Santorini (Thera)

We stayed 4 days in Santorini, partly because we wanted to explore it and partly because of strong northerly winds which would have made sailing uncomfortable.

The harbour at Vlikatha turned out to be excellent. The shelter was good in all directions of wind – including an Easterly which we though would throw in swell - it didn’t. For 20 euros per night, we had water, electricity, fast wifi, showers and very helpful staff. They were able to tell us about busses, arrange car hire, fix problems, arrange fuel delivery etc.
The port is a bit isolated – the bus service is comfortable and cheap but only runs 2 buses a day (10.30 from Vlikatha and starts back from Fira at 1400). If you miss it, a taxi costs 15 euros. However car hire was only 30 euros for 24 hours delivered and retrieved from the quay – and with the least paperwork & hassle I’ve ever seen!


Ios at the far north of the island is like a picture postcard come to life. It has to be seen. Unfortunately, like Fira, it is almost entirely given over to relieving tourists of their money – but in a low key, tastefull sort of way.
I had wanted to get a better idea of the history and geology of the place but they don’t go big on this (not enough money in it I suspect). The Museum was a poor joke. A collection of nice-enough pots but with no explanation or story and the only person to ask being a guard who spoke no English and din’t know much anyway. The digs at ‘Ancient Thera’ and Akrotiri were both shut.


The west side was much less developed with a lot of agriculture particularly vines and figs. We came upon a development that seemed to consist almost entirely of Greek Windmills. We both agreed that if we were ever to settle here, we’d want one!


We left early in the morning and went up close to the new volcano in the centre of the caldera. This consists of two islands separated by a narrow channel – Nea Kameni and Pala Kameni. Both are active, with Nea more so.




To my amazement, there is a small fishing harbour on Pala Kameni.