The prize winning pearl of the Aegean Sea has to be the ancient and incredibly beautiful Santorini. As soon as you sail through the gemstone waters on your luxury superyacht charter you can witness the white washed homes perched on the cliffs topped with teal blue domes and flanked by ebony rolling volcanic rocks. Santorini is a dream come true and a picture straight from the pages of Greek mythology. The rich, evocative scent of fresh olives, sea salt, citrus and wild flowers are their own siren song tempting you onto the island.
Here are a few insider’s tips on how to spend your day ashore in spectacular Santorini.
Explore the small towns
Start your day with a delectable breakfast on board your luxury superyacht before renting a motorcycle and exploring the small towns that populate the coast. One of the most beautiful towns is Oia, the home of the white and blue vision that greets you as you come to shore. With narrow winding streets, cool cave dwelling homes and clusters of seafaring homes, this is one of the most iconic sights you can see on the Greek islands.
Climb thevolcano
Ancient myth can come to life on the shores of Santorini especially in Ancient Thira, said to be the home of the warrior Spartans. Its a short hike up the hill, but the rewards of seeing the Aegean Sea stretch out and imagining the splendor of the ancient world makes it well worth the journey. Afterwards, you can take a boat ride across the shimmering lagoon to the imposing volcano now littered with lavish hot springs for rest and rejuvenation.
Lunch at Selene
The streets of Santorini house a Michelin-starred restaurant of sheer finery. Selene is the perfect place to stop for lunch, and the meze and wine menu will showcase the best of Mediterranean fresh cuisine. Pick your way through lemon scented fava with fried squid, bright green salads, tomato fritters and honey drenched baklavas all paired with the perfect wines.
Shop in style
Take some time out to hit the stores in Santorini and pickup beautifully crafted wares to take back home. Fira offers the most flash for your cash with its bustling market laden with gold, evocative perfumes, silks, exotic art pieces and so much more.
A glass or two
The gods love their wine, and this is why Santorini has several remarkable wineries offering up the golden nectar. Head to the ancient plains of Domaine Sigalas to see the tangled vines and taste the best of Grecian grapes. From historic landmark wines to exceptional, innovative wines, this is a must for any connoisseur.
Dinner at the Red Bicycle
The Red Bicycle offers a charming spot overlooking the flaming sunset to enjoy a fresh and fabulous dinner without the fuss. A beautiful sweeping terrace, locally sourced ingredients and extensive high-quality wine list do the talking and make for a delightful ambience all round. Taste the tradition infused with modernity as you sample sushi dolmades wrapped in vine-leaves, Cuttlefish risotto in its ink and orange zest and Mille-feuille with masticha cream and grilled apricots.
