I was just sitting here thinking about some of the more spectacular weddings I have covered in the past, and how excited I am to get out and about again now that travel has opened up and it was about this time of year, several years ago now, I was setting out for Kerri and Tony’s Santorini Wedding.
As far as destination wedding venues go, Santorini and it’s sister islands like Mykonos and Rhodes offer some beautifully stero-typical sights and experiences that just scream oppulence and ‘travel’ in general. It’s not often you can see a picture of the blue-capped churches from any of these places and not think it looks like an awesome place to visit. So I figured I’d put together an article to reminice a bit and perhaps convince you to consider Santorini for your next holiday!
In recent years, Santorini has gained a burgeoning reputation amongst holidaymakers across the globe. Located in the Cyclades group of the Greek Islands, it’s never too far from the top of any list pertaining to the region’s must-see destinations. Whilst it’s gained a reputation primarily as one of the best honeymoon spots, Santorini is far more than just a couple’s retreat. There is something to enjoy for every type of traveller.
Three reasons why you should consider Santorini for your next holiday
It shouldn’t take much convincing to explore this Cycladian jewel. But if you need an extra little nudge in the right direction, here are three reasons why you should consider Santorini for your next holiday.
The sunset
As golden hour arrives, Santorini is transformed by the dying light of the sun as it dips below the Aegean horizon. To get one of the best sunset views in the world, head to the grounds of Oia Castle. You’ll be sure to leave with a breathtaking photo collection of the windmills and blue-domed churches that encapsulate the beauty of the Greek Islands.
On the other side of the camera, however, and what you won’t see on your pictures, are swathes of tourists who had a similar idea in heading to Oia Castle to soak up the last of the day’s rays. People will typically head there long before sunset to secure the best views, so allow plenty of time on your trip to avoid disappointment.
The food and drink
Any visit to Santorini isn’t complete without having sampled the local (and highly recommended) delicacies which headline restaurant menus across the island. Whilst seafood plays a central role in Santorini’s gastronomic scene, the main attractions are grown on land, where the weather conditions and volcanic soil help to produce some truly unique foods. Be sure to try some Santorini tomatoes, which are grown exclusively on the island and hold PDO status. For a true taste of Santorini, try a tomato fritter (tomatokeftedes).
Whilst it can’t claim to rival the global reputation earned by some of its European neighbours, Santorini’s viniculture has been thriving since ancient times, and produces some outstanding wines. Due to the unique makeup of the island’s soil, wines produced in this part of the world have a distinctive taste, and are sure to leave a long-lasting impression.
The location
On top of its natural beauty and allure, Santorini has been blessed with a central location within the Greek Islands. If you can ever peel yourself away from Santorini’s shores, it’s the perfect set-off point for an island-hopping adventure.
Santorini is one of just a handful of Greek Islands to have its own international airport. This makes it a great place to start or end your adventure. Island hopping is the best way to combine the charm of the region’s more popular islands like Santorini and Mykonos with the more authentic, less commercialised places, like Serifos and Folegandros.
What’s more, this part of the world is blessed with sun-filled days and balmy temperatures throughout much of the year, making it perfect for an off-peak trip.
