The Akrotiri Lighthouse is among the oldest lighthouses in Greece and was constructed way back in 1892. It stands like a sentinel towards the on the southern peninsula of Santorini island. The lighthouse of Akrotiri is conspicuous by its square-shaped tower that looms above 10 meters from the lighthouse warden's house.
Wine has been produced in Santorini since ancient times, and being one of the only wine regions to escape the grape phylloxera makes Santorini the oldest wine region in the world. Most visitors to the island rush to Oia, sitting on the far north end of the island, for sunset. But situated high on the cliff on the outskirts of the Pyrgos village, Santo Wines Winery is practically in the very center of the island and has an amazing terrace with a perfect view of the caldera.
In the village of Akrotiri, on the south-west coast of Santorini, 14 kilometers away from Fira you can find one of the most remarkable and distinctive beaches. Its name reveals the spectacle you face when you get there. It is white pebbled surrounded by white towering cliffs that form a beautiful, small cove and provide partial shade. This tiny beach is also composed of pumice stones and gray volcanic sand and pebbles, like the rest of the beaches in Santorini. The waters, of course, are inviting and crystal clear.
Does jumping into crystal clear Mediterranean waters surrounded by the striking cliff faces of Santorini sound like your cup of tea? Well then you must check out this incredible swimming spot at Amoudi Bay. You can swim straight off the rocks, or if you are up to the game, climb up the stairs of the massive boulder in the water and do your best dive in!
Firá is the modern capital of the Greek Aegean island of Santorini. A traditional settlement, "Firá" derives its name from an alternative pronunciation of "Thíra", the ancient name of the island itself. Fira is a city of white-washed houses built on the edge of the 400 meters (1,312 feet) high caldera on the western edge of the semi-circular island of Thera.
The small village of Exo Gonia lies at the southeastern side of Santorini, close to Pyrgos village, almost 8 kilometers away from the capital Fira. It overlooks green valleys, the open sea, Kamari village and the imposing Mesa Vouno Mountain.
Skaros is a rocky headland that protrudes out to the azure blue Aegean Sea. In the earlier days, a majestic castle was located here and used to be the principal place of the Christian congregation in Santorini till the beginning of the 1800s. Unfortunately, the castle was completely ruined during an earthquake in the 19th century and all that remains today are remnants of the fort. Legend has it that the medieval castle of Skaros, was never conquered during its long 600 years of existence.
The Red Sand Beach in Santorini is located next to the ancient site of Akrotiri. This small beach features varying shades of red that can easily be seen from the headlands if you decide to not take the rocky path along the mountain to reach the beachfront. Located less than a mile southwest of Ancient Akrotiri, this beach earns its name from its towering red cliffs and dark sand. Travelers say the scenery is stunning: be sure to bring a camera to take photos of the stark contrast between the brick red cliffs and the aquamarine water. Hike to the beach (with the proper footwear) to get an alternative look at its incredibly unique geography.