Santorini

Greece • Cyclades Islands • Santorini

Santorini - a drowned volcano

Santorini is an exquisite island where the views of rooftops and white buildings descending to a sparkling sea are enhanced by the backdrop of a stunning sunrise and dramatic sunsets

Santorini mythical island with plenty of archaeological sites. It home to civilisation in the Minoan times in 3600 BC (when the myth of the Minotaur was being fed 70 miles away on Crete). A volcanic eruption in 1500 BC sank much of the island, then called Thera, causing the end of the Minoan civilisation, and many believe this is the historical basis for the myth of the destruction Atlantis. Plato described a civilised society living on the island of Atlantis, which many believe to be Thera. A Minoan city is being excavated beneath farmland at the village of Akrotiri. Pottery and decorative objects were discovered but unlike Pompeii, no bodies were found. The Phoenicians came in 1300 BC, bringing their alphabet. Between 1200-1579 AD Santorini was under Byzantine rule, then part of the Venetian empire.

Nowadays the island has the relaxed atmosphere and warm welcome so typical of a Greek island, while the temple ruins, archaeological sites, sea views and sunsets offer endless inspiration for artists.

Hotel Anatoli

A friendly, family-run hotel in Thira, near the main square. The comfortable, air-conditioned en suite rooms overlook a large pool and terrace. A 20 minute stroll to sunsets over the caldera lagoon.

Hotel Golden Star

A friendly family hotel attractively built in the Cyclades architectural style, with a colonnade of archways around a luxurious pool, with sunrise sea views to the east, comfortable rooms, many with balconies, and modern facilities including free internet access. On the outskirts of Santorini's main town of Thira, it's only 150 yards walk to the main square where you can enjoy the entertainment and sights if you wish to do so, but still be quiet at night.