of one of the most beautiful destinations in the world!
Activities
Let’s take a look at some of the most popular activities you can participate in when in Santorini; all so unique and special that they will surely enhance your holiday experience, filling your days with excitement and fascinating memories. Of course, the concierge of Hotel Agali Houses is at your utter disposal to help you select and arrange all the activities that intrigue you in Santorini.
Sightseeing: The archaeological site of Akrotiri is an imperative stop for anyone who wishes a closer look to Santorini’s past. Visit this highly advanced settlement to admire exquisite murals, beautifully preserved buildings and workshops and explore an era in time so distant yet so interesting. Many significant findings from Akrotiri are also exhibited in the Museum of Prehistoric Thera at Fira. At the island's capital you will also find the Archaeological Museum, where findings from the city of Ancient Thera (above Kamari village) and other archaeological excavations around the island are showcased.
Village Hopping: Fira is the focal point and the capital of the island, where you will find a wide range of shops, an abundance of restaurants, cafes and bars for every hour of the day and a vibrant nightlife. The town of Fira is just a ten minutes’ walk from Agali Houses Hotel. The villages of Pyrgos, Megalohori, Emporio and Akrotiri are worth visiting for their Kastelia and their unique, evocative atmosphere. Don’t miss out on Oia village (12 km. from Agali Hotel) to admire the traditional architecture but also to watch the most famous sunset around the world.
The beaches. Santorini’s coasts are sprinkled with some extraordinary beaches that demonstrate the volcanic origins of this island in spectacular ways; the most iconic such beaches are the famous rocky Red Beach, the tranquil White Beach, and the evocative Vlychada with its otherworldly scenery. For swimming, the cosmopolitan Perivolos features a wide selection of beach bars, whereas Perissa is the home of water sports enthusiasts, and Kamari invites you to a beachfront shopping experience in its delightful promenade and for swimming in the EU Blue Flag awarded beach. If you are visiting with your family the shallow waters of Monolithos beach are the perfect choice, and for more natural, unspoilt spots look for the cove of Cambia or Coloumbos Beach.
Discover more. Let us arrange a tour to the wineries of the island for a tasting of the unique wines of Santorini. We can also arrange a cruise with a catamaran or a traditional boat to the caldera, the volcanoes and the island’s coastal beauties. A huge variety of such cruises is available, and the Agali Houses concierge can help you choose the one that appeals to you the most.
Do not hesitate to ask the people of Hotel Agali Houses for more information and suggestions on activities and experiences on the island of Santorini. We would be more than happy to guide you through the treasures of our amazing land!
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