Southeast of mainland Greece in the southern Aegean Sea lies the stunning island of Santorini. In fact, Santorini owes its existence to a volcano whose last huge eruption dates back 3600 years ago. Santorini is an arid environment with a hot desert climate and very little rainfall, one of the only two environments of its kind in Europe. The world’s largest caldera, with its magnificent contrast of colors, imposing landscape, exciting entertainment, and rich history (dating back to the Bronze Age) make this one of the most popular vacation destinations in the region. Santorini is comprised of 13 villages, covering a 73 sq. km area. Within these villages there are only 2 principal towns. Fira, the capital (clings to the edge of a cliff (actually the rim of a crater), and Oia are the two main cities. Interestingly, at this point, there are 3 choices to reach the town of Fira: cable car, donkey ride, or a very rough 45 minute walk uphill, on a path you will share with the mules. The buildings and home of Santorini are the island’s most striking feature, consisting of whitewashed cube shaped houses, many with beautiful blue domed roofs. Santorini is also home to wine vineyards, and a variety of world renowned vegetables, including tomatoes, white eggplants, and cucumbers. The main export product of the island is wine, as well as the vineyards of the island benefit from the volcanic soil combined with little rain and the winds prevailing in the island. The most known kinds of wines are Nyxteri and the famous Vincanto (Vino Santo) which is used by the Catholic church as the Eucharist. Kamari Beach is one of the most famous and longest beaches on the island. White beach and Red beach are also very popular. White beach is located 14 km away from Fira and is one of the major tourist attractions. Its name derives from the stones that cover the sand. Actually the white beach is covered by black, gray and white sand with large pebbles, surrounded by huge white rocks that increase the sense of isolation. Getting there is only possible by boat from Akrotiri. Red beach is located near the ancient village of Akrotiri and is one of the most famous and beautiful beaches of Santorini. Because it is rather small, usually fills pretty quickly. Given his fame, many people come just to admire it and never set their feet in its black sand. The reason why so many people are attracted here is by the slabs of red and black rock volcanic that are right behind her.
Catat Ulasan