My last few days in Santorini were quite active. The day after climbing the stairs from Amoudi to Oia, I rested from the intense heat of the day in preparation for an evening hike from Oia to Fira. The hike is about 18 km and takes three hours, although A., P. and I made it in 2.5 hours, being the beasts we are. We started around 6:30pm so we could avoid the heat, which was particularly bad that day. From Finikia, its straight up a mountain to the top, where you’ll find a church perched on a cliff. You’re literally on top of the world, with an amazing view of Santorini and the ocean beyond in every direction.
Scrambling down the mountain, you walk along the western cliffs overlooking the caldera, which was perfect for the sunset.
And then you continue past multiple churches (several of which were hosting sunset weddings, although I didn’t get photos, of course, not knowing the happy couples!) toward the more inhabited area of Imorivigli, until you hit Fira.
It was an amazing hike that I’d encourage anyone in Santorini to do in the sunset. Just be aware that for about 15 minutes you’ll walk along a highway because someone built a hotel along one of the paths and closed the path to the public. RUDE! A says that Santorini is becoming more and more commercialised though, and to expect more of this in the future. From the new construction we saw all over the island as we walked, I don’t doubt it.
Hot and sticky, we treated ourselves to the best souvlaki in town, several beers and my favourite find of the holiday, loukomades- a less-sweet version of the American donut, drenched in honey, cinnamon and sesame seeds.
Early the next morning, I woke up, watched the sunrise and chatted over my last breakfast of Greek yogurt and fresh figs with A. and P. They dropped me a the airport (which, by the way, is probably the most disorganized and dirty airport I’ve ever been in, but my holiday was so good I didn’t let it bother me in the slightest!). We parted ways promising to see each other in England as soon as we all converge again from our various remaining summer plans. One thing is for sure. I owe A. big time. His villa will be my mental happy place for months to come and he showed us all a spectacular time in Athens and Santorini.
Comments
What gorgeous photos of your trip, Khaleelah. The sunsets in Santorini are a world apart, aren’t they? xx