For as long as I can remember, Greece has been at the top of my travel bucket list. Before the days of Pinterest, I remember flipping through travel magazines captivated by the white cliffside villages that contrasted so picturesquely against the deep blue aegean sea. The winding painted stone streets, climbing bougainvillea and plethora of infinity pools seemed so perfectly idyllic and I promised myself, one way or another, I’d visit someday.
So it’s safe to say my expectations were high for Greece. Quite high.
After a rather difficult and exhausting year, Greece seemed like the perfect place to completely unplug. So A + I decided on two weeks of island hopping for our (belated) anniversary trip. We had collected enough miles to fly into Santorini at no cost (thank you Chase Freedom!). We chose to visit in mid-September when the temperatures were pleasant + the summer crowds were dying down.
We kicked off our trip with three days in Santorini. Santorini, one of the cyclades islands, is known for its incredible views and white villages carved into the red and black cliffs. The islands unique shape and rugged landscape was formed after a volcanic eruption in the 16th century. We chose to stay at Kapari Natural Resort, located in the village of Imerovigli, the highest point of Santorini. Imerovigli is known for having the best sunset views on the island, adult-only boutique hotels built amphitheatrically around the caldera, and quiet winding paths that are carved into the 1,000 foot cliff edge.
My expectations were far exceeded thanks to the impeccable staff at Kapari Natural Resort. From the moment we landed, Kapari thought of everything… our airport transfer, welcome treats + drinks, and assistance in creating the perfect itinerary while on Santorini. Kapari quickly become my favorite hotel to date and I would return in a heartbeat.
We stayed in one of the premium cave rooms which had a lovely view, private balcony and the comfiest bed (much needed after 24+ hours of travel). But the thing I dream of the most (even more than the romantic cave room, stunning infinity pool and unreal architecture) is the breakfast. Truly, you have to stay at Kapari for a night for the breakfast alone. I was never hungry for lunch after our table full of homemade pastries, omelettes, fruits & veggies, meats & cheeses, yogurts, smoothies, juices and coffee.
STAY: Kapari Natural Resort
EAT & DRINK:
Kapari Natural Resort
Grace Hotel
OVAC Cavotagoo Santorini
Avocado
SEE & EXPLORE:
– Wander the beautiful streets of Οία at sunrise to avoid heaps of tourists (don’t miss the views from Οία castle).
– For beautiful views of Imerovigli, walk out to Skaros Rock + don’t miss Ekklisia Theoskepasti Church (you’ll want tennis shoes for this quick hike).
– For a more vigorous hike, you can walk from Fira to Οία (start early so that you avoid mid-day heat).
– Explore the beaches of South Santorini (Red Beach, Mesa Pigadia, Perissa Black Sand Beach). Keep in mind that beach clubs typically charge an admission fee, chair fee + for food. If you don’t have a long time spend there, I’d recommend simply stopping by for a drink or snack.
– Walk the donkey trail from Οία down to Amoudi Bay for a view from below, fresh seafood and maybe a quick swim (but be prepared for crowds & remember, you’ll have to hike back up).
– Try to make outdoor dinner reservations during sunset — you won’t regret it! The village of Imerovigli is a great spot for this as it’s less crowded and gives you the best west facing views.
GETTING AROUND: Hire your hotel’s shuttle to and from the airport/port. Rent an ATV for at least a day or two so that you can explore the island at your own pace (and remember, it’s the law to wear your helmet in Greece!). ATV rentals averaged 20-30 euros per day, and they do require an international driver’s permit (so be sure to pick one up before your trip!).
Mesa Pigadia on the southern tip of Santorini
